recursal/Fanatic-Fandom huggingface dataset:
DuBois: Portrait of a Politician

**"DuBois: Portrait of a Politician"** aka **"The Portrait"** is the twenty-first episode of the sixth season, and one hundred and thirty-third episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by Rob Dames, the episode originally aired on March 15th, 1985.

## Synopsis

While Gatling is away, Benson, as acting governor, vetoes a bill previously promised a signing by the Governor.

## Trivia

* According to official production codes, this episode was the final episode produced of Season 6.

## Cultural References

* Clayton mentions painters, Gilbert Stuart, Andy Warhol, and LeRoy Neiman when discussing Two Horses' portrait of Benson.

## Quotes

* **Clayton:** I think I should point out to you the stupidity of this action.
* **Benson:** And I think I should point out to you that there is nothing lonelier than an unemployed yuppie.

* **Benson:** Don't come and stand in my doorway and treat me like I'm not even here. I am the lieutenant governor and I'm due some respect.
* **Clayton:** I tried to tell him that.
* **Governor:** Clayton, you picked a very poor time to get on Benson's side. If I were you, I'd keep my opinions to myself.
* **Benson:** Oh, now we have to clear our opinions through you as well?
* **Kraus:** Well, after all, he is your boss.
* **Benson:** And I, mama, am your boss!
The Endicott Dynasty

**"The Endicott Dynasty"** is the twentieth episode of the fifth season, and one hundred and tenth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by Bill Foster, the episode originally aired on March 2nd, 1984.

## Synopsis

Clayton is left unemployed when his father, Whitey Endicott (played by Stephen Elliott) chooses Benson as the successor of Endicott Industries.

## Trivia

* This episode marks the first appearance of Clayton's father, Whitey Endicott.
* Billie Bird makes her debut on the series as Clayton's mother in this episode.

## Cultural References

* Mrs. Endicott mentions *Moses*.
* The Governor mentions Vince Lombardi and his "When the going get's tough" quote.

## Quotes

* **Clayton:** I have decided to resign.
* **Benson:** There is a God!

* **Pete:** Sir, I would make a great chief of staff.
* **Governor:** Oh, Pete. You don't know anything about Clayton's job.
* **Pete:** I know it pays more money.

* **Whitey:** Now, don't call me "Mr. Endicott". Sounds like my father is in the room. \*laughs\* Just call me Whitey.
* **Benson:** Call you Whitey, hm? To your face?

* **Clayton:** Oh, Mother. Where have you been?
* **Mrs. Endicott:** I don't know. I don't live around here.

* **Whitey:** This country has changed a lot since I was a kid.
* **Benson:** Yeah, Whitey. It sure has.

* **Whitey:** I intend to give you a Vice President spot.
* **Mrs. Endicott:** There, see, Skippy? Daddy didn't forget you.
* **Clayton:** Vice President? I should be chief executive officer.
* **Mrs. Endicott:** Oh, \*laughs\* don't be silly, Skippy. We'd never get it passed the board of directors.
* **Whitey:** Hell. We'd never get it passed the personnel department.

* **Clayton:** I can't.. I can't do it. I said terrible things to him. I said terrible things to all of you.
* **Benson:** Well, he knows that. I mean you've said terrible things to everybody. Let's face it, you're not a nice person.
In the Red

**"In the Red"** is the eighteenth episode of the third season, and sixty-forth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson.*

Directed by John Rich, the episode originally aired on March 26th, 1982.

## Synopsis

Benson has his tax records stolen just days before his audit with the IRS.

Meanwhile, the staff suspects that the Governor and Denise are getting married.

## Cultural References

* Pete invites Denise to a Doug McClure film festival
* Benson mentions NASA.

## Quotes

* **Denise:** Why don't you call the IRS and get on their case?
* **Benson:** For the same reasons I don't date married women. It may seem like a good idea at the time, but eventually you pay for it.

* **Clayton:** Benson, when you break your arm, what do you do?
* **Benson:** Cry out in pain. What do you do?
* **Clayton:** What any intelligent man does. I go to the doctor. And When your transmission breaks down, what do you do?
* **Benson:** What any intelligent man does. I swear at the car.

* **Clayton:** I don't know why you're so upset? The IRS will understand.
* **Benson:** Yeah, and the KKK is starting an affirmative action program.
The Bookburner

**"The Bookburner"** is the twenty-third episode of the sixth season, and one hundred and thirty-fifth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by Gary Brown, the episode originally aired on March 29th, 1985.

## Synopsis

Benson's tie-breaking vote on a school bill leads to major backlash from a powerful senator, eventually winding up a book-burning.

## Trivia

* Senator Jenkins was played by Richard McKenzie who portrayed a Doctor on Seasons 3-4 of the parent series, *Soap.*
* Marjorie Manning, the reporter, was played by Ann Ryerson, who played Katie in *Friday the 13th Part VI.* She also portrayed Nan Funkhouser on the Larry David sitcom, *Curb Your Enthusiasm*.
* When Benson asks the audience if they also find certain things objectionable, a man can clearly be heard shouting "The dictionary".

## Cultural References

* The episode's premise revolves around the controversy of book censorship.
* Benson refers to the staff as the Stooges' back up band when everybody accidentally clashes into each other.
* The Governor, Benson, and Kraus mention the books *Catch 22, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn*, and *Little Women* as books that were at stake of being banned.
* Benson refers to Clayton as George Gipp the "gipper".
* Authors, Mark Twain, James Baldwin, and Kurt Vonnegut are mentioned on the telecast.
* Mrs. Cassidy watches a program titled "The Edge of Our Lives", a titular parody of the soap opera, "The Days of Our Lives".
* Marjorie Manning states that she objects to TV show "where the women just run and bounce". This is in reference to "Jiggle TV", most commonly in reference to late 70's programming such as *Charlie's Angels*, *Wonder Woman* and *Three's Company*.
	+ While not considered "Jiggle TV", *Benson's* parent series, *Soap*, carries a notable legacy of groundbreaking sexual depictions in American television.

