George RR Martin makes a cameo as a subway rider harassed by thugs.
This story took two real-life incidents that took place in New York City. Firstly, the Guardian Angels originated in 1979. They wear Red Berets. In this story, the characters wear White Berets. Second, there was a real-life vigilante who shot four subway robbers in late 1984. This real-life incident inspired the Dorian Harewood character in this story.
The character "Isaac Stubbs" is recast from the pilot. The street-fighting instructor was originally played by Ron O'Neal. The actor Delroy Lindo takes over here, only to reprise his character once more in the following story.