My Two Dads (1987–1990)
- Sep 19, 1987
- 2 min read
My Two Dads is an American sitcom that brought a unique twist to family comedy with its unconventional premise and heartfelt humor. Airing on NBC, the show stood out for its lighthearted take on co-parenting, blending 1980s sitcom charm with themes of family and acceptance. Its quirky setup and engaging cast made it a memorable part of late-1980s television.
Created by Danielle Alexandra and Michael Jacobs, My Two Dads was developed with contributions from writers like Gary Menteer and Bob Young. The series premiered on September 20, 1987, and its final episode aired on April 30, 1990. The creators’ vision of two contrasting men raising a teenage girl together offered a fresh perspective on family dynamics, balancing comedy with emotional moments.
Plot
Set in New York City, My Two Dads follows 12-year-old Nicole Bradford, who, after her mother’s death, is placed in the joint custody of two former friends, Michael Taylor, a neurotic financial advisor, and Joey Harris, a laid-back artist. The two men, who competed for Nicole’s mother years earlier, must navigate their differences to raise Nicole under the supervision of Judge Margaret W. Wilbur. The show explores themes of parenting, friendship, and growing up, with humor drawn from the dads’ contrasting personalities and Nicole’s teenage adventures.
Cast
Paul Reiser as Michael Taylor
Greg Evigan as Joey Harris
Staci Keanan as Nicole Bradford
Florence Stanley as Judge Margaret W. Wilbur
Giovanni Ribisi as Cory Kupkus (recurring)
Chad Allen as Zach Nichols (recurring)
Dick Butkus as Ed Klawicki (recurring)
Seasons and Episodes
Season 1 (1987–1988) – 22 episodes
Season 2 (1989) – 16 episodes
Season 3 (1989–1990) – 22 episodes Total Episodes: 60
Cultural Impact
My Two Dads resonated with audiences for its fresh take on family, challenging traditional norms with its depiction of two non-romantic male co-parents. Its lighthearted humor and catchy theme song, “You Can Count on Me,” became iconic, and the show’s premise sparked discussions about blended families. Airing in syndication on USA Network and later on Antenna TV and Rewind TV, it maintained a nostalgic following, with DVD releases of the first two seasons by Shout! Factory. The series also featured a crossover with Night Court, adding to its 1980s TV legacy.
Honors and Recognition
My Two Dads won a People’s Choice Award in 1988 (tied with A Different World) for Favorite New TV Comedy Program. Staci Keanan earned a Young Artist Award for Best Young Actress in a New Television Comedy Series in 1988. The show’s innovative premise and the performances of Paul Reiser and Greg Evigan were praised for their comedic chemistry and relatability.
Conclusion
My Two Dads remains a nostalgic highlight of 1980s sitcoms, celebrated for its humorous take on unconventional family structures and heartfelt storytelling. Its legacy lies in its ability to blend comedy with themes of unity and acceptance, making it a cherished part of television history.
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