Rags to Riches (1987)

[Cassette Carl]

Title: Rags to Riches

Genre: Comedy, Drama

Creator: Bernie Kukoff

Cast: Tisha Campbell, Joseph Bologna, Heidi Zeigler, Douglas Seale, Kimiko Gelman, Blanca De Garr, Bridget Michele

First aired: Mar 8, 1987

Last air date: Jan 14, 1988

Overview: Rags to Riches is an American musical comedy drama series that was broadcast on NBC for two seasons from 1987 to 1988. Set in the 1960s, the series tells the story of Nick Foley, a self-made millionaire who adopts five orphan girls. Each episode included music videos of hit songs from the era sung by the cast integrated into the plot.

"Rags to Riches" is indeed a charming blend of comedy and drama, set against the backdrop of the 1960s. The concept of a millionaire adopting five orphan girls provided a unique narrative twist that allowed the show to explore themes of family, belonging, and the clash of different lifestyles. The inclusion of musical numbers, where the cast performed popular songs from the 1960s, added a lively and nostalgic dimension to the series, making it stand out from other shows of the time.

The show was created by Bernie Kukoff, who was also known for co-creating the successful series "Diff'rent Strokes." The lead role of Nick Foley was played by Joseph Bologna, a versatile actor known for his work in both comedy and drama. Tisha Campbell, who played Marva, later went on to have a successful career in both television and film.

Though "Rags to Riches" had a relatively short run, it left a memorable mark with its unique format and engaging storytelling. The series managed to capture the spirit of the 1960s while resonating with audiences of the 1980s, offering a delightful mix of humor, drama, and music.