Do You Remember the TV Series ‘9 to 5’ in the ’80s?
On March 25, 1982, television audiences were introduced to 9 to 5, a sitcom based on the hit 1980 film of the same name. Airing on ABC, the series sought to capture the success, humor and workplace antics of the original movie while translating its themes into a weekly television format. The show starred Rachel Dennison, the younger sister of Dolly Parton, reprising Parton’s role as Doralee Rhodes. Joining her were Rita Moreno as Violet Newstead, originally played by Lily Tomlin, and Valerie Curtin stepping into Jane Fonda‘s role as Judy Bernly. While the premise remained similar — three working women navigating office politics under an incompetent boss — the transition to television involved notable changes that didn’t always work.
Initially, the series featured Jeffrey Tambor as Franklin Hart, the role made famous by Dabney Coleman in the film. However, after the first season, Peter Bonerz took over the character. Another key figure from the film, Roz Keith, Mr. Hart’s loyal but nosy assistant, was portrayed by British actress Jean Marsh. The show’s first season maintained a strong connection to its cinematic roots, even incorporating clips from the movie trailer in the opening credits.
20th Century Fox Film Corp./Everett Collection
The debut season consisted of only four episodes and was filmed in front of a live studio audience. It performed well in the ratings, ranking at No. 33. It quickly expanded in its second season, adding new characters like Herb Edelman‘s Harry Nussbaum, a friendly salesman who supported the trio in their struggles against Mr. Hart. The show’s popularity surged, with Season 2 climbing to the No. 15 spot in Nielsen rankings.
20th Century Fox Film Corp./Everett Collection
Despite this success, the series faced challenges, including frequent cast changes. Before the third season, Jane Fonda, who had served as an executive producer, exited over creative differences, leading to further behind-the-scenes shifts. The show was retooled with a new producer, James Komack, and cast adjustments, including Leah Ayres replacing Curtin’s Judy with a younger character named Linda Bowman. The changes failed to resonate with audiences, and ABC canceled the series just five episodes into the third season. However, 9 to 5 wasn’t finished. The show found a second life in first-run syndication in 1986, with Sally Struthers joining as Marsha McMurray Shrimpton, a new lead character. Dennison and Curtin returned, and the office setting changed yet again, this time to Barkley Foods International. The syndicated run lasted two more seasons, concluding in 1988 with a total of 85 episodes.
Throughout its run, the series maintained the iconic 9 to 5 theme song but with a twist. Initially performed by Phoebe Snow during the first season, the show later reverted to Parton’s original version, reinforcing its connection to the beloved film. Though it never reached the movie’s cultural impact, 9 to 5 remains a noteworthy attempt to extend the story of three working women fighting against workplace oppression. For fans of the show who want to rewatch it? You are out of luck; it currently is not streaming or airing on TV.
Remind 
’80s Where Are They Now
March 2023
Who can forget all the great TV shows, movies and music of the ‘80s? See what your favs are up to now!
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