Hill Street Blues (1987) Complete TV Review
Hill Street Blues (1987) Complete TV Review
Introduction: The Revolutionary Police Drama That Changed Television Forever
When Hill Street Blues concluded its groundbreaking seven-season run on May 12, 1987, it left behind a television legacy that would forever change the landscape of police dramas and serialized storytelling. The show chronicled the lives of the Metropolitan Police Department staff of a single police station located on Hill Street in an unnamed large U.S. city. This comprehensive review examines all seven seasons of this influential series, exploring its revolutionary storytelling techniques, memorable characters, and lasting impact on television.
Hill Street Blues wasn’t just another police procedural; it was a groundbreaking experiment in television storytelling that elevated the medium to new artistic heights. The series, created by Steven Bochco and Michael Kozoll, combined gritty realism with complex character development, establishing many conventions that modern television dramas still follow today.
The Genesis of a Television Revolution
A New Approach to Police Drama
MTM Enterprises developed the series on behalf of NBC, appointing Steven Bochco and Michael Kozoll as series writers. The show’s creators were determined to break away from the traditional episodic format that dominated television at the time. Instead of simple cases wrapped up within an hour, Hill Street Blues introduced multiple interconnected storylines that spanned episodes, seasons, and the entire series run.
The series’ unique approach was immediately apparent from its pilot episode, “Hill Street Station.” The pilot episode, “Hill Street Station,” was awarded an Edgar Award for Best Teleplay from a Series. This recognition signaled that television critics and industry professionals understood they were witnessing something unprecedented.
Production Innovation and Cinematic Techniques
The show’s visual style was as revolutionary as its narrative structure. The creators employed handheld camera work, natural lighting, and documentary-style filming techniques that gave Hill Street Blues an authenticity rarely seen on television. Hill Street Blues stakes out innovative ground with its cinéma vérité camerawork and commitment to moral complexity, announcing an invigorating new mode of television storytelling.
This realistic approach extended to the dialogue and situations. The series deals with real-life issues and employs professional jargon and slang to a greater extent than had been seen before on television. Characters spoke over each other, background conversations overlapped, and the busy atmosphere of a real police station was authentically recreated.
Season-by-Season Analysis: The Complete Journey
Season 1 (1981): Establishing the Foundation
The inaugural season of Hill Street Blues introduced viewers to the Hill Street Precinct and its diverse ensemble cast. Though it had a rocky start (the first season it earned the dubious honor of being the lowest rated show to ever be renewed), the quality of the writing and performances was undeniable.
Key developments in Season 1: • Introduction of Captain Frank Furillo (Daniel J. Travanti) as the moral center of the precinct • Establishment of the iconic roll call scenes with Sergeant Phil Esterhaus (Michael Conrad) • The famous catchphrase “Let’s be careful out there” becomes part of television history • Complex relationship dynamics between Furillo and public defender Joyce Davenport (Veronica Hamel) • The partnership between Officers Bobby Hill (Michael Warren) and Andy Renko (Charles Haid)
A gritty, realistic look at the life of cops in a large (and unnamed) metropolitan city. Led by Capt. Frank Furillo, the cops of the Hill Street Station kept the peace – though there were plenty of casualties along the way.
Season 2 (1982): Building Momentum
The second season deepened character relationships and expanded the show’s narrative complexity. The writing became more confident, and the ensemble cast settled into their roles with remarkable chemistry.
Major storylines included: • Furillo’s ongoing struggles with departmental politics • The evolution of Detective Mick Belker’s (Bruce Weitz) unconventional methods • Continued development of the Hill-Renko partnership • Introduction of more complex ongoing storylines
Season 3 (1983): Creative Peak
Many consider the third season to represent Hill Street Blues at its creative peak. At the 34th Primetime Emmy Awards, for the 1981–82 season, nine cast members were nominated for Emmys. Daniel J. Travanti and Michael Conrad were the only ones to win (for Lead Actor and Supporting Actor respectively).
