Johnny Carson, the legendary late-night host, ventured into the world of primetime sitcoms with an intriguing concept. The result, a show titled 'Mr. President,' featured an all-star cast led by the iconic George C. Scott. However, this venture into the world of politics and comedy proved to be a short-lived and tumultuous experience, leaving a bitter taste for its lead actor.
The Birth of 'Mr. President'
'Mr. President' emerged from a personal pitch by Carson to Scott, envisioning a half-hour comedy series centered around the daily life of a president. Scott, known for his Oscar-winning performance in 'Patton,' was intrigued by the idea of bringing a human touch to the political arena. The show aimed to showcase the domestic side of politics, focusing on the newly elected President Samuel Arthur Tresch and his chaotic family life.
A Star-Studded Cast
The supporting cast was equally impressive, featuring Carlin Glynn as the First Lady and Conrad Bain, known for his role in 'Diff'rent Strokes,' as the Chief of Staff. The addition of comedy legend Madeline Kahn as the president's sister-in-law further elevated the show's potential. Scott, in particular, was drawn to the idea of a guaranteed 13-episode run on the newly launched Fox Broadcasting Company.
A Troubled Production
However, the production of 'Mr. President' was far from smooth sailing. Scott described the working situation as "positively Byzantine," with chronic delays in scripts, time, and, most importantly, quality. He believed that his insistence on perfection would have halted the entire production, leading to potential legal battles. The tone of the show fluctuated wildly, shifting from family drama to standard sitcom fare, and even the First Lady's character walked out at the start of Season 2.
A Premature End
Unfortunately, the show's troubles led to its cancellation near the end of 1987, with only 24 episodes aired. The abrupt end was likely a relief for Scott, who was notoriously unhappy with the show's outcome. In a scathing article, he criticized the show's legacy, stating, "We could have done worse. As it is, we succeeded only in trivializing the presidency."
A Forgotten Experiment
'Mr. President' remains a forgotten experiment in Carson's career, a brief detour into the world of primetime sitcoms. While the concept had potential, the execution fell short, leaving a sour taste for its star. It serves as a reminder that even the most talented individuals can encounter challenges when stepping into unfamiliar territories. Personally, I find it fascinating how a simple pitch can lead to such a tumultuous journey, and it raises questions about the fine line between ambition and reality in the entertainment industry.
