What is the premise of Marcus Welby, M.D.?
The series follows Dr. Marcus Welby, a kind family practitioner in Santa Monica who balances patient care, community life, and occasional house calls.
Who are the main characters?
Robert Young plays Dr. Marcus Welby; James Brolin is the younger Dr. Steve Kiley; Elena Verdugo appears as nurse Consuelo Lopez.
When did the show first air?
It premiered on September 23, 1969, after its pilot movie aired on March 26, 1969.
How many seasons and episodes were produced?
The show ran for seven seasons, totaling 169 episodes.
Did the series win any awards?
Yes; it earned Emmys for Young and Brolin and a Golden Globe for Best Television Drama.
What types of medical issues were covered?
Episodes explored conditions like sickle cell anemia, autism, drug addiction, leukemia, and controversial topics such as abortion.
Why was the show controversial?
Some episodes addressed sensitive subjects like interracial marriage and homosexuality, sparking protests and refusal to air by certain affiliates.
Was the series ever canceled?
The series ended in 1976 after seven seasons, after declining ratings and changing network priorities.
What happened to Marcus Welby after the series?
Two TV movies continued Welby’s story in the 1980s: "The Return of Marcus Welby, M.D." and "Marcus Welby, M.D.: A Holiday Affair."
Is there a pilot episode?
Yes, the pilot titled "A Matter of Humanities" aired as an ABC Movie of the Week in 1969.
What is the tone of the series?
The show is calm, reflective, and focuses on empathy, with a slow-burn storytelling pace.
Does the show feature a romantic subplot?
Yes, Dr. Steve Kiley develops a relationship with a hospital PR director, culminating in marriage in the final season.
Is there a recurring antagonist?
The series rarely features a single antagonist; storylines focus on medical cases and social dilemmas.
How does the show address family life?
Welby’s practice often involves his family members, and episodes include his daughter and grandson as the series progresses.
What is the significance of the title?
Marcus Welby is the central character; the title emphasizes his role as a medical professional (M.D.) in the drama.
What was the show’s impact on medical dramas?
It set a precedent for realistic medical storytelling and influenced later family‑medicine series.
Did the series feature any guest stars?
Yes, the show regularly invited notable actors for patient roles, adding depth to individual episodes.
Was the show filmed in a single location?
Welby’s office is set in a home-based clinic in Santa Monica, with occasional hospital scenes.
Is the show still available to watch?
Episodes can be found on streaming services and DVD collections; availability varies by region.
What themes does the show explore?
Themes include compassion, medical ethics, patient autonomy, and societal change reflected through casework.
How does the show handle the portrayal of physicians?
Doctors are depicted as empathetic professionals with personal warmth, avoiding dramatic sensationalism.
Was the series known for any particular production quality?
It was praised for medical accuracy and technical advisers ensuring realistic procedures.