## Quotes

* **Benson:** I'm gonna do the right thing.
* **Clayton:** I'd think twice before doing the right thing.
* **Benson:** Too bad your parents didn't think twice.

* **Governor:** Honey, let me ask you a question. Are there any books in your school library that anybody could find, mm, I don't know, dirty?
* **Katie:** No way. If there were dirty books in the library, boys would get library cards.

* **Governor:** Revenge is never the answer to anything.
* **Clayton:** No, no. Unless you can do it without getting caught.
The Lumber Mill (Episode)

**"The Lumber Mill"** is the twenty-first episode of the third season, and sixty-seventh episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson.*

Directed by John Rich, the episode originally aired on May 7th, 1982.

## Synopsis

After the political party revokes support for the Gatling administration, The Governor takes the staff with him to The Lumber Mill out of desperation.

Meanwhile, after a discussion with Mountain Man (played by Robert Symonds), Benson talks with The Governor and encourages him to run for re-election as an independent candidate.

## Trivia

* This episode marks the second time the staff has visited a cabin; the first being in the Season 1 episode, "Snowbound".

## Cultural References

* Benson mentions the aircraft, *The Spirit of St. Louis.*
* The Governor refers to *Mountain Man* as a 'local Paul Bunyan'.

## Quotes

* **Governor:** You're gonna love Mountain Man, he's a legend around here; sort of a local Paul Bunyan. Folks say he can out climb a polecat, stare down a Moose, and wrestle a Bear!
* **Benson:** He must have an interesting social life.

* **Kraus:** Mountain Man is teaching me ways to add variety to our menu.
* **Mountain Man:** Yeah, Rabbit, Deer, Moose, Possum.
* **Benson:** That's not a menu, that's a Disney movie.
Season 5 (1983 -1984)

**Season 5** of the ABC sitcom, *Benson,* serves an introduction to the recurring characters, Senator Tyler and Whitey Endicott.

The season premiered on September 16th, 1983 on ABC and was directed by Bill Foster, Gary Brown, and Katherine Helmond.

## About Season 5

Season 5 of *Benson* takes place during Benson's term as state budget director, the Governor's second term in office, and puts a focus on the work lives, and personal lives, of the Governor's staff at the Governor's Mansion. The season opens up with the marriage of press secretary, Pete Downey and Benson's secretary, Denise Stevens. The two would also have a baby later throughout the season. The season would also feature the first appearance of one of the administration's snobbiest rivals, Senator Leonard Tyler. The first appearance of actress/comedian, Billie Bird, is also met this season.

Season 5 also features a continuation of the parent show *Soap,* which ended three years prior, and features the final arrival of Benson's former boss, and Governor Gatling's cousin, Jessica Tate.

### Notes:

* Winifred Hervey, Bill Boulware, and Barry Fanaro & Mort Nathan would join the writing team this season.

## Accolades

The episodes, "Down the Drain" and "The Governor's Brain is Missing" were both nominated at the Primetime Emmy Awards of 1984, with the former receiving two nominations.

Robert Guillaume was nominated for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series at the 1984 Primetime Emmy Awards this season. He would also be nominated for Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series - Comedy or Musical at the 1984 Golden Globes.

René Auberjonois would also be nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series at the 1984 Emmy Awards this season.

Missy Gold would win a Young Artist Award for best actress in a Comedy Series this season.

## Home Media

The season was made available in master quality through Roku in 2020.
Liz Burnett

Dr. Elizabeth

**Liz 'Elizabeth' Burnett** (played by Jayne Kennedy) is a recurring character from Seasons 6-7 on the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

## About Elizabeth

Elizabeth worked as a Doctor. She was married to Mark Burnett until the two divorced sometime between 1984-1986.

### Relationships

Liz would date the state budget director, Benson DuBois after filling in for his doctor during a physical. The two would stop dating due to her marriage at the time.

Liz would meet, and date, Governor Eugene Gatling following a personal ad placed by her in the single's magazine '*Hi There'*.

## Trivia

* Elizabeth was also a surgeon.
* Benson having an infatuation with actress Jayne Kennedy is ironically a running gag in the series.

## Appearances

* "Let's Get Physical"
* "Three on a Mismatch"

## Quotes

* "You know, you can't find anything decent anymore."
* "Life is just too damn short!"
In the Still of the Night

"**In the Still of the Night**" is a popular song written by Cole Porter for the MGM film *Rosalie* sung by Nelson Eddy and published in 1937.

The song would be performed by Inga Swenson, as Gretchen Kraus, on the ABC sitcom, *Benson*, for the Season 4 episode, "Kraus Sings the Blues".

## Lyrics

In the still of the night

As I gaze from my window

At the moon in its flight

My thoughts all stray to you

In the still of the night

All the world is in slumber

All the times without number

Darling when I say to you

Do you love me, as I love you

Are you my life to be, my dream come true

Or will this dream of mine fade out of sight

Like the moon growing dim, on the rim of the hill

In the chill, still, of the night

Like the moon growing dim, on the rim of the hill

In the chill, still, of the night
Clayton's Condo

**"Clayton's Condo"** is the fifteenth episode of the third season, and sixty-first episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by John Rich, the episode originally aired on March 5th, 1982.

## Synopsis

When Benson has to ask the landlord of his apartment to make repairs, he finds out that Clayton is the owner of the building and has trouble getting him to make renovations.

Meanwhile, Katie wants to keep the local libraries open on Saturdays, and decides to get involved.

