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...

---

Plot Keywords:

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

---

Genres:

Crime | Drama | Mystery

---

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

Larry Wilcox's character, Jon Baker, was named after the nephew of the show's creator, Rick Rosner. The boy had a small role in the first episode as a boy stopped by Ponch and Jon for riding his bike on the highway.

---

Quotes

[a hacker has messed up the CHP's payroll]
Sgt. Joseph Getraer: Now, about the paychecks.
Officer Barry Baricza: Yeah, I've got a car payment due!
[the other officers start complaining]
Sgt. Joseph Getraer: Settle down! Just settle down and we'll try to sort out your paychecks.
Officer Barry Baricza: Well, how much was YOUR paycheck?
Sgt. Joseph Getraer: [nervously] It's... more than I usually get.
[under his breath]
Sgt. Joseph Getraer: It's closer to what I deserve.

---

Connections

Referenced in Strongbad_email.exe: Disc Six (2008)

User Reviews

CHiPs is the best

"CHiPs" was the best of the late 70's early 80's it was what childhood was all about, i loved Ponch then and i still think that he is the best thing on a plate (being chips of course). The re-runs are still going on every day here in the UK on the channel bravo, we just cannot get enough.

If you want more check out the great Taking care of chips site.

we have lots of fun there, and welcome new members, from all over the place.

Erika