The subplot of Herb's being hurt in a parasailing accident was due to a similar real life accident that seriously injured Frank Bonner. Bonner suffered a broken back and internal injuries, and was still on crutches. This was his first time back after the accident, and the studio audience applauded his entrance.
The title is from the family sitcom Family Affair (1966) about a reconstituted family headed by a bachelor uncle.
There's a poster for The Durocs on the back door of the control room. Johnny Fever also plays one of their songs.