Sezonas
Epizodas
Grotuvo serveris
Designing Women
19867
Komedijos
Išleido
1986-09-29
Šalis
Jungtinės Valstijos
Produkcijos
Columbia Pictures TelevisionMozark ProductionsEmbassy Television
Julia Sugarbaker, Mary Jo Shively, Charlene Frazier-Stillfield and Suzanne Sugarbaker are associates at their design firm, Sugarbaker and Associates. Julia is the owner and is very outspoken and strong-willed. Mary Jo is a divorced single-parent whom is just as strong-willed as Julia, but isn't as self-confident. Charlene is the naive and trusting farm girl from Poplar Bluff, Missouri. Suzanne is the self-centered ex-beauty queen whom has a number of wealthy ex-husbands.
About
Quick guide
Four strong women run a design firm in Atlanta, balancing business, politics, and personal drama with sharp wit. A sitcom that blends humor and heart while tackling gender and social issues.
Designing Women (1986‑1993) is a sitcom that follows four ambitious designers in Atlanta—Julia Sugarbaker, Mary Jo Shively, Charlene Frazier‑Stillfield, and Suzanne Sugarbaker—who run a boutique firm while juggling careers, politics, and personal lives. The series blends sharp humor with commentary on gender, business, and Southern culture. The show is known for its witty dialogue, strong female friendships, and willingness to touch on social issues with a light, engaging tone. Over seven seasons, viewers followed their professional triumphs and personal trials. Throughout its run, the ensemble tackled topics from workplace sexism to family dynamics, all while delivering memorable one‑liners and heartfelt moments that resonated with audiences.
What to know
- Set in Atlanta’s design world with a boutique firm.
- Strong female leads with distinct personalities.
- Humor mixes with social commentary on gender and politics.
- Seven seasons, 171 episodes, 1986‑1993.
- Theme song “Something to Talk About” by Shirley Eikhard.
- Writers draw from real life and contemporary politics.
- Received Emmy nominations for writing and acting.
- Characters often balance career ambitions with family life.
Watch if
If you enjoy sharp, character-driven humor that tackles real‑life issues with a light touch—think of The Golden Girls or Friends—Designing Women will appeal. Its witty dialogue, strong female leads, and relatable workplace drama offer a refreshing sitcom experience.
Skip if
Skip if you prefer slapstick or heavy drama. The show leans on clever banter and social commentary, not high‑stakes conflict or melodrama. It may feel slow for viewers who want more action or constant plot twists.
dialogue heavylight tonepolitical themesmature themesromance elementsfamily friendlylanguage somelanguage strong
Series Premise
Set in Atlanta, the show centers on Sugarbaker & Associates, a boutique design firm led by Julia Sugarbaker. The firm’s projects range from residential make‑overs to high‑profile corporate events. The series follows the staff’s daily challenges, balancing creative ambition with the business realities of running a small company.
Main Characters
Julia Sugarbaker – The outspoken owner, known for her sharp wit and business acumen. Mary Jo Shively – A divorced single‑parent who balances motherhood with ambition. Charlene Frazier‑Stillfield – A naive farm girl from Missouri who brings fresh optimism. Suzanne Sugarbaker – A former beauty queen, self‑centered yet charming.
Seasonal Journey
The series ran for seven seasons, beginning in 1986 and concluding in 1993. Over its run, the firm’s roster grew with new hires and departures, reflecting shifts in the cast lineup. Each season introduced fresh story arcs while maintaining core friendships and workplace challenges.
Social Themes
Designing Women tackled topics such as workplace sexism, politics, family dynamics, and the balance between career and personal life. The show blended humor with social critique, offering a platform for feminist dialogue and reflecting the evolving role of women in the 1980s and early 1990s.
Behind the Scenes
Created by Linda Bloodworth‑Thomason, the show was produced by CBS and later distributed by Paramount. Writers often drew from real life, infusing episodes with contemporary political references and Southern humor. The series’ success relied on strong character chemistry and a supportive production crew.
Reception & Awards
The series received positive reviews for its sharp wit and strong female leads. It earned multiple Emmy nominations, particularly for writing and acting. Critics praised its balance of humor and social relevance, while audiences appreciated its relatable characters and realistic workplace setting.
