Major Dad (1989–1993)

Major John MacGillis is a conservative, by-the-book, die-hard Marine. Polly Cooper is a pacifistic, liberal journalist. Nonetheless, when the two meet, there's instant and intense chemistry... See full summary »

Creators:

Richard C. Okie, John G. Stephens

Stars:

Gerald McRaney, Shanna Reed, Nicole Dubuc

Nominated for 1 Primetime Emmy. Another 2 wins & 7 nominations.

Cast

Complete series cast summary:
Gerald McRaney	...	Maj. John D. 'Mac' McGillis (96 episodes, 1989-1993)
Shanna Reed	...	Polly Cooper McGillis (96 episodes, 1989-1993)
Nicole Dubuc	...	Robin Cooper McGillis (96 episodes, 1989-1993)
Chelsea Hertford	...	Casey Cooper McGillis (96 episodes, 1989-1993)
Marisa Ryan	...	Elizabeth Cooper McGillis (96 episodes, 1989-1993)
Matt Mulhern	...	Lt. Eugene 'Gene' Holowachuk (96 episodes, 1989-1993)
Beverly Archer	...	Gunnery Sgt. Alva 'Gunny' Bricker (70 episodes, 1990-1993)
Jon Cypher	...	Gen. Marcus C. Craig (69 episodes, 1990-1993)

Storyline

Major John MacGillis is a conservative, by-the-book, die-hard Marine. Polly Cooper is a pacifistic, liberal journalist. Nonetheless, when the two meet, there's instant and intense chemistry between them. With the permission of Polly's 3 daughters, the two get married within weeks. Now Polly (and her kids) have to learn how to deal with being a Marine family, while Major MacGillis has to learn how to be a Dad...

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Plot Keywords:

u.s. marine corps | sitcom | sergeant

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Genres:

Comedy | Family

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Details

Country:

USA

Language:

English

Release Date:

17 September 1989 (USA)

Also Known As:

Agli ordini, papà

Filming Locations:

Highland Park Police Station - 6045 York Blvd., Highland Park, Los Angeles, California, USA

Company Credits

Production Co:

S.B.B. Productions, Spanish Trail Productions, Universal TV

Technical Specs

Runtime:

30 min 30 min (96 episodes)

Sound Mix:

Stereo

Color:

Color

Aspect Ratio:

1.33 : 1

Did You Know?

Trivia

The building shown at the opening of the show when they lived on Camp Holister Marine Base is actually Lejeune Hall, the headquarters of Quantico Marine Base in Virginia. It is across from the military lodging on the main road.

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Quotes

Casey: It's GI Joe!

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Connections

Referenced in Mystery Science Theater 3000: Monster A-Go-Go (1993)

User Reviews

Majorly Amusing

For an 80s/early 90s show, Major Dad was amusing. It is only a sitcom; it's not supposed to be taken that seriously. If you enjoyed shows like Coach or Cheers, then you'll enjoy Major Dad. People always talk about how hard it is to make a good military show. I think they never watched an episode of M*A*S*H in their sheltered lives. Likewise, this was fairly successful. It was a show that the family and I could sit around and watch, and that's saying something. Family TV has hit rock bottom unfortunately. So if you're looking for a family favorite, tune into Major Dad. It's not the funniest show you'll ever watch, but it's really cute. Enjoy!