Watch Perfect Strangers

Perfect Strangers is an American sitcom that aired on ABC from 1986 to 1993. The show is centered around the lives of two cousins, Balki Bartokomous and Larry Appleton, who are complete opposites in every way, except for their love for adventure and exploring new frontiers. Bronson Pinchot plays the role of Balki Bartokomous, a naive, innocent and comical individual from the fictional Mediterranean country of Mypos, while Mark Linn-Baker portrays Larry Appleton, a more serious, uptight and hardworking character from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The show explores the cultural differences between Balki and Larry as they navigate their way through their personal and professional lives in Chicago.

The show begins when Balki Bartokomous, a sheepherder from Mypos, arrives in the United States in search of his distant cousin, Larry Appleton. Larry agrees to let Balki stay with him in his Chicago apartment, but finds himself constantly frustrated with Balki's lack of knowledge about American culture and constant antics. Despite their differences, the two cousins quickly form a strong bond and become the best of friends. As the show progresses, viewers watch Balki and Larry's friendship grow as they navigate their way through the ups and downs of life in Chicago.

Along with Balki and Larry, the show features a number of recurring characters, including Mary Anne Spencer, Jennifer Lyons, Harriette Winslow, and Twinkacetti. Lise Cutter plays the role of Mary Anne Spencer, Larry's girlfriend, who works as a flight attendant for American Airlines. Jennifer Lyons is a recurring character in season one who works at the Ritz Discount Store with Larry and Balki. Harriette Winslow, played by Jo Marie Payton in season one, later becomes a regular cast member on the show Family Matters, and Twinkacetti, portrayed by Ernie Sabella, is the owner of the Ritz Discount Store where Larry and Balki work.

Throughout the show, Balki and Larry experience numerous adventures and hijinks that often lead to comedic mishaps. Some of these adventures include opening a restaurant, going on a camping trip, and performing on stage as actors. The humor in the show is often derived from the stark contrast between Balki's naivete and Larry's expertise. Balki's struggle to adapt to American culture and his often-hilarious misinterpretations of common phrases and customs consistently keep the show's viewers laughing.

The show's cast is rounded out by a number of talented actors, including Belita Moreno, who plays the role of Lydia Markham, the Appleton's nosy neighbor, and Melanie Wilson, who portrays Jennifer Lyons in the later seasons of the show. Rebeca Arthur plays the role of Mary Anne Spencer, Larry's girlfriend in the later seasons, and Sam Anderson appears as a recurring character, Merrill Twain.

Perfect Strangers proved to be a huge hit with audiences during its seven-year run and garnered a large following of devoted fans. The show tackled important themes such as friendship, family, love, and cultural differences, and dealt with these themes in a lighthearted and comical way. Many fans of the show appreciate its ability to make them laugh while also providing a more meaningful underlying message.

In conclusion, Perfect Strangers is a classic example of the classic sitcom that dominated television in the late 80s and early 90s. The show's lovable characters, hilarious antics, and important themes continue to resonate with audiences today, and it remains a fan favorite among sitcom enthusiasts. The show's enduring legacy is a testament to its cast, writers, and creators, who were able to create a show that was both hilarious and heartfelt.

Perfect Strangers is a series that is currently running and has 8 seasons (154 episodes). The series first aired on September 17, 1986.