Legacy & Influence
Designing Women set a precedent for female‑led sitcoms, influencing later shows that blend humor with social commentary. Its portrayal of career women navigating business and personal challenges remains relevant, and the series continues to be celebrated for its progressive message and enduring charm.
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FAQ
25 Q&A
How did Linda Bloodworth‑Thomason’s relationship with the Clintons inspire the creation of the show?
Linda Bloodworth‑Thomason was inspired by her friendship with President Clinton and the political climate, using the show to offer a female perspective on politics and business.
Didn't Linda and Delta Burke swear to never work together again?
After a disagreement on set, Linda and Delta Burke briefly vowed not to work together. The conflict was later resolved and they maintained a professional relationship.
Where did the retarded brother come from? Was he ever mentioned on Designing Women?
The character of Jim Sugarbaker was created for a specific episode and never referenced again. He is not part of the main storyline in the series.
When did Suzanne adopt little Desiree?
Suzanne adopted Desiree during the show’s mid‑run; the storyline was presented as part of her character’s personal development, not a central plot point.
Why all the cast changes involving Malone and Veda?
The role of Malone and Veda underwent casting changes due to scheduling conflicts and creative decisions, reflecting the show’s evolving supporting cast.
Who was Suzanne married to after Designing Women?
After the series ended, Suzanne was married to a character named Ray, a Republican representative, though details about subsequent marriages are not explored.
Did any of the characters from Designing Women ever appear on the series?
A few characters from the series made cameo appearances in other shows; the majority of the characters remained within the original narrative.
What happened to Consuela?
Consuela, Suzanne’s maid, left after the series concluded. She was not referenced after her departure.
Didn't Suzanne have a dog?
Suzanne owned a dog named Randy during the series, a small detail adding humor to her household.
What was the series’ theme song?
The theme song was “Something to Talk About,” written by Shirley Eikhard and featured in the opening credits.
Why was the series canceled?
Declining viewership, cast changes, and network scheduling decisions led to the show’s cancellation after season seven.
Is Women of the House available on DVD?
Yes; Women of the House is available on DVD and digital platforms like Amazon.
How many seasons and episodes does Designing Women have?
The show ran for seven seasons, with a total of 171 episodes produced over its run from 1986 to 1993.
What was the original network and time slot?
It originally aired on CBS, typically scheduled on Wednesdays in a 9:30‑10:00 p.m. slot.
Who were the executive producers and writers?
Linda Bloodworth‑Thomason served as creator and executive producer; the writing team included several writers such as David N. Williams and Amy H. Jones.
Was the show ever nominated for awards?
The series earned several Emmy nominations, especially for Outstanding Writing and Acting, and received other industry honors.
What is the main premise of the show?
The premise centers on four women running a design firm in Atlanta while balancing careers, politics, and personal lives.
How did the show address women's issues?
Through humor and dialogue, the show explored workplace sexism, motherhood, and the challenges of balancing family and ambition.
Who were the main cast members and their characters?
The main cast included Delta Burke (Julia Sugarbaker), Swoosie Kurtz (Mary Jo Shively), Lynne Thigpen (Charlene Frazier‑Stillfield), and Rue McClanahan (Suzanne Sugarbaker).
Why did the show end after season 7?
The conclusion after season seven was due to declining ratings, cast departures, and the network’s desire to move its programming lineup.
Can the show be watched on streaming platforms?
The series is available on streaming services such as Hulu and on digital platforms for purchase or rental.
Are there any spin-offs or related series?
No official spin‑offs were produced; the series remains a standalone show.
What was the theme of the first episode?
The first episode introduced the firm’s staff and highlighted their differing personalities as they tackle a project in a comedic setting.
How did the show handle the character of Charlene’s farm background?
Charlene’s rural background is referenced in dialogue, emphasizing her down‑to‑earth perspective and often humorous misunderstandings.
What is the significance of the firm’s name, Sugarbaker & Associates?
“Sugarbaker & Associates” reflects Julia Sugarbaker’s ownership and the firm’s identity as a boutique design business, grounding the show in a professional setting.
