Popular (1999–2001)

Two girls who despise each other, due to being on opposite sides of the "popularity fence", are forced together upon learning that their parents are getting married.

Creators:

Gina Matthews, Ryan Murphy

Stars:

Leslie Bibb, Carly Pope, Tamara Mello

5 wins & 9 nominations.

Cast

Series cast summary:
Leslie Bibb	...	Brooke McQueen (43 episodes, 1999-2001)
Carly Pope	...	Sam McPherson (43 episodes, 1999-2001)
Tamara Mello	...	Lily Esposito (43 episodes, 1999-2001)
Christopher Gorham	...	Harrison John (43 episodes, 1999-2001)
Sara Rue	...	Carmen Ferrara (43 episodes, 1999-2001)
Bryce Johnson	...	Josh Ford (43 episodes, 1999-2001)
Tammy Lynn Michaels	...	Nicole Julian (43 episodes, 1999-2001)
Ron Lester	...	Michael 'Sugar Daddy' Bernardino (43 episodes, 1999-2001)
Leslie Grossman	...	Mary Cherry (43 episodes, 1999-2001)
Lisa Darr	...	Jane McPherson (43 episodes, 1999-2001)
Scott Bryce	...	Mike McQueen (43 episodes, 1999-2001)
Diane Delano	...	Bobbi Glass (36 episodes, 1999-2001)
Adria Dawn	...	April Tuna (18 episodes, 1999-2001)

Storyline

In the series pilot, two very different social opposite high school girls on different sides of the popularity circle, the blond, wealthy, attractive and popular Brooke McQueen. The "leader" of the popular crowd, Josh Ford her jock boyfriend, Nicole Julian her best-friend, and Sugar Daddy Josh's friend. Brooke and Nicole plan a party to kick off the school year inviting only those they choose to bring into their inner circle. The "Wannabe's" brunette, middle-class, wannabe and unpopular Samantha "Sam" McPherson who despises Brooke, her best-friend Harrison John, Carmen Ferrara, and activist friend Lily Esposito. Carmen wants to tryout for the cheer-leading squad as Josh contemplates joining the school musical. Sam and Brooke are paired as lab partner's to the delight of Carmen, who sees it as a chance for Sam to help her get on the cheer-leading squad. Sam takes a romantic interest in her facility advisor who wants her to interview the popular kids at Brooke's party much to Sam's ...

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Plot Keywords:

popularity | opposites | high school | school life | one word title | 

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Genres:

Comedy | Drama

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Details

Country:

USA

Language:

English

Release Date:

29 September 1999 (USA)

Also Known As:

Cure u trendu

Filming Locations:

Los Angeles, California, USA

Company Credits

Production Co:

Murphy/Matthews Productions, Shephard / Robin Productions, Touchstone Television

Technical Specs

Runtime:

60 min 60 min (43 episodes)

Color:

Color

Did You Know?

Trivia

According to Leslie Bibb in an audio commentary, because the character of Mary Cherry was consistently so energetic and over-the-top, actress Leslie Grossman had a deal where she would take every fourth working week off to rest.

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Quotes

Lily Esposito: Herbal things. They guarantee breat size enlargement in days!
Samantha 'Sam' McPherson: They're snake oil!
Lily Esposito: I don't care what they're made of I need breasts!

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Connections

Referenced in Grosse Pointe: Mommy Dearest (2000)

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Soundtracks

"Supermodels"
Theme Song
by Kendall Payne

User Reviews

Spectacular!

In opposition to the previous reviewer (what the hell were you watching - a rerun of Dawsons' or a home video??)

Anyways, Popular is without a doubt one of THE best teen tv shows to hit screen in the US/UK.

The show has just the right mix of comedy and drama which is reminiscent of Heathers. Even the music used with the show sounds like the same music that was used in Heathers.

Yes, the show spoofs 'teen issues' but, also adds its own unique take on them.

I think you just have to be able to know when to take it seriously and when to laugh - take note previous reviewer! You need a BRAIN.

Anyway - just wish they'd get on with it and put it on DVD. It's the least they could do since they unceremoniously ended the series without a proper resolution (b*****ds!)