Watch Quantum Leap

Quantum Leap was a science fiction television series that aired on NBC from 1989-1993. The show starred Scott Bakula as Dr. Sam Beckett, a brilliant scientist who becomes lost in time and travels from one body to another in order to correct historical mistakes. Accompanied by his holographic sidekick, Al (played by Dean Stockwell), Sam uses his knowledge of history and science to set things right and find his way back home.

The show's premise centered around Sam's ability to "leap" from one person to another, an action that occurred unpredictably and without warning. Upon leaping, Sam would often find himself in a completely different time period, with no idea how or why he had arrived there. Al, who appeared only to Sam, provided him with guidance and information, acting as a sort of co-pilot for Sam's time-traveling adventures.

Throughout the course of the show, Sam leapt into a wide range of characters, including a woman, a teenager, an elderly man, and even a chimpanzee. These leaps allowed the show's writers to tackle a variety of topics and historical events, from the Civil Rights Movement to the JFK assassination to the first moon landing.

Quantum Leap was known for its mix of sci-fi elements and emotional storylines. While the show's time-traveling aspect provided plenty of excitement and action, it was the human drama that kept viewers coming back each week. Sam's leaps often involved solving a personal problem or righting a wrong in someone's life, and these moments of redemption and growth made for powerful television.

In addition to Bakula and Stockwell, Quantum Leap featured a rotating cast of supporting actors who played the various characters into which Sam leaped. These included notable actors such as Patrick Warburton, Andrea Thompson, David Newsom, Ernie Lively, and Tia Carrere. Each episode was self-contained, with Sam's mission of the week being wrapped up by the end of the hour.

Despite its popularity and critical acclaim, Quantum Leap ended after five seasons due to a dispute between the show's producers and the network over budget issues. The show remains a beloved cult favorite, with fans still discussing the possibilities of a revival or reboot to this day.

Quantum Leap is a series that is currently running and has 5 seasons (111 episodes). The series first aired on March 26, 1989.