## Cultural References

* The Governor mentions the New York Yankees.
* When the staff plays charades, they mention the following; *One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde,* and *Jean Harlow.*

## Quotes

* **Katie:** You know, it's not easy being a concerned citizen.
* **Benson:** That's why there's so few of them.

* **Katie:** Can you think of any place I can go where there are a lot of people?
* **Benson:** Try the unemployment office.

* **Clayton:** I came to congratulate you on your victory in court and to post this notice.
* **Benson:** Notice of conversion? What does this mean? You're a born again landlord?
Sweet Irish Rose

**"Sweet Irish Rose"** is the twelfth episode of the third season and fifty-eighth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom. *Benson.*

Directed by John Rich, the episode originally aired on February 12th, 1982.

## Synopsis

Former Governor Mulligan pays his successor a visit, bringing his attractive niece, Rose Sullivan (played by Fionnula Flanagan*)*. Governor Gatling is taken with her beauty and falls in love with her.

Meanwhile, Benson struggles with the Census Bureau's loss of a quarter million people.

## Trivia

* It's revealed that the state has a Springfield city. According to Benson, it's one of the biggest cities in the state.

## Cultural References

* Benson mentions Mummar Gaddafi.
* Benson suggests that Gene should watch *The Love Boat* if he can't ask out Rose.
* Benson makes a reference to the game show, *Name That Tune*, when he states that he can "name that tune in three notes."
* The Governor sings the popular song, "I Can't Stop Loving You" at the end of the episode.

## Quotes

* **Governor:** She said I was adorable, now no one ever told me that!
* **Benson:** Adorable people are always the last to find out.

* **Pete:** The voters will eat this up. The Governor dates a beautiful woman. They fall in love and get married. I wonder what the chances are we could get her pregnant by election day?
* **Benson:** We?

* **Governor:** When you're falling in love, you never stop to think that you might end up with a broken heart.
* **Benson:** You do if you listen to country music.
Senator Hartford

**Senator Diane Hartford** (played by Donna LaBrie) is a state senator on the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

## About Diane

### Career in the State Senate

Hartford would initially vote against Clayton Endicott's *Endicott Commercial Act* in 1985. She would appose the bill due to her vocal advocacy towards conservation and natural resources within the state, and wasn't too fond of the commercial development for the state parks. Hartford would later change her mind on the bill before abstaining from the vote. The bill would eventually pass.

### Personal Life

It would be reported by the weekend weatherman, Larry Fishfeld, that Diane was dating the Lieutenant Governor, Benson DuBois, after he ran into the two at a restaurant. Hartford would later get engaged to DuBois in 1985; later managing his campaign for Governor in 1986 over the two term incumbent, Gene Gatling.

## Trivia

* Diane can make sweet potato pie from scratch; dubbing her sweet potato pie as "the best".

## Appearances

* "Love and Politics"
* "The Hat and the Ring"
* "Friends and Enemies"
* "And the Winner Is..."
We Deliver

**"We Deliver"** is the nineteenth episode of the fifth season, and one hundred and ninth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by Bill Foster, the episode originally aired on February 24th, 1984.

## Synopsis

When Denise is about to give birth, she gets trapped in a broken elevator with Benson and The Governor.

## Trivia

* The episode was mentioned in the April 4th, 1998, *Saturday Night Live* episode during the *Morning Latte* skit, which featured Didi Conn.
* The Nun was played by Anne Haney, who was well known for portraying Mrs. Sellner in the 1993 film, *Mrs. Doubtfire.* She would also make a guest appearance on *Star Trek: Deep Space Nine*, a series that Rene Auberjonois starred in.

## Goofs

* The episode features an inconsistency with The Governor stating that he's never delivered a baby, only a couple of puppies. This contradicts the Season 1 episode, "Snowbound" however, where The Governor not only stated that he's only delivered a few pigs, but actually delivers a baby when a laboring woman enters into the cabin while snowed in.

## Cultural References

* The Nun asks is she's "Sister Goodwrench" in reference to the Mr. Goodwrench character campaign for GM Autoparts in the late 70's.

## Quotes

* **Nun:** We've located Dr. Kenderly. He'll be with us in about 30 minutes.
* **Denise:** 30 Minutes?
* **Benson:** The kid will be in college by then.

* **Clayton:** When I called the Mansion, they told me the governor had been rushed to the hospital.
* **Kraus:** No, no, no. Denise went into labor.
* **Clayton:** You mean the governor's not here?
* **Kraus:** Well, yeah he's here, but he's stuck in the elevator with Denise and Benson.
* **Katie:** And Pete's stuck in the other elevator.
* **Clayton:** That's it?
* **Kraus:** Isn't that enough?
* **Clayton:** On the verge of victory. I left the match for nothing. This really ruins my day.
* **Katie:** You know something, Clayton. Nobody cares.

* **Benson:** Denise. Pete says good luck and he loves you.
* **Denise:** Oh, tell him he's the most wonderful thing that's ever happened to me.
* **Benson:** \*mumbles\* She's delirious. \*Into phone\* She says that you're the most wonderful thing that's ever happened to her.
* **Denise:** And I wish he was here.
* **Benson:** And she wishes you were here.
* **Denise:** So I could kiss his cute little bunny wabbit face.
* **Benson:** She says thanks so much for calling. Goodbye and good riddance.
Citizen Kraus

"**Citizen Kraus**" is the sixth episode of the second season, and thirtieth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

The episode originally aired on December 12th, 1980, and was directed by John Rich.

## Synopsis

Kraus decides to become a US Citizen, but faces difficulty when she struggles to pass the immigration test.

## Trivia

* This episode marks the first time Gretchen's middle name, Willomena, is revealed.

