What is ALF about?
ALF follows Gordon "ALF" Shumway, an alien from the destroyed planet Melmac, who crash‑lands in the garage of the Tanner family and becomes part of their household. He brings his humor, love of beer, and cat‑eating plans into suburban life, creating comedic chaos.
Who are the main characters?
The core cast includes Willie Tanner, a social worker, his wife Kate, and their children Lynn and Brian. The alien ALF becomes the family's quirky houseguest. Supporting roles feature the Ochmoneks, a nosy neighbor couple.
How many seasons and episodes were produced?
ALF ran for four seasons, producing 97 episodes. In syndication, the episodes are split to total 100, including three hour‑long specials that are divided into two parts.
Who performed and voiced ALF?
Paul Fusco performed the puppet and supplied the voice. He operated ALF from below a pit in the set, coordinating with assistants who handled the puppet’s hands and facial features.
When did the show originally air?
The series premiered on NBC on September 22, 1986, and aired its final episode on March 24, 1990. It was later rebroadcast on various networks and streaming platforms.
Why was ALF cancelled?
NBC canceled the show after a four‑season run, citing limited story possibilities and cast fatigue. Production challenges and a decline in ratings also contributed to the decision.
Did the series end on a cliffhanger?
Yes, the last episode left ALF in a cliffhanger involving a military takeover. The unresolved plot was later wrapped up in the 1996 TV movie Project: ALF.
What is Project: ALF?
Project: ALF is a 1996 television film that serves as a continuation and conclusion to the series. It follows ALF after his capture by the U.S. military, resolving the cliffhanger left by the final episode.
Are the episodes available on DVD?
All four seasons have been released on DVD in the U.S. and Canada, including restored versions with full audio and video quality. Special editions include commentary tracks and bonus features.
Where can I stream ALF legally?
The complete series streams on Peacock. Episodes are also available on free streaming services such as Tubi and Freevee, depending on region.
Was there a reboot of ALF?
A CGI reboot was announced in 2018 but was canceled in 2019 before production began. No new series has been produced since.
What is ALF’s real name?
ALF stands for Alien Life Form, but his real name is Gordon Shumway, as revealed throughout the series.
From which planet does ALF come?
ALF is from Melmac, a small planet that was destroyed by nuclear war, leaving him as one of the few survivors.
How old is ALF?
ALF is over 200 years old, with his age cited as 227 in some episodes and 285 in others, reflecting his long lifespan on Melmac.
How was the ALF puppet built?
The puppet was a hand‑operated creature with a hidden pit for control. Multiple puppeteers handled the head, arms, and ears, while a radio‑controlled system managed facial expressions.
Did ALF have a talk show?
Yes, in 2004 a brief talk‑show format called ALF’s Hit Talk Show aired on TV Land for seven episodes, with ALF hosting in a Johnny Carson‑style format.
Where did the puppet design come from?
Paul Fusco designed ALF after experimenting with puppet concepts, drawing inspiration from the Muppets while creating a distinct, fuzzy alien appearance.
Was the show ever controversial?
Controversy arose over ALF’s beer drinking and cat‑eating jokes, which prompted NBC to reduce or remove such content in later episodes.
What was the family dynamic like?
Willie and Kate often try to keep the household in order, while their children Lynn and Brian become ALF’s allies. The family’s tolerance grows over time despite frequent chaos.
Is there merchandise available?
During the 1980s, ALF merchandise—including plush toys, backpacks, and apparel—generated over $250 million in sales. Limited collector items remain available on auction sites.
How was ALF received by audiences?
The show reached the top 10 in Nielsen ratings during its second season, earned a People’s Choice Award in 1987, and attracted a dedicated fan base that persists through fan sites and conventions.
What tone does the show have?
ALF maintains a light, family‑friendly tone with witty, dialogue‑heavy humor. It blends sitcom tropes with science‑fiction satire.
Are there spin‑offs?
Yes, spin‑offs include the animated series ALF: The Animated Series, the live‑action spin‑off ALF Tales, and a 1996 TV movie, Project: ALF, which continues the storyline.
Has ALF appeared in other media?
Besides TV, ALF has featured in animated shows, video games, and cameo appearances on talk shows and sitcoms such as The Simpsons.
How do I watch the full series legally?
Purchase or rent the complete series on DVD, or stream through Peacock, Tubi, or Freevee where the show is available in full. Official releases avoid piracy and offer complete episodes.