Notable elements: • Marriage of Furillo and Joyce Davenport • Increased focus on social issues and police corruption • Complex multi-episode story arcs • Enhanced character development for supporting cast members
Season 4 (1984): Tragedy and Transition
The fourth season marked a significant turning point for the series. Three seasons later, he dies during a romantic tryst with Grace; this was written due to Michael Conrad’s death from urethral cancer on November 22, 1983. The loss of Michael Conrad, who played the beloved Sergeant Phil Esterhaus, forced the show to adapt and find new ways to maintain its emotional center.
Key changes: • Introduction of Sergeant Stan Jablonski (Robert Prosky) as Esterhaus’s replacement • Continued tradition of the roll call ending with safety reminders • Exploration of how loss affects the precinct family • Maintained narrative quality despite cast changes
Season 5 (1985): Maturation and Evolution
The fifth season demonstrated the show’s ability to evolve while maintaining its core identity. New characters were introduced, and existing relationships deepened.
Significant developments: • Further exploration of corruption within the police department • Enhanced focus on community relationships • Continued innovation in storytelling techniques • Strengthened ensemble dynamics
Season 6 (1986): Maintaining Excellence
The season premiere opened with a roll call filled with officers never before seen on the show, briefly fooling viewers into thinking the entire cast had been replaced. It was then revealed that this was, in fact, the night shift. This creative decision showcased the show’s continued willingness to experiment with format and viewer expectations.
Season highlights: • Innovative episode structures and narrative techniques • Deepened character backstories • Complex examination of police work’s psychological toll • Continued critical acclaim and Emmy recognition
Season 7 (1987): The Final Chapter
The seventh and final season marked the end of an era in television drama. Stan Jablonski became a secondary character part way through this season, and when Travanti announced he would not return the next year, the producers decided to end the show in 1987.
Final season changes: • Episodes from season 7 break away from tradition, showing characters at home or working. The roll call becomes a minor part of the beginning. Some episodes do not show roll call at all. • Introduction of new characters Officer Patrick Flaherty (Robert Clohessy) and Officer Tina Russo (Megan Gallagher) • Groundbreaking inclusion of the first lesbian recurring character on a major network • Move from Thursday to Tuesday nights to make way for L.A. Law
The Stellar Ensemble Cast: Bringing Hill Street to Life
Daniel J. Travanti as Captain Frank Furillo
Daniel J. Travanti portrayed Captain Frank Furillo, the moral compass of the fictional Hill Street Precinct. A dedicated and pragmatic leader, Furillo faced the challenges of maintaining order in a crime-ridden urban environment while grappling with personal and professional conflicts.
Travanti’s performance as Furillo anchored the entire series. Daniel J. Travanti portrayed Captain Francis Xavier Furillo, the dedicated and principled leader of the Hill Street station. His portrayal earned him critical acclaim and multiple Emmy Awards, establishing him as one of television’s most respected dramatic actors.
Performance highlights: • Nuanced portrayal of leadership under pressure • Complex romantic relationship with Joyce Davenport • Masterful handling of both dramatic and lighter moments • Two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series
Michael Conrad as Sergeant Phil Esterhaus
Michael Conrad played the role of Sergeant Phil Esterhaus in the renowned television series “Hill Street Blues.” Conrad’s portrayal of the character was nothing short of remarkable, showcasing his exceptional acting skills and understanding of the complexities of his role.
Conrad’s Esterhaus became the emotional heart of the precinct, and his famous parting words at each roll call became television legend. Tragically, Michael Conrad passed away of cancer in 1983 during the third season of Hill Street Blues. He was only 58. His departure from the show was marked by a touching tribute, with the famous line “Let’s be careful out there” becoming synonymous with his character’s legacy.
Bruce Weitz as Detective Mick Belker
Bruce Weitz, an esteemed actor, brought the street-smart Detective Mick Belker to life in the hit television series “Hill Street Blues.” Weitz’s portrayal of this gritty character captivated audiences with his raw intensity and no-nonsense approach to police work.