## Cultural References

* Benson references the, then recent Sci-Fi film, *Aliens.*
* Inside the Governor's word association trick to remembering the fourth President, he mentions actress and singer *Barbara Streisand* and the musical romance film, *"Hello, Dolly!".*

## Quotes

* **Clayton:** Busy day, Marcy! Attorney General Prime just called, he's had to resign for reasons of health.
* **Benson:** Reasons of health? It says here he's been indicted.
* **Clayton:** Yes, and he's sick about it.

* **Benson:** You're a good messenger and a nice kid. I like everything about you, except your jokes.
* **Frankie:** But they're funny!
* **Benson:** They're not funny, Frankie. The Governor is not going to hire you, he does not need jokes in his speeches, his speeches are jokes.

* **Kraus:** I am in the August of my life. Soon will come September and I will have to gather up the nuts for winter. You know what I'm saying?
* **Benson:** Do you?

* **Katie:** Daddy, what does it mean to be naturalized anyway?
* **Governor:** Well you know how in some places the hamburgers aren't all meat, but they still call them hamburgers?
* **Benson:** Can't wait to hear the end of this one.

* **Kraus:** You want me to become a Citizen? Why?
* **Benson:** Well because Kraus, you're worthless the way you are. Good lord woman! One minute you're saying don't give up the ship, the next minute you're taking one to Germany, I just want to know, one way the other, tell me where you want me to stand; at the immigration office or down at the dock?
* **Kraus:** At the immigration office!
* **Benson:** Damnit!

* **Mr. Pruitt:** To become a citizen a person must be of good moral character. To your knowledge, is the petitioner a habitual drunker, an adulterer, a polygamistic gambler, a perjurer, a convict, or a murderer?
* **Benson:** Not to my knowledge, but then what Kraus does on the weekends is her business.
Stephen Elliott

New York City, U.S.

**Elliott Pershing Stitzel** (November 27, 1918 – May 21, 2005), better known by his stage name **Stephen Elliott**, was an American actor who portrayed the father of Clayton Endicott, Whitey Endicott, through Seasons 5-7 of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

His best known roles were that of the prospective father-in-law, Burt Johnson, in the hit 1981 film *Arthur* and as Chief Hubbard in the 1984 blockbuster *Beverly Hills Cop*.

## Personal life

Elliott was born Elliott Pershing Stitzel in New York City. His marriage to Barbara Blaise was terminated by divorce in February 1947, according to The Kingston Daily Freeman (Kingston, NY), 4 October 1947, page 3. He married stage actress Nancy Chase on 9 October 1947 (Billboard, 18 October 1947, p. 47) and divorced in 1960. They had two children, Jency and Jon. He married his third wife, actress Alice Hirson, whom he met on Broadway in 1964; they were not married until 1980. He died in 2005 in Woodland Hills, California as result of congestive heart failure. Both Elliott and Hirson appeared in recurring roles on the television series *Dallas*.

## External links

* https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stephen\_Elliott\_(actor)
O Holy Night

"**O Holy Night**" (also known as "Cantique de Noël") is a well-known Christmas carol. Originally based on a French-language poem by poet Placide Cappeau, written in 1843, with the first line "Minuit, chrétiens! c'est l'heure solennelle" (Midnight, Christians, is the solemn hour) that composer Adolphe Adam set to music in 1847. The English version is by John Sullivan Dwight. The carol reflects on the birth of Jesus as humanity's redemption.

The carol was performed by Robert Guillaume as Benson DuBois on the ABC sitcom, *Benson*, in the Season 4 Christmas themed episode, "Mary and Her Lambs".

## Lyrics

O holy night, the stars are brightly shining

It is the night of our dear Savior's birth

Long lay the world in sin and ever pining

'Til he appeared and the soul felt its worth

A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices

For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn'

Fall on your knees, o hear the angels' voices

O night divine, o night when Christ was born

O night divine, o night, o night divine

Chains shall He break for the slave is our brother

And in His name all oppression shall cease

Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we

With all within, let us praise His holy name

Christ is the Lord, His Name forever praise we

Noel, Noel, o night, o night divine

Noel, noel

O night, o holy night
Trust Me

**"Trust Me"** is the second episode of the first season, and second episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

The episode originally aired on September 20th, 1979, and was directed by Peter Baldwin.

## Synopsis

Benson relaxes his authority with young Katie for a brief moment, but the staff spends a long evening of regret and worry when Katie attends a *KISS* concert by deceit.

Meanwhile, Marcy is trying to rekindle a relationship with a Highschool classmate.

## Trivia

* This episode marks the first usage of the regular opening sequence that would be used for the rest of the season.
* The episode was the second episode to air, but the fourth episode filmed of the series.
* This episode marks the first appearance of Lewis J. Stadlen as Taylor.
* Raul and Captain Bates make their first appearance.
* The last line in the episode, prior to the tag scene, is "Trust me".

## Cultural References

* The rock band, *KISS,* is a crucial plot point to the episode, with the Governor calling them "bizarre".
* The song Marcy performs when she comes into the kitchen is "A Wonderful Guy", a show tune from the 1949 Rodgers and Hammerstein musical *South Pacific,* as referenced by Benson shortly after.
* Benson and Marcy recite a Catholic Prayer when they become desperate for the situation to be resolved.
* When The Governor returns to The Mansion, and agrees to take Katie to the KISS concert, he says, "If Jerry Brown can stand that stuff, then so can I". Jerry Brown was the governor of California from 1975 to 1983 and 2011 to 2019.

## Quotes

* **Katie:** Go ahead, Benson. Tell him it's okay.
* **Benson:** No, I don't wanna get in the middle of this.
* **Governor:** Benson, what would you do in my position?
* **Benson:** Resign.

