CHiPs (1977–1983)

The adventures of two California Highway Patrol motorcycle officers.

Creator:

Rick Rosner

Stars:

Erik Estrada, Robert Pine, Larry Wilcox

Nominated for 1 Golden Globe. Another 2 nominations.

Cast

Complete series cast summary:
Erik Estrada	...	Officer Francis Llewellyn 'Ponch' Poncherello (139 episodes, 1977-1983)
Robert Pine	...	Sgt. Joseph Getraer (139 episodes, 1977-1983)
Larry Wilcox	...	Officer Jon Baker (117 episodes, 1977-1982)
Paul Linke	...	Officer Arthur Grossman (77 episodes, 1977-1983)
Brodie Greer	...	Officer Barry Baricza (75 episodes, 1977-1982)

Storyline

"CHiPS," which stood for California Highway Patrol, followed the daily beats of two state motorcycle patrolmen as they patrolled the freeway system in and around Los Angeles. Officer Jon Baker was the straight, serious officer while Frank "Ponch" Poncherello was the more free- wheeling member of the duo; both reported to Sgt. Joe Getraer, who gave out assignments and advice in handling the cases. Each episode saw a compilation of incidents, ranging from the humorous (e.g., a stranded motorist) to criminal investigations (such as hijackings) and tragic incidents (such as a fiery multi-car pile-up with multiple deaths. Other aspects of Ponch and Jon's daily work were highlighted as well; the social lives of both officers (they were both single) often provided the lighter moments. On occassion, Ponch and Jon were assisted by a female "Chippie" at first, the very beautiful Sindy Cahill; and later, the more wholesome Bonnie Clark. In 1982, Ponch got a new partner, Bobby Nelson (series star...

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Plot Keywords:

california | highway patrol | motorcycle | bachelor | acronym in title | 

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Genres:

Crime | Drama | Mystery

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Certificate:

TV-PG

Details

Country:

USA

Language:

English

Release Date:

15 September 1977 (USA)

Also Known As:

CHiPs Patrol

Filming Locations:

Long Beach, California, USA

Company Credits

Production Co:

MGM Television, Rosner Television

Technical Specs

Runtime:

60 min 60 min (139 episodes)

Sound Mix:

Mono

Color:

Color (Metrocolor)

Aspect Ratio:

4:3

Did You Know?

Trivia

The brown van you see to the right during the intro belonged to The Children's Baptist Home in Ingelwood, California.

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Quotes

[Jon announces his proposal for a trail bike task force]
Officer Jon Baker: I'd like to nominate my partner, Frank Poncherello.
Officer Francis Llewellyn 'Ponch' Poncherello: Hey, that's great. 'Cause when we first met, I was on a dirtbike.
Officer Jon Baker: Uh, no, Ponch. When we first met, you had just fallen off a dirtbike.

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Connections

Referenced in Galactica 1980: The Super Scouts: Part 1 (1980)

User Reviews

The Best TV Show Ever!

'CHiPs' is one of the most fun TV shows ever aired. It is a genuine feel good show, and each episode usually taught us a lesson. Erik Estrada and Larry Wilcox make great partners and are both underrated actors. 'CHiPs' has some of the most horrific car crashes ever seen on television. Add to that the great early 80's vibe the series has, and you can't go wrong. God bless CHiPs!