One Day at a Time (1975–1984)
- Dec 15, 1975
- 2 min read
One Day at a Time is an American sitcom that became a beloved classic of the 1970s and 1980s, celebrated for its heartfelt humor and groundbreaking portrayal of a single mother raising her daughters. Airing on CBS, the show stood out for its realistic depiction of family life, tackling social issues like divorce, feminism, and teenage struggles with sensitivity and wit. Its strong ensemble and relatable themes made it a television landmark.
Created by Whitney Blake and Allan Manings, and developed by Norman Lear, One Day at a Time drew inspiration from Blake’s own experiences as a single mother. The series premiered on December 16, 1975, and its final episode aired on May 28, 1984. Lear’s vision of a socially conscious comedy, paired with sharp writing, resonated widely, leading to a successful 2017 reboot.
Plot
Set in Indianapolis, Indiana, One Day at a Time follows Ann Romano, a divorced mother raising her teenage daughters, Julie and Barbara, in a new apartment. With the help of building superintendent Dwayne Schneider and later romantic interest Nick Handris, Ann navigates career challenges, parenting, and personal growth. The show explores themes of independence, resilience, and family bonds, blending humor with poignant moments as it addresses issues like dating, substance abuse, and women’s rights.
Cast
Bonnie Franklin as Ann Romano
Mackenzie Phillips as Julie Cooper (seasons 1–5, recurring later)
Valerie Bertinelli as Barbara Cooper
Pat Harrington Jr. as Dwayne Schneider
Richard Masur as David Kane (season 1)
Michael Lembeck as Max Horvath (seasons 6–7)
Glenn Scarpelli as Alex Handris (seasons 6–7)
Boyd Gaines as Mark Royer (season 8)
Seasons and Episodes
Season 1 (1975–1976) – 15 episodes
Season 2 (1976–1977) – 24 episodes
Season 3 (1977–1978) – 24 episodes
Season 4 (1978–1979) – 26 episodes
Season 5 (1979–1980) – 26 episodes
Season 6 (1980–1981) – 21 episodes
Season 7 (1981–1982) – 25 episodes
Season 8 (1982–1983) – 26 episodes
Season 9 (1983–1984) – 22 episodes Total Episodes: 209
Cultural Impact
One Day at a Time was a trailblazer for its realistic portrayal of a single-parent family and its tackling of taboo topics like teen pregnancy and mental health, influencing later shows like Roseanne. Schneider’s catchphrase, “You rang?” and the show’s theme song, “This Is It,” became iconic. The series inspired a 2017 Netflix reboot, reimagining the story with a Cuban-American family. Syndication on networks like Antenna TV and streaming on platforms like Pluto TV keep it accessible, with fan appreciation and merchandise like DVDs sustaining its legacy.
Honors and Recognition
One Day at a Time won two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor for Pat Harrington Jr. in 1981 and 1984, and earned three nominations, including for Bonnie Franklin. The show also won a Golden Globe for Valerie Bertinelli in 1982. Its bold storytelling and strong ensemble were praised for balancing humor with social relevance.
Conclusion
One Day at a Time remains a cherished sitcom, celebrated for its heartfelt humor, groundbreaking themes, and relatable family dynamics. Its influence on television and enduring appeal ensure its place as a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences across generations.
Copyright/Disclaimer
Report Errors/Contribute to Site
Comments