Belker became one of the show’s most memorable characters, known for his unconventional methods and fierce dedication to justice. Belker’s unconventional methods and his habit of biting perpetrators during arrests made him a memorable character on the show. Weitz’s portrayal earned him critical acclaim, and he won an Emmy Award for his role.
Supporting Cast Excellence
The strength of Hill Street Blues lay not just in its leads but in its exceptional ensemble cast:
• Veronica Hamel as Joyce Davenport: The intelligent and passionate public defender who becomes Furillo’s love interest and eventual wife • James B. Sikking as Lieutenant Howard Hunter: The militaristic SWAT team leader with delusions of grandeur • Michael Warren as Officer Bobby Hill: One half of the iconic Hill-Renko partnership • Charles Haid as Officer Andy Renko: Hill’s partner, originally meant to die in the pilot but saved by audience popularity • Kiel Martin as Detective J.D. LaRue: The flawed but dedicated detective struggling with personal demons • Betty Thomas as Officer Lucy Bates: One of the first strong female police officers on television
Groundbreaking Storytelling Techniques and Innovation
Multiple Storylines and Serialization
Typical shows of the time (both dramas and sitcoms) generally had two stories in any episode, an A plot which was the main story of the episode and the smaller B plot, both of which had a beginning, middle, and end. Everything was wrapped up by the time the credits rolled at the end. Hill Street expanded that.
This expansion of storytelling possibilities was revolutionary for its time. While there were usually two main stories, there would also be two or three or more plots that were not resolved by the show’s end giving the program a lot of continuity and making it the ‘must-watch’ show of the era.
Realistic Dialogue and Overlapping Conversations
The show’s commitment to realism extended to its dialogue and sound design. Conversations were interrupted by criminals shouting as they are brought into the station and the cast of characters was so large viewers practically needed a score card to keep track.
Documentary-Style Production
The series employed documentary-style filmmaking techniques that were unprecedented in dramatic television:
- Handheld camera work that created intimacy and urgency
- Natural lighting that enhanced the gritty realism
- Overlapping dialogue that mimicked real-life conversations
- Crowded frame compositions that reflected the chaos of police work
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Emmy Dominance and Critical Acclaim
In 1981, the series won eight Emmy Awards, a debut season record surpassed only by The West Wing, in 2000. The show won a total of 26 Emmy Awards (out of 98 Emmy Award nominations) during its run, including four consecutive wins for Outstanding Drama Series.
The show’s Emmy success was unprecedented for a police drama. The show shares the record for Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series wins (4, 1981–84) with Mad Men (2008–11), L.A. Law (1987, 1989–91), Game of Thrones (2015–16, 2018–19) and The West Wing (2000–03).
Influence on Future Television Drama
Hill Street Blues established many conventions that became standard in quality television drama:
• Ensemble casts with equal development across multiple characters • Serialized storytelling that rewards loyal viewership • Moral ambiguity that reflects real-world complexity • Professional authenticity in depicting workplace environments • Character-driven narratives that prioritize development over action
The show’s influence can be seen in later acclaimed series such as NYPD Blue, ER, The West Wing, and modern prestige television dramas. More sophisticated shows now like NYPD Blue, ER & Sopranos may make HSB seem quaint by comparison, but they could never have existed if HSB hadn’t led the way.
Guest Star Platform
Big time guest stars ranged from David Caruso, Talia Balsam, Meg Tilly, Anne-Marie Johnson, Howard Rollins, Frances McDormand, Lindsay Crouse, Alfre Woodard, Morgan Woodward, Jennifer Tilly, Linda Hamilton, Danny Glover, Michael Lerner, Chris Noth, Dolph Sweet, James Remar, Ally Sheedy, Cuba Gooding Jr., Michael Biehn, CCH Pounder, Ron O’Neal, Lynn Whitfeld, James Avery, Meshach Taylor, Alan Autry, Steven Bauer, Hector Elizondo, Yaphet Kotto, Joanna Kerns, Don Cheadle, Clarence Williams III, Laurence Fishburne, Ralph Manza, Lauren Holly, to Renny Roker, Lynne Moody, Lee Weaver, Jane Kaczmarek, and Mykelti Williamson just to name a few.
