Webster is an American sitcom that aired on ABC from September 16, 1983, to May 8, 1989. The series was created by Stu Silver and produced by Georgian Bay Productions, Emmanuel Lewis Entertainment Enterprises, and Paramount Television.
Premise The show centers on Webster Long, a seven-year-old African American orphan whose parents, friends of retired NFL player George Papadapolis, die in a car accident. George and his socialite wife, Katherine Calder-Papadapolis, agree to take Webster into their upscale Chicago apartment. The series explores the humorous and sometimes poignant challenges and triumphs of an interracial, intergenerational family unit adjusting to life together. George and Katherine, who had been enjoying a child-free existence, suddenly find themselves navigating parenthood, while Webster adjusts to a new environment, dealing with issues of race, class, and family.
Cast and Characters
- Emmanuel Lewis as Webster Long: The titular character, an intelligent, charming, and often mischievous orphan.
- Alex Karras as George Papadapolis: A former professional football player who becomes Webster's adoptive father. He is kind-hearted but often gruff.
- Susan Clark as Katherine Calder-Papadapolis: George's sophisticated wife, a successful socialite and television host, who becomes Webster's adoptive mother.
- Henry Coleman as Bill: George's assistant and friend (seasons 1-2).
- Eugene Robert Glazer as Jerry Silver: Katherine's agent (seasons 1-2).
- Corin Nemec as Nicky Papadapolis: George's nephew who lives with the family in later seasons.
- Chad Allen as Rob: Webster's friend.
- Carl Steven as Tommy: Webster's friend.
Production and Broadcast Webster aired during ABC's TGIF block for some of its run, although it initially premiered on Friday nights before moving to various slots. The series was known for its blend of comedy and dramatic moments, often tackling serious subjects appropriate for a family audience. The show's theme song, "Then Came You," was performed by Steve Geyer and was recognizable for its upbeat melody and lyrics emphasizing the unexpected joy Webster brought to George and Katherine's lives.
Cultural Impact and Reception Webster was a popular show during its initial run, particularly noted for Emmanuel Lewis's breakout performance and his charisma. It contributed to a trend in the 1980s of sitcoms featuring child stars and exploring themes of non-traditional family structures and adoption. The show addressed issues like racial identity and class differences in a way that was accessible to a broad audience, offering a positive portrayal of an interracial family. While not always critically acclaimed for its depth, it resonated with viewers and is remembered as a staple of 1980s television.