The last episode of Murphy Brown, titled “A Lifetime of Achievement”, aired on December 27, 2018, marking the conclusion of the revival series and the overall end of the groundbreaking sitcom that originally ran from 1988 to 1998. This final episode, broadcast on CBS, brought closure to the revived characters’ journeys while subtly echoing the themes of social and political commentary that defined the show’s legacy.
Delving into “A Lifetime of Achievement”: The Final Chapter
The 2018 revival season, while garnering attention for its return and topical humor, ultimately concluded with “A Lifetime of Achievement.” The episode primarily revolved around Murphy Brown, played by the iconic Candice Bergen, receiving a lifetime achievement award and grappling with the implications of her career and influence. The narrative intertwined professional recognition with personal reflections, allowing the audience to witness Murphy at a reflective stage of her life.
The episode addressed topical issues, as was customary for Murphy Brown. It touched on the challenges faced by women in journalism, the influence of social media, and the importance of journalistic integrity in a rapidly changing media landscape. These themes were woven into the narrative, giving the episode a contemporary relevance and reflecting the show’s commitment to engaging with current events.
Furthermore, the episode provided closure for many of the supporting characters, allowing viewers to see how their lives had evolved. Corky Sherwood (Faith Ford), Miles Silverberg (Grant Shaud), and Frank Fontana (Joe Regalbuto) all played significant roles, reinforcing the strong ensemble cast that contributed to the show’s success. The dynamic between these characters, built over decades, provided both comedic moments and poignant reflections on their shared history and enduring friendships. The episode also included appearances by other recurring characters, adding to the sense of finality and providing a satisfying conclusion for long-time fans.
Legacy and Impact
The final episode, while not achieving the same cultural impact as some of the show’s earlier controversies (particularly the Dan Quayle incident), served as a reminder of Murphy Brown‘s legacy as a pioneer in television. The series consistently tackled important social and political issues, often from a feminist perspective, and challenged conventional portrayals of women on television. The revival, and its final episode, attempted to re-engage with these themes in a modern context, reminding viewers of the show’s historical significance and ongoing relevance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Finale and Murphy Brown
Here are some frequently asked questions about the final episode of Murphy Brown and the series as a whole:
Q1: Why was the Murphy Brown revival cancelled after only one season?
The revival was cancelled due to lower-than-expected ratings. While the show garnered initial interest and positive reviews for its topical commentary, it failed to maintain a consistent viewership throughout the season. The network ultimately decided not to renew the series for a second season, citing the need to pursue other programming options.
Q2: What was the biggest criticism of the revival season?
One of the main criticisms was that the revival felt too preachy and partisan. Some viewers felt that the show’s focus on political commentary overshadowed the humor and character development that had made the original series so popular. Others criticized the show for being too heavily focused on attacking the Trump administration.
Q3: Did the finale address Murphy’s son, Avery?
Yes, Avery Brown (Jake McDorman) was present in the finale. The episode touched upon the relationship between Murphy and Avery, highlighting their differing political views and career paths. Avery, a journalist with more conservative leanings, provided a contrast to his mother’s liberal perspectives, adding another layer to the show’s exploration of contemporary issues.
Q4: What kind of lifetime achievement award did Murphy receive?
The award was presented by the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences and recognized Murphy’s significant contributions to broadcast journalism. The award ceremony served as the backdrop for much of the episode’s narrative, allowing for reflection on Murphy’s career and its impact on the media landscape.
Q5: How did the finale compare to the original series finale?
The original series finale in 1998 focused more on Murphy’s role as a single mother and the challenges of raising a child while balancing a demanding career. The 2018 finale, in contrast, placed a greater emphasis on Murphy’s professional legacy and her contributions to journalism. Both finales, however, acknowledged the importance of family and friendship in Murphy’s life.
Q6: Where can I watch the original Murphy Brown series and the revival?
Both the original series and the revival are available for purchase on various streaming platforms such as Amazon Prime Video and iTunes. Check your local streaming services for availability. Some older episodes might also be found on YouTube.
Q7: Was Candice Bergen happy with the Murphy Brown revival?
While Candice Bergen enjoyed reprising her role as Murphy Brown, she also acknowledged the challenges of reviving a beloved series in a vastly different media landscape. She expressed satisfaction with the show’s attempts to engage with contemporary issues but also recognized the difficulties of maintaining a large audience in the age of streaming. In various interviews, she seemed to accept the cancellation with equanimity.
Q8: Will there ever be another Murphy Brown revival?
It’s unlikely that there will be another Murphy Brown revival in the near future. The cancellation of the 2018 season suggests that there is limited audience interest in the show’s return. However, with the cyclical nature of television revivals, it is impossible to rule out the possibility entirely.
Q9: What was the significance of the FYI news team in the finale?
The presence of the FYI news team – Corky, Miles, and Frank – was crucial to the episode’s sense of closure. These characters represented Murphy’s closest friends and colleagues, and their participation in the award ceremony and subsequent celebrations highlighted the importance of these relationships in her life. Their interactions provided comedic relief and poignant moments, reinforcing the themes of friendship and loyalty that ran throughout the series.
Q10: How did the finale incorporate social media?
The finale touched upon the influence of social media on journalism and the challenges of navigating a rapidly changing media landscape. Murphy’s interactions with younger journalists and her attempts to adapt to new technologies highlighted the importance of staying relevant in the digital age. The episode also addressed the potential for social media to be used for misinformation and the need for responsible journalism.
Q11: What made Murphy Brown such a groundbreaking show in its time?
Murphy Brown was groundbreaking for its portrayal of a strong, independent woman who challenged societal norms and expectations. The show tackled controversial issues such as single motherhood, abortion, and political correctness, often sparking national debates. Candice Bergen’s performance as Murphy Brown was widely praised, and the show helped to pave the way for other female-led comedies on television.
Q12: Did the finale have any cameos from notable figures?
While the episode didn’t feature any prominent celebrity cameos in the same way some earlier episodes had, it focused more on bringing back recurring characters and emphasizing the core cast. The emphasis was placed on wrapping up existing storylines rather than introducing new characters or guest stars. The sense of cameo came from the recognition and appreciation of the existing cast and their decades-long connection.