Many of these guest appearances occurred before these actors achieved major stardom, showcasing the show’s ability to attract and develop talent.
Technical Excellence and Production Values
Writing Quality and Character Development
What is the key to everything? Repeat after me: Good. Writing. The script was incredibly detailed. The show’s commitment to quality writing was evident in every episode. On our scripts, we had double columns of dialogue, ’cause we scripted everything in the background. EVERYTHING in the background.
This attention to detail created a lived-in world where every character, no matter how minor, felt authentic and purposeful.
Music and Sound Design
The show’s distinctive theme music and sound design contributed significantly to its atmosphere. The jazz-influenced score perfectly complemented the urban setting and provided emotional depth to the storytelling.
Location and Set Design
While most scenes were filmed in Los Angeles, the series’ introduction shows exterior shots entirely of Chicago and cutaway shots from Chicago were used in production, with police cars resembling the color schemes of Chicago Police Department patrol vehicles. This blend of locations created a believable urban environment that felt authentically metropolitan.
Themes and Social Commentary
Urban Decay and Community
Hill Street Blues never shied away from depicting the harsh realities of urban life in the 1980s. The show addressed:
• Drug epidemics and their impact on communities • Gang violence and its cyclical nature • Economic inequality and its role in crime • Police-community relations and their complexities • Institutional corruption within law enforcement
Personal Struggles and Professional Duty
The series excelled at exploring the tension between personal desires and professional obligations. Characters frequently faced moral dilemmas that had no clear answers, reflecting the complexity of real-world police work.
Diversity and Representation
For its time, Hill Street Blues was notably diverse in its casting and storylines. During this season the show featured the first lesbian recurring character on a major network; the character was police officer Kate McBride, played by Lindsay Crouse. This groundbreaking representation occurred in the show’s final season, demonstrating its continued commitment to pushing boundaries.
Behind the Scenes: Production Stories and Cast Dynamics
Cast Chemistry and Off-Screen Relationships
We got kicked out of the Playboy Mansion – the Bunny House. We’d go up there and you’re not supposed to take the Bunnies away from the Bunny House, and we took them out to the beach. These behind-the-scenes stories reveal a cast that genuinely enjoyed working together, which translated into their on-screen chemistry.
The ensemble nature of the show created a collaborative environment where actors supported each other’s performances. I can remember the first rehearsal, standing around in groups, talking about how important it is to make this as good as it can be, because the writing was phenomenal.
Creative Challenges and Solutions
The show faced various challenges throughout its run, from budget constraints to cast changes. The show just didn’t have the same punch that it did. The seventh and final season is the weakest. It’s still worth watching and it isn’t bad by any means, but it was no longer ‘GREAT!’ it was just ‘pretty good.’
Despite these challenges, the series maintained its quality throughout most of its run, testament to the dedication of its creators and cast.
Critical Reception and Contemporary Reviews (Hill Street Blues)
Initial Critical Response
Hill Street Blues is the best cop story in a long time, a skillfull drama blending the horror of police work with the Barney Miller humor that cops sometimes need to preserve their sanity. Critics immediately recognized the show’s innovative approach and high quality.
It is a pleasure to encounter an hour of television that seems overflowing with ideas, rather than the usual attempt to inflate one or two near-ideas into passable fluff. This critical appreciation helped sustain the show despite initial low ratings.
Long-term Critical Assessment
Hill Street Blues is perhaps the best cop drama in television history. It was groundbreaking then and now! It is well-casted with a diverse ensemble. The writing is unbelievably brilliant enough to stand two decades.
The show’s reputation has only grown over time, with many critics and scholars considering it one of the most important television series ever produced.
Comparison with Contemporary Shows (Hill Street Blues)
Setting the Standard for Police Dramas
Hill Street Blues established the template that many subsequent police dramas would follow. Its influence can be seen in shows like:
• NYPD Blue – Steven Bochco’s follow-up series • Homicide: Life on the Street – Similar documentary style and moral complexity • The Wire – Expanded social commentary and realistic portrayal • The Shield – Morally ambiguous characters and serialized storytelling
Impact on Television Drama Generally
The show’s influence extended beyond police dramas to television drama as a whole. The show was incredibly successful too, proving that US viewers could follow complex plots and stories that unraveled over the course of weeks rather than minutes.
