Television history is replete with iconic sitcoms that have left an indelible mark on the medium. One such show, "Benson," which aired from 1979 to 1986, is a prime example of a series that not only entertained audiences but also broke barriers and redefined the landscape of television comedy. Created by Susan Harris as a spin-off of her earlier hit show "Soap," "Benson" managed to tackle serious social and political issues while maintaining a comedic tone. This article delves into the world of "Benson" and its impact on television, exploring its characters, themes, cultural significance, and enduring popularity.
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The Genesis of "Benson"
To truly understand the significance of "Benson," it's essential to trace its origins back to "Soap." "Soap," which aired from 1977 to 1981, was a groundbreaking show in its own right, as it combined traditional soap opera elements with dark comedy. Susan Harris's vision for "Soap" was to parody the melodramatic nature of soap operas, and in doing so, she created a character named Benson DuBois, portrayed by Robert Guillaume.
Benson was a butler in the fictional Tate family household, and his dry wit and sharp one-liners made him a standout character in "Soap." This character's popularity soon led to the idea of a spin-off, and in 1979, "Benson" was born.
"Benson" was unique in that it took a character from a show known for its edgy humor and placed him in a more traditional sitcom format. This transition allowed the show to explore themes beyond soap opera parodies and opened the door for social and political commentary.
The Characters of "Benson"
Benson DuBois (Robert Guillaume): At the center of the show was Benson DuBois, who had risen from being a butler in the Tate household to becoming the head of household affairs in his own right. Benson was sharp, intelligent, and often used humor as a defense mechanism. His character was a symbol of African American empowerment during a time when such representation was sorely lacking in television.
Governor Eugene Gatling (James Noble): Governor Gatling was the bumbling and often clueless head of the mansion where Benson worked. Despite his lack of political savvy, he was a well-meaning character who often found himself in comedic situations. The dynamic between Benson and Governor Gatling provided ample opportunities for humor and commentary on the political landscape.
Marcy Hill (Caroline McWilliams): Marcy served as the governor's secretary and often found herself caught in the crossfire of the political and personal antics at the mansion. She was an intelligent and independent character, providing a contrast to some of the more absurd characters in the show.
Pete Downey (Ethan Phillips): Pete Downey was the mansion's handyman, and his quirky personality and interactions with Benson and the other characters added another layer of comedy to the show. His character was emblematic of the eccentric personalities that "Benson" used to deliver its humor.
Denise and Clayton Endicott III (Inga Swenson and Lewis J. Stadlen): Denise was the mansion's chef, and Clayton was the head of household affairs before Benson's promotion. These two characters often clashed with Benson, creating comedic tension and contributing to the ensemble cast's chemistry.
Themes and Social Commentary
Race and Class: "Benson" was notable for its portrayal of an African American character in a position of authority during a time when racial diversity on television was limited. The show used Benson's rise from butler to head of household affairs as a metaphor for the broader struggle for racial equality. It portrayed the challenges he faced as a black man in a predominantly white world, providing a platform to discuss important social issues.
Political Satire: The show's political setting allowed it to satirize the political landscape of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Governor Gatling's ineptitude and the quirky characters surrounding him provided ample material for political commentary. "Benson" often used humor to critique political decisions and the absurdity of government.
Women's Empowerment: Marcy Hill's character was a strong, independent woman working in a male-dominated field. Her presence on the show was a reflection of the changing role of women in the workplace during that era. "Benson" subtly tackled gender stereotypes and showcased the importance of gender equality.
Family and Relationships: The show explored the concept of family in unconventional ways. The characters in the mansion formed their own dysfunctional yet endearing family, and their relationships and interactions were central to the show's charm. "Benson" demonstrated that family could be found in unexpected places.
Cultural Significance
"Benson" was not just a sitcom; it was a cultural milestone. It challenged the norms of the time by featuring a black character in a position of power, defying the racial stereotypes prevalent in many television shows. The show confronted political and social issues head-on, often using humor to make its points. It offered audiences a unique blend of satire, comedy, and character-driven drama, all set in a political backdrop.
Robert Guillaume's portrayal of Benson DuBois earned him two Emmy Awards and made him one of the first African American actors to win the prestigious award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series. His character inspired and paved the way for greater diversity in television.
The show also offered a different kind of comedy. While it had its fair share of slapstick humor, "Benson" was not afraid to tackle complex issues with nuance and subtlety. This approach endeared it to a broad range of viewers and made it a show that could be enjoyed on multiple levels.
Furthermore, the show's diverse cast and their unique characters allowed "Benson" to address social issues with a personal touch. Audiences could relate to the characters and their struggles, which made the social commentary even more impactful.
The Enduring Popularity of "Benson"
Even though "Benson" ended its run in 1986, it has not been forgotten. The show continues to have a dedicated fan base, and it remains an important part of television history. Several factors contribute to its enduring popularity:
Representation: "Benson" is celebrated for its groundbreaking portrayal of an African American character in a position of authority. In an era when diversity in television was scarce, Benson DuBois was a symbol of empowerment. The show's legacy in promoting racial equality continues to resonate with viewers.
Timeless Themes: The show's themes of empowerment, political satire, and family dynamics are timeless and continue to be relevant today. The issues it tackled, from racial equality to gender roles, are still part of the ongoing cultural conversation.
Memorable Characters: The characters on "Benson" were richly developed and memorable. Benson DuBois, in particular, remains an iconic character in television history. The chemistry among the cast members and the witty writing contributed to the show's charm.
Social Commentary: "Benson" was more than just a comedy; it was a platform for social commentary. Its ability to address important issues while making viewers laugh set it apart from other sitcoms of its time.
Influence on Future Shows: "Benson" paved the way for future television shows to explore social and political themes while maintaining a comedic tone. It demonstrated that sitcoms could be a powerful medium for societal critique.
Conclusion
"Benson" (1979-1986) is not just a classic sitcom; it's a trailblazer that left an indelible mark on the television landscape. By featuring an African American character in a position of power and using humor to address important social and political issues, the show challenged the norms of its time. It remains an enduring symbol of empowerment, diversity, and the power of television to drive cultural change. The legacy of "Benson" continues to influence the world of television, reminding us that humor can be a powerful tool for social commentary and change.