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Who's the Boss?

Who's the Boss?

19847
Komedie
Uitgebracht
20 sep 1984
Land
Verenigde Staten
Productie
ELP Communications
Een voormalige professionele honkbalspeler verhuist samen met zijn jonge tienerdochter naar het huis van Angela Bower in New York om zowel huishoudster als vaderfiguur voor haar jonge zoon te zijn. Tony's relaxte persoonlijkheid staat in contrast met Angela's type A-gedrag.

About

Quick guide

A former baseball star moves to a New York ad exec’s home to serve as housekeeper and dad, while his easy‑going style clashes with her driven personality.

The 1984 sitcom follows former Major League pitcher Tony Micelli (Tony Danza) who relocates with his pre‑teen daughter, Samantha (Alyssa Milano), to the suburban home of advertising executive Angela Bower (Judith Light). Tony becomes the live‑in housekeeper, while Angela juggles a high‑profile career and raising her son, Jonathan (Danny Pintauro). Over eight seasons the show explores their evolving friendship, workplace humor and the growing bond between the two main characters, all set against the backdrop of Connecticut life. The series was praised for its light tone and relatable family dynamics.

What to know

  • Tony was a former MLB pitcher whose career ended early.
  • Samantha is Tony’s teenage daughter who grows up on the show.
  • Angela is a single advertising executive and mother of a young son.
  • The family lives in suburban Fairfield, Connecticut.
  • Tony works as a live‑in housekeeper, acting as a father figure.
  • The show features a mix of workplace and family humor.
  • Romantic tension develops between Tony and Angela throughout.
  • Episodes were filmed with a live studio audience.

Watch if

If you enjoy lighthearted sitcoms that blend family life, workplace comedy, and a sweet romance, this show offers charming characters, witty banter and a warm, 80s vibe.

Skip if

If you prefer hard‑edge dramas or series with heavy adult content, this family‑friendly sitcom may feel too light, predictable and nostalgic for you.

family friendlylight toneromance elementsuplifting tone
Premise
A former MLB pitcher, Tony Micelli, takes a live‑in house‑keeping job for a successful ad executive after a career‑ending injury. He moves with his daughter Samantha into the Bower household, where he serves as father figure and domestic help while learning to balance family and work.
Characters
Tony Danza stars as the easy‑going, former athlete. Judith Light portrays Angela Bower, a driven advertising executive. Alyssa Milano plays Samantha, Tony’s bright teen. Danny Pintauro is Jonathan, Angela’s young son, while Katherine Helmond plays Angela’s feisty mother Mona.
Setting
Most episodes take place in suburban Fairfield, Connecticut, giving the show a relaxed, small‑town vibe. Occasional scenes in New York City add contrast and bring Tony’s Brooklyn roots into play.
Tone
The series blends warm family moments with workplace comedy. Dialogue is quick, humor light, and romance develops slowly, keeping the show approachable and uplifting for a broad audience.
Production
Produced by Embassy and Columbia, the series ran for eight seasons (196 half‑hour episodes). Filming was done with a live studio audience and a multi‑camera setup typical of 80s sitcoms.
Legacy
The show earned awards and remains popular in syndication. Its blend of domestic life and romance set a template for future family comedies.
Where to Watch
The complete series is available on streaming services such as Hulu, Tubi and Amazon Prime Video, allowing new fans to enjoy the classic 80s charm.

FAQ

20 Q&A
What is the name of Alyssa Milano's character?
Alyssa Milano plays Samantha Micelli, Tony’s teenage daughter who grows up on the show, providing comic energy and teenage drama.
Where is the show set?
The series takes place in Fairfield, Connecticut, with occasional scenes in nearby New York City to tie in Tony’s Brooklyn background.
What did Tony do for a living before he became a housekeeper?
Before becoming a housekeeper, Tony Micelli was a professional Major League Baseball pitcher whose career ended after a shoulder injury.
What is the name of Angela's son?
Angela Bower’s son is Jonathan, a young boy who shares the household and often provides comic moments.
What is the name of Angela's ex-husband?
Angela’s ex‑husband is Michael, a former business partner; his separation from Angela sets up the family dynamic.
What disaster causes Tony to tell Angela that he loves her in season two?
In a hospital episode, Tony suffers a burst appendix and, while in a vulnerable state, confesses his love for Angela, deepening their bond.
Who invites Sam to prom?
Sam receives a prom invitation from her longtime boyfriend, Jesse Nash, which sparks a small romantic storyline.
What is the name of Tony's old band?
Tony’s old band was called The Dreamtones, a group he reconnects with in later seasons to revive old connections.
Where does the family head for vacation in the season six premiere?
The family travels to Jamaica in the season six premiere, where an adventurous trip creates tension and humor.
What career did Tony decide on while in college?
While attending college, Tony chooses teaching as his new career path, ultimately becoming a science educator.
Where does Tony propose to Angela?
Tony proposes to Angela during a trip to a ski resort, hoping to solidify their relationship, though her reaction is cautious.
Who does Sam marry?
Sam eventually marries Hank, a character who transitions from medical school to becoming a puppeteer.
Where does Tony move in the series finale?
In the series finale, Tony accepts a teaching job in Iowa, prompting the family to confront their future.
True or false: Tony and Angela marry at the end of the series.
No, Tony and Angela do not marry by the end; the series concludes with their relationship unresolved, leaving room for future possibilities.
True or false: The show was originally called "You're the Boss."
True: the original working title was "You're the Boss," which was later changed to a question for dramatic effect.
True or false: Mona was originally supposed to be Angela's sister.
True: Mona was initially conceived as Angela’s sister but was later rewritten as her mother to add a comedic dynamic.
Which of Samantha's friends was played by Nicole Eggert?
Nicole Eggert portrayed Marci Ferguson, Sam’s friend, appearing in several episodes as part of the teen subplot.
Where does Tony go to speak to the Senate?
Tony speaks before a Senate committee on senior healthcare issues, reflecting his advocacy for retired athletes.
What is the name of Angela's long-term boyfriend, played by Robin Thomas?
Geoffrey Wells, played by Robin Thomas, is Angela’s steady romantic interest throughout much of the series.
What is the name of Angela's nerdy friend, played by Adam Carl?
Mason, the nerdy friend portrayed by Adam Carl, provides support and comic relief as Angela navigates her career.

Acteurs

Tony Danza
Tony Danza
Tony Micelli
Judith Light
Judith Light
Angela Bower
Alyssa Milano
Alyssa Milano
Samantha Micelli
Danny Pintauro
Danny Pintauro
Jonathan Bower
Katherine Helmond
Katherine Helmond
Mona Robinson