For those interested in exploring more about television’s golden age and how shows like Hill Street Blues influenced modern entertainment, you can find comprehensive reviews and analysis at HablemosMoney, which offers detailed examinations of classic and contemporary film and television.
Awards and Recognition (Hill Street Blues)
Emmy Award Success
The show’s Emmy success was unprecedented:
- 1982: 8 Emmy wins (debut season record)
- 1983: 6 Emmy wins including Outstanding Drama Series
- 1984: 4 Emmy wins including Outstanding Drama Series
- 1985: 3 Emmy wins including Outstanding Drama Series
- 1986: 2 Emmy wins including Outstanding Drama Series
Other Accolades
• Golden Globe Awards for Best Television Drama Series • Writers Guild Awards for Outstanding Writing • Directors Guild Awards for Outstanding Direction • Edgar Award for Best Teleplay from a Series (pilot episode)
Industry Recognition
According to the Writers Guild of America, Hill Street Blues ranks among the best-written television series of all time, recognizing its contribution to elevating television writing standards.
Home Video and Streaming Legacy (Hill Street Blues)
DVD and Blu-ray Releases
After Fox released the first season of Hill Street Blues in 2005, fans thought they’d soon be able to own the entire series on DVD, but that wasn’t the case. Season Two was released in 2006 and then… nothing. At long last Shout! Factory has come to the rescue and released the entire series, all seven seasons and 144 episodes, in a 34-disc collection including a disc solely devoted to extras.
Modern Accessibility
The complete series availability has allowed new generations to discover Hill Street Blues and understand its revolutionary impact on television storytelling.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Hill Street Blues
As Hill Street Blues concluded its remarkable seven-season journey in 1987, it left behind a transformed television landscape. Hill Street Blues was truly a groundbreaking show. Running from 1981 to 1987, it influenced the face of television and was arguably the show that blazed the trail for the Second Golden age of Television.
The series proved that television audiences were capable of following complex, serialized narratives and that the medium could tackle serious social issues while maintaining entertainment value. Its influence on subsequent television drama cannot be overstated – from NYPD Blue to The Wire to modern prestige television, the DNA of Hill Street Blues can be found throughout quality television drama.
Key reasons why Hill Street Blues remains essential viewing:
• Revolutionary storytelling techniques that established modern television narrative conventions • Outstanding ensemble acting that created believable, complex characters • Social relevance that addressed important issues of urban life and policing • Technical innovation in cinematography and sound design • Cultural impact that influenced decades of subsequent television production
Watching it now for maybe the 4th or 5th time, I’m still amazed at the depth & range of characterization, not to mention the added kick of spotting well-known actors like Danny Glover, Forest Whitaker & David Caruso who appeared on the show before they made it big.
Hill Street Blues stands as a testament to the power of television as an artistic medium. Its combination of realistic storytelling, complex characters, and social consciousness created a template for quality television that continues to influence creators today. For anyone interested in understanding the evolution of television drama or simply experiencing one of the medium’s greatest achievements, Hill Street Blues remains essential viewing.
The show’s final episode aired on May 12, 1987, but its legacy continues to resonate through contemporary television drama. In an era where serialized storytelling and ensemble casts are the norm rather than the exception, Hill Street Blues deserves recognition as the pioneering series that proved television could be both entertaining and artistically ambitious.
Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5 stars)
Hill Street Blues earns its five-star rating through its revolutionary approach to television storytelling, exceptional ensemble acting, and lasting cultural impact. While the final season may not reach the heights of the series’ peak years, the overall achievement represents one of television’s greatest accomplishments. The series successfully transformed expectations for what television drama could achieve and established conventions that continue to define quality television today.
Hill Street Blues remains available for streaming and home video purchase, allowing new generations to discover this groundbreaking series that changed television forever.
Leave a Reply