* **Governor:** I'm off.
* **Benson:** I'll Say.

* **Benson:** You don't know? Raul, are you telling me the truth?
* **Raul:** How dare you to question my honesty? In Cuba I could have you shot for that!
* **Kraus:** Find the child first, then we reminisce.

* **Benson:** Ms**.** Kraus, if you weren't a woman I'd-
* **Kraus:** Take your best shot! And then I'll take mine.

* **Raul:** Believe me, Benson, I tried everything I could think of.
* **Marcy:** He certainly did. That's the last time I ride in front with you, Raul.

* **\*phone rings\***
* **Marcy:** \*picks up\* Hello.
* **Governor:** Hi, Marcy, guess who?
* **Marcy:** \*moves phone away whispering\* It's the governor. \*hands phone to Benson\*
* **Benson:** Hello Governor, this is Benson.
* **Governor:** Oh, I'm sorry, for a second you sounded like Marcy.
* **Benson:** What's on your mind, Governor?
* **Governor:** Oh, nothing much.
* **Benson:** Uh huh.
All Shook Up

**"All Shook Up"** is the twenty-first episode of the second season, and forty-fifth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by John Rich, the episode originally aired on May 15th, 1981.

## Synopsis

While Benson and Clayton search for something in the storage room, an earthquake occurs in the area and the Governor, McDermott, and the staff work to rescue the two.

## Trivia

* It is revealed in this episode that the show takes place in a state where earthquakes occur. According to the Governor, they occur every 20 years.
* It's revealed that Clayton has a brother named Darwin. It's also revealed he went to Princeton.

## Cultural References

* Kraus mentions Polaroids.
* Benson mentions OJ Simpson.
* Benson and Clayton sing "*I'm Gonna Sit Right Down and Write Myself a Letter*", a 1935 song by Fred Ahlert, popularized by Fats Waller.
* Pete, while on the phone regarding England, asks what the caller thinks of the "chick the Prince is marrying." The Prince in question, was Charles, Prince of Wales, and the "chick" in question, was Lady Diana Spencer; better known later on globally as Diana, Princess of Wales.
* Captain McDermott mentions Charles Heston.
* Clayton mentions the university, Princeton.

## Quotes

* **Benson:** You're the one who wanted the paperclips.
* **Clayton:** No, I wanted staples. I am settling for paperclips.
* **Benson:** Listen Clayton, I know things get tough around here, and you are under a lot of pressure. So if you ever need a friend, buy a dog.

* **Kraus:** Why did we have to hide under the table?
* **Katie:** So nothing would fall on us.
* **Kraus:** The table could fall on us.

* **Captain McDermott:** You'll have telephones very shortly, sir. I contacted my brother-in-law over at the phone company. He doesn't like me, but he's afraid of me.

* **Benson:** Clayton, things are bad enough without you falling apart.
* **Clayton:** I am not falling apart, I'm just handling it badly.
Let's Play Doctor

**"Let's Play Doctor"** is the twenty-second episode of the fifth season, and one hundred and twelfth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*. The episode serves as the season finale for Season 5 of the series and was directed by Gary Brown.

The episode originally aired on May 4th, 1984.

## Synopsis

When Benson nominates an inner city doctor, Albert Bryer (played by Danny Thomas) for the Governor's Humanitarian Award, he discovers that the practitioner doesn't have a medical license.

## Trivia

* This episode marks the second, and final, guest appearance of entertainer, and showrunner's father, Danny Thomas.

## Cultural References

* Kraus mentions actor Burt Reynolds.
* Dr. Bryer refers to himself as King Midas, of the Greek Mythology.
* Benson mentions the plumbing company, Roto-Rooter.
* Pete mentions Zorro.
* Benson mentions the Gerber Baby

## Quotes

* **Pete:** I'll tell you one thing you don't think about when you get married, Benson, women have parents.
* **Benson:** Another amazing fact from professor, Pete Downey.

* **Clayton:** Why on Earth would you want to nominate a total stranger?
* **Benson:** Well, I was going to nominate you. But why would I want to nominate a total idiot?

* **Clayton:** Governor, I still think my nominee is the best choice.
* **Governor:** Clayton, your nominee was just caught accepting a bribe.
* **Clayton:** Sir, that was thrown out of court.

* **Benson:** You know, for a humanitarian, you're not a very nice guy.
* **Dr. Bryer:** Good. I hope that means I'm disqualified.

* **Benson:** Dr. Bryer, I happen to be one of those people who believes that the people should know about the good work you're doing here for the poor.
* **Dr. Bryer:** The people should know? Let me tell you a little secret. Poverty doesn't need publicity. People have heard about it. Matter of fact, they detour around this part of town so they don't have to see it.

* **Benson:** He may be in jail, but he's still a humanitarian.
* **Governor:** That's a very good point.
* **Pete:** Yeah. Look at Zorro. You know, he was a good guy and they kept putting him in jail.
* **Governor:** ...You know Pete makes good sense.
* **Benson:** He does?
* **Governor:** Yeah. You may have disagreed with Zorro's methods, but you always knew he was doing it for the good of the people in the village.
* **Benson:** \*sighs\*

* **Benson:** I was wondering if there was anything the medical community could do to help him.
* **Dr. Leonard:** Gee, I don't think so.
* **Benson:** Well, you're kidding aren't you?
* **Dr. Leonard:** No. I respect the man's intentions, but officially we consider what he did very naughty.
Katie's Romance

**"Katie's Romance"** is the fourteenth episode of the third season, and sixtieth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by Linda Day, the episode originally aired on February 26th, 1982.

## Synopsis

Katie starts to have romantic feelings for Pete after he accompanies her to a gymnastics meet.

