It Takes Two

"It Takes Two" was a mild sitcom designed as a vehicle for the interesting pairing of Richard Crenna and Patty Duke (Astin), though it is usually remembered now as the first regular series roles for Anthony Edwards and Helen Hunt. For such a sensational cast, the show itself was nothing special: it was well-acted and looked good, but wasn't all that funny or interesting. The grandmother of the house, played by Billie Bird, was hysterical, though might offend a Gray Panther--she was clearly a senile stereotype. I think the producers thought assembling a Grade-A cast was enough to ensure a long run, but as many have learned before and since, it just isn't so.