Sesong
Episode
Spiller-server
Marcus Welby, M.D.
19697
Drama
Utgitt
23. sep. 1969
Land
USA
Marcus Welby, M.D. er et amerikansk medisinsk drama-TV-program som ble sendt på ABC fra 23. september 1969 til 29. juli 1976. Den hadde Robert Young i hovedrollen som en allmennlege med vennlig pasientbehandling og James Brolin som den yngre legen han ofte jobbet med, og ble produsert av David Victor og David J. O'Connell. Piloten, A Matter of Humanities, ble sendt som en ABC Movie of the Week 26. mars 1969.
About
Quick guide
A 1969–1976 ABC medical drama about a compassionate family doctor in Santa Monica.
Marcus Welby, M.D. follows Dr. Marcus Welby (Robert Young), a gentle family practitioner who balances medical practice with community life in Santa Monica. Joining him is the younger, spirited Dr. Steve Kiley (James Brolin). The series tackles real medical and social issues, often sparking debate over controversial topics of its time.
What to know
- Season count: 7 seasons, 169 episodes
- Pilot titled "A Matter of Humanities" aired as an ABC Movie of the Week
- Robert Young and James Brolin won Emmys for their performances
- Show explored medical topics like addiction, autism, and abortion
- Controversial episodes sparked protests and network refusals to air
- The series ran on ABC from 1969 to 1976
- It was a top-rated show during the early 1970s
- Two TV movies followed the series in the 1980s
Watch if
If you appreciate thoughtful, character-driven drama that addresses medical ethics and social change, and you enjoy a calm, community-focused tone, this series offers a historical perspective on family practice.
Skip if
If you prefer fast-paced action or high drama, or are sensitive to mature themes such as abortion and mental illness presented in a realistic manner, this show may not be for you.
mature themespsychological elementsdark tonefamily friendlysad toneslow burnpolitical themeslanguage some
Series Origins
Developed by David Victor and produced by David J. O’Connell, Marcus Welby, M.D. premiered as an ABC Movie of the Week before moving to a weekly schedule. The show quickly gained a reputation for realistic portrayals of medical practice and community life.
Main Cast
Robert Young portrayed the seasoned Dr. Marcus Welby, a kind family doctor who treated patients with empathy. James Brolin joined as the younger Dr. Steve Kiley, whose energetic approach balanced Welby’s calm demeanor. Supporting roles included nurse Consuelo Lopez and occasional guests.
Social Impact
The series tackled issues like autism, leukemia, abortion, and interracial marriage, often provoking public debate. Episodes such as “The Outrage” faced protests and broadcast refusals, highlighting the show's influence on social discourse.
Critical Reception
Marcus Welby, M.D. earned multiple Emmy nominations and a Golden Globe for Best Television Drama. Critics praised its medical authenticity and character depth, though some noted its slower pacing compared to contemporary dramas.
Legacy
After its 1976 cancellation, two TV movies continued Welby’s story. The show remains a reference point for early family medicine on television and is frequently cited in discussions of medical ethics in media.
Cultural Footprint
The series inspired future medical dramas and helped shape public perceptions of family doctors. Its emphasis on compassionate care continues to resonate with audiences and healthcare professionals alike.
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FAQ
22 Q&A
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.