Meanwhile, the party decides to give the Governor an image makeover due to the latest polls, but the PR Man, Jerry Ziegler (played by Barry Pearl), gets on the staff's last nerves, and Kraus deals with the dilemmas of her boyfriend's play.

## Trivia

* This episode marks the second, and final writing credit for actor and writer, David Langston Smyrl.
* Denise Stevens (played by Didi Conn) and Jerry Ziegler (played by guest star Barry Pearl) played girlfriend and boyfriend Frenchie and Doody, in the film *Grease* (1978).
* Katie states the guys from *Wide World of Sports* kept buying her and Pete stuff and charging it to *ABC;* a tongue in cheek reference to both of the show's network.
* The Governor states that the last time the state had a pirate for governor was 1972.
* This is only episode of Season 3 to not be directed by John Rich.

## Cultural References

* It's stated that Kraus' boyfriend, Arnold, participates in the theatrical play, *Oklahoma!,* as Curly, while Denise's mother plays as Laurey; playing a significant part of the sub plots.
* Benson mentions the African American magazine, *Ebony,* when Ziegler makes a comment regarding Benson's hair. The magazine often specialized in African American fashion and beauty, as well as AA Culture.
* Benson states that Ziegler is selling the Governor through a *Gaines Burger* box.
* Katie mentions *Wide World of Sports*.
* Benson says the Governor's *Gatling For Governor* campaign poster looks like actor and singer, *Wayne Newton.*
* Benson mentions actress, *Bo Derek*.

## Quotes

* **Pete:** Benson, what is it that goes on between me and women?
* **Benson:** Very little.

* **Jerry Ziegler:** Call me Jerry. Mr. Ziegler is my father.
* **Benson:** Does he know you're this far from home?

* **Benson:** What does goat taste like?
* **Kraus:** You ever have llama?
* **Benson:** I've had lima beans.

* **Pete:** Doesn't anyone knock around here?
* **Kraus:** This is the kitchen.

* **Benson:** Katie thinks you're loyal, friendly and kind.
* **Pete:** Yeah, but the truth is I'm sloppy, lazy, boring.
* **Benson:** Exactly.

* **Pete:** That's all I do on the weekends. Lay in my underwear and watch football.
* **Benson:** Doesn't that upset the other patrons at the bar?

## External Links

* https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0521538/?ref\_=ttep\_ep14
The Kraus Affair

**"The Kraus Affair"** is the seventeenth episode of the first season, and seventeenth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by Tony Mordente, the episode originally aired January 31st, 1980.

## Synopsis

Kraus has a crush on the butcher, Larry Watkins, and Marcy and Benson help Kraus catch his eye.

## Trivia

* This episode features the first time Kraus would use the catchphrase, "Hot damn!".

## Cultural References

* Marcy mentions Geppetto from Pinocchio.
* The staff performs a Waltz to *The* *Blue Danube Waltz*.

## Quotes

* **Kraus:** Why should I be upset? Just because I made a fool of myself?
* **Benson:** That's a pretty good reason.

* **Benson:** I thought your date had the flu?
* **Kraus:** No, he's fine.
* **Benson:** No he isn't.
* **Kraus:** I just talked to him yesterday and he's fine.
* **Benson:** Well I talked to him last night and he died.

* **Governor:** Benson, I know women. I used to be married to one.

* **Kraus:** Oh Benson, you don't know what it's like to be different.
* **Benson:** I think I might have some idea.
Teed Off

**"Teed Off"** is the nineteenth episode of the third season, and sixty-fifth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson.*

Directed by John Rich, the episode originally aired on April 2nd, 1982.

## Synopsis

When the Governor and his team mates attend a charity golf event, It turns into a big competition between Benson, the Governor, Clayton, and Pete.

Meanwhile, Kraus is being nominated for Capital City's queen of the bowling league.

## Trivia

* Denise states that she went to Piscataway High School, which is located in New Jersey in real life.
* The Governor states that you can hit golf balls further is you freeze them. There is in fact, some truth to this statement, as golf balls become firmer when frozen, however, the difference is not drastic.

## Cultural References

* The episode's premise revolves around the Scotland originated sport, Golf.
* Benson mentions *Lee Trevino* and *Lee Elder*, when discussing golfers who learned as Caddy's.

## Quotes

* **Pete:** Heh, you play golf?
* **Benson:** Pete, what are you talking about? Some of the best golfers in the world are b-budget directors.

* **Governor:** Uh, Pete, maybe I better drive.
* **Pete:** Why? I missed the chicken?
* **Governor:** Yeah, but not by much.
* **Pete:** It's not my fault. What was the dumb chicken doing running across the fairway?
* **Governor:** I expect it was trying to get to the other side.

* **Governor:** \*Kicks ball into the forest\*
* **Clayton:** Sir, that's cheating!
* **Benson:** Oh, like when you kicked Pete's ball into the woods?
* **Pete:** Clayton, you did that? Well, you told me a squirrel carried it off into the woods.
Paul Junger Witt

Susan Harris ​(m. 1983)

**Paul Junger Witt** (March 20, 1941 – April 27, 2018) was an American film and television producer. He, with his partners Tony Thomas and Susan Harris (also his wife), produced television shows as *Here Come the Brides*, *The Partridge Family*, *The Golden Girls*, *Soap*, *Benson*, *It's a Living*, *Empty Nest*, and *Blossom*. The majority of their shows have been produced by their company, Witt/Thomas Productions (alternately Witt/Thomas/Harris Productions), founded in 1975. Witt also produced the films *Dead Poets Society*, *Three Kings*, *Insomnia*, and the made-for-TV movie *Brian's Song*. He was a graduate of the University of Virginia.

