Watch Spenser: For Hire
- TV-14
- 1985
- 3 Seasons
-
7.3 (3,196)
Spenser: For Hire was an American detective drama series that aired on ABC from 1985 to 1988. The show was based on Robert B. Parker's bestselling mystery novels, and starred Robert Urich as the titular character, Spenser, a private investigator who solves crimes in and around Boston.
Spenser is a former police officer who lost his job when he refused to go along with some corrupt cops. Now, he works as a freelance detective with his partner and close friend, Hawk, played by the talented Avery Brooks. Hawk is a tough, streetwise enforcer who always has Spenser's back.
The show's main setting is Boston, and the city is as much a character in the series as the people who inhabit it. The city's neighborhoods, its distinct cultures, and its history all play a role in the show. Spenser's cases bring him into contact with a wide variety of characters, from mobsters to politicians, from rich socialites to working-class heroes.
Barbara Stock plays Spenser's girlfriend, Susan Silverman, a brilliant psychologist who often helps him with his cases. Ron McLarty is Sgt. Frank Belson, a Boston police detective who is often at odds with Spenser but occasionally helps him out. Carolyn McCormick is Rita Fiori, a reporter who sometimes hires Spenser to find a story. Richard Jaeckel rounds out the regular cast as Lt. Quirk, an old-fashioned cop who is always trying to retire but never seems to be able to do so.
Each episode of Spenser: For Hire is self-contained and tells a different story, but there are some overarching elements that develop over the course of the series. Spenser's relationship with Susan evolves and deepens, as does his friendship with Hawk. The show touches on themes such as loyalty, justice, and redemption.
One of the strengths of Spenser: For Hire is its cast. Urich is perfect as Spenser, portraying the character's relentless sense of justice and his dry wit with equal aplomb. Brooks is equally excellent as Hawk, bringing both intelligence and emotional depth to the role. Stock's Susan Silverman is a great foil for Spenser, providing a counterbalance to his toughness with her intelligence and compassion.
Another strength of the show is its writing. The scripts are sharp and witty without being overly clever, and the dialogue crackles with energy. The characters are fully realized, with their flaws and virtues on full display. The show also has a great sense of place, and the Boston locations are used to great effect.
Spenser: For Hire was a critical and commercial success during its run. It was particularly popular with fans of the books, who appreciated the faithful adaptation of Parker's work. The show was also praised for its intelligent writing, strong performances, and attention to detail.
In conclusion, Spenser: For Hire was a terrific detective drama series that ran on ABC from 1985 to 1988. It starred Robert Urich as Spenser, a private investigator who solves crimes with the help of his friend Hawk, played by Avery Brooks. The show was known for its strong writing, excellent cast, and attention to detail, particularly in its depiction of Boston. Fans of the books and fans of detective shows alike will appreciate Spenser: For Hire for its intelligence, wit, and emotional depth.
Spenser: For Hire is a series that is currently running and has 3 seasons (66 episodes). The series first aired on September 20, 1985.