## Personal life

Witt married Ann McLaughlin with whom he had 3 children, Christopher, Anthony, and Genevieve. After their divorce, he married Susan Harris on September 18, 1983.

## Death

Witt died of cancer in Los Angeles on April 27, 2018, at age 77.
The Royal Painting

**"The Royal Painting"** is the fifteenth episode of the fourth season, and eighty-third episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by Bill Foster, the episode originally aired January 28th, 1983.

## Synopsis

In preparation for the Queen of England's visit to the Governor's Mansion, Kraus hires the Hornets, a former street gang, to re-paint the Mansion. Things come to a halt however, when the Hornets begin having conflicts with one another.

## Trivia

* This episode marks the second, and last, appearance of the Hornets.
* The episode makes callbacks to the Season 3 episode, "Street Gangs".
* State visits made by Queen Elizabeth II were between the time frame of February 26th - March 6th, of 1983. She visited San Diego, Palm Springs, Los Angeles, Sierra Madre, Duarte, Santa Barbara, San Francisco, Sacramento, Stanford, Palo Alto, Yosemite, Seattle of the United States under President Reagan.

## Cultural References

* The referred to, Queen of England, was unmistakably, Queen Elizabeth II, as mentioned in the beginning of the episode.
* Kraus mentions Pluto, the pet of Mickey Mouse.
* Katie and Calvin exchange in, then, modern slang.
* Kraus states that Benson is trying to 'win a Nobel Peace Prize'.
* Benson refers to Kraus as *Norma Rae.*
* the Hornets rap while painting the Mansion.

## Quotes

* **Governor:** Oh, Ms. Kraus, must you do that here?
* **Kraus:** Well Governor, this is the kitchen. Where else am I supposed to bake cookies?
* **Benson:** Try the disease control center.

* **Clayton***:* Congratulations, Peter. You bring a new meaning to the phrase Ugly American.
* **Governor:** That was uncalled for! Clayton!
* **Pete:** Sir I can handle this, and don't worry, I'm not gonna sink to his level of childish behavior. \*walks out the kitchen\* Hey turkey breath!

* **Governor:** Everywhere you turn; squabbling! What's wrong with the human race?
* **Benson:** Sometimes I think the entrance requirements are too easy.

* **Kraus:** Sorry I was late, I was tied up.
* **Benson:** Kraus, we are not interested in your private life.

* **Little John:** I don't have an ego problem, I'm too cool for that.
* **Benson:** Trust me on this, Little John, you have an ego problem.

* **Benson:** How did I meet you?
* **Little John:** I ripped off your brief case.
* **Benson:** Exactly, and now your carrying one.
* **Little John:** That's right. I'm on my way up the ladder.
* **Kraus:** I wish you'd move up that ladder with a can of paint.
Human Element

"**Human Element**" is the second episode of the fifth season, and ninety-second episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by Gary Brown, the episode originally aired on September 23rd, 1983.

## Synopsis

A competent robot, JIMM, is brought in to help the staff, but instead, makes everyone feel threatened for the security of their jobs.

## Trivia

* The model of JIMM the Robot was supplied by *International Robotics* and is named Robot Sico. Though the model has since been updated, similar 80's models were used in *Rocky IV,* at *Disney Epcot,* and at *James Brown* performances.
* The beginning scene in the Governor's office, the later scene with Katie and Jimm, and the tag scene, are all cut out off syndication edits due to time constraints.
* It's revealed in this episode that Gene's middle name starts with an X. It's later revealed that his middle name is Xavier. It's also revealed that Benson has no middle name.

## Cultural References

* The Governor mentions the Chicago White Sox.
* Benson refers to JIMM as the Tinman and Clayton as 'The Wizard of Odd' in reference to the children's novel, and later pop culture staple, '*The Wizard of Oz'.*
* Clayton refers to JIMM as a 'Tin Judas on wheels'.
* Benson suggests JIMM should get on *Family Feud.*

## Quote

* **Benson:** Governor, our problem is that the student population is shifting and our schools are underutilized!
* **Governor:** Well this is terrible!
* **Benson:** I know!
* **Governor:** There isn't any tomatoes on this sandwich!
* **Benson:** That I didn't know.
* **Kraus:** Sorry, Governor.
* **Governor:** It's just that I had my heart set on a BLT, this is really only a BL. When you get right down to it, it's the T that makes the sandwich what it is.

* **Kraus:** There is nothing wrong with my tomatoes!
* **Benson:** I'm going to pass up this golden opportunity in the interest of getting back to business.

* **Benson:** That's very impressive JIMM, but I imagine you must have a lot of trouble with your neck.
* **JIMM:** Occasionally, I crack a ball socket.
* **Benson:** Mm that must be very painful.

* **Benson:** JIMM, you're terrific! You do everything, but play the piano!
* **JIMM:** Hop on my platform, Denise! We can boogie! \*plays disco music\*

* **Governor:** You know, Benson, you really shouldn't resist using JIMM. He's the shape of thing to come.
* **Benson:** Well, if so, they're gonna have to start making bigger hats.

* **Governor:** JIMM, how could you say such a thing?
* **JIMM:** I have a Vox pack 12 octave speech synthesizer-
* **Benson:** No, no, no, no, no, no, laser breathe. He means why.
Boys' Night Out

**"Boys' Night Out"** is the sixteenth episode of the fourth season, and eighty-fourth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson.*

Directed by Bill Foster, the episode originally aired on February 4th, 1983.

## Synopsis

When a cable fighting match ends abruptly, Benson, Clayton, Pete, and The Governor decide to play card games and swap stories of the 'one that got away'.

## Trivia

* The beginning scene with Denise, Kraus, Benson, and Katie, is cut out of syndication edits due to time constraints.
* Tracy Reed would later guest star in the Season 5 episode, "Embarrassing Moments".
* It's revealed that Clayton was once in foreign service.

## Cultural References

* Katie mentions the sitcom, *Happy Days.*
* The Governor's 'one that got away' was a woman named Norma Jean who moved to California and became an actress. This was a direct reference to Marilyn Monroe. When the staff questions him about it, The Governor reveals that his 'Norma Jean' became a Nun.

## Accolades

* The episode was nominated for an Emmy at the 1983 Primetime Emmy Awards.

## Quotes

* **Pete:** You're trying to tell us you had a girlfriend in Abud Dhabi?
* **Clayton:** Wasn't just a girlfriend, she was a princess. Her name was Princess Laila Johanna Jasmine Alexandra. I called her Sandy.
Ted Danson

San Diego, California, U.S.

**Edward Bridge Danson III** (born December 29, 1947) is an American actor and producer who played the lead character Sam Malone on the NBC sitcom *Cheers*, Jack Holden in the films *Three Men and a Baby* and *Three Men and a Little Lady*, and Dr. John Becker on the CBS sitcom *Becker*. He also starred in the CBS dramas *CSI: Crime Scene Investigation* and *CSI: Cyber* as D.B. Russell.

During his career, Danson has been nominated for 18 Primetime Emmy Awards, winning two; 11 Golden Globe Awards nominations, winning three; one Screen Actors Guild Award; and one American Comedy Award and has been awarded a star on Hollywood's Walk of Fame.

He would earn an early acting role on the ABC sitcom, *Benson*, in 1981 as news producer, Dan Slater.

## Further Info

* https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ted\_Danson
Barney Martin

**Barney Martin** (March 3, 1923 – March 21, 2005) was an American actor, best known for playing Morty Seinfeld, father of Jerry, on the sitcom *Seinfeld* (1991-1998). He also played supporting roles in Mel Brooks' *The Producers* (1967), and the Dudley Moore comedy *Arthur* (1981). He also originated the role of Amos Hart (Mr. Cellophane) in the 1976 Broadway production of *Chicago*.

Barney would portray the role of Frank Cooper on the ABC sitcom, *Benson* in Season 4.

## Early life

Born in New York City, Martin served in the U.S. Army Air Force as a navigator during World War II and then was an NYPD officer for twenty years, working his way up to detective. He got his start as a comedian while still a police officer, giving humorous presentations to the deputy commissioners.

## Career

Entering show business as a stand-in for Jackie Gleason in *The Honeymooners* in 1955–56 and as a part-time writer for Steve Allen in the 1950s, he was discovered by Mel Brooks, who cast him in *The Producers*. The next year, he played the role of Hank in *Charly*. He went on to act in dozens of films, including the role of Liza Minnelli's unemployed father in the hit 1981 film *Arthur* and its 1988 sequel, *Arthur 2: On the Rocks*.

*South Pacific*, *The Fantasticks*, and *How Now, Dow Jones*.[2] Much of Martin's work has been in television, where he had a long career as a character actor. He played a gangster called the "Cheese Man" in a *Golden Girls* episode. He played a love interest for Thelma Harper in the Hawaii episode of *Mama's Family*, and he played the father of Frank Fontana on *Murphy Brown*. He appeared in an episode of *Full House* as Ranger Roy, the host of a popular kids' TV show. In 1981, he portrayed Ralph Marolla, father of Liza Minnelli's character in the film *Arthur* and the following year appeared on *Barney Miller* in the episode "Obituary".[3]

In 1990, Martin was cast as the fictional father of Jerry Seinfeld, Morty Seinfeld in the sitcom *Seinfeld*. His first appearance was in season 2's "The Pony Remark". Martin replaced Phil Bruns who first portrayed the character in his first appearance in Season 1's "The Stake Out". He took on the role upon showrunners Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld deciding they wanted the character of Morty Seinfeld to be harsher, as they thought Bruns was too laid-back for the character.[4] He retained this role until the series ended in 1998.

## Death

On March 21, 2005, he died of bladder cancer in Studio City, Los Angeles, California at age 82. He was cremated, and his ashes were returned to his family.

## External Links

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barney\_Martin
Jayne Kennedy

Washington, D.C., U.S.

### Occupation

Actress, model, sports caster, television personality, producer, writer, philanthropist

### Children

4

**Jayne Kennedy Overton** (née **Harrison**; born October 27, 1951) is an American television personality, actress, model, corporate spokeswoman, producer, writer, public speaker, philanthropist, and sports broadcaster. Kennedy was crowned Miss Ohio in 1970 in the Miss USA Pageant; she went on to compete in the top ten of the national pageant. Kennedy won a 1982 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture award for her performance as Julie Winters in the 1981 film *Body and Soul* co-starring alongside her then–husband Leon Isaac Kennedy.

Kennedy would portray the role of Elizabeth Burnett on the ABC sitcom, *Benson* from Seasons 6-7.

## Personal life

Jayne Kennedy grew up in Wickliffe, Ohio as one of six children. Her parents, Herbert and Virginia Harrison, taught their children "to aim high, give God most of the credit, suffer disappointments silently and avoid maliciousness".[3] In high school, she was on the cheerleading squad, was a member of the National Honor Society and was three times elected the president of her high school class.[4]

A year after high school, Harrison met Leon Isaac Kennedy, a DJ and a struggling actor/writer. They married in 1971. Motown singer/songwriter Smokey Robinson served as best man at their wedding. They later divorced in 1982. In 1985, Kennedy married actor Bill Overton. They have four children: his daughter Cheyenne (1982) and their three daughters Savannah Re (b. November 20, 1985), Kopper Joi (b. May 17, 1989) and Zaire Ollyea (b. September 15, 1995).

## External Links

* https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jayne\_Kennedy