What is the premise of Early Edition?
The show centers on Gary Hobson, a former stockbroker who starts receiving the next day’s Chicago Sun‑Times in his hand every morning. He must decide whether to act on the information to change events before they occur.
Who is Gary Hobson?
Gary Hobson, played by Kyle Chandler, is a former stockbroker who becomes the reluctant bearer of a mysterious newspaper that predicts future events. He uses this knowledge to help people and avoid disasters.
How does the newspaper arrive?
Each morning at 6:30 a.m., a ginger tabby cat delivers the newspaper to Gary. The paper appears regardless of his location and always contains headlines for the following day.
What is the role of the cat?
The cat, known simply as The Cat, accompanies every delivery and acts as a silent companion. It serves as a symbolic messenger, appearing whenever the paper arrives.
Who are the main supporting characters?
Key allies include Chuck Fishman, a former coworker who initially wants to profit from the paper; Marissa Clark, a blind former receptionist offering moral guidance; and Detective Crumb, who sometimes joins the effort.
Why does Gary quit his stockbroker job?
Gary’s new responsibility forces him to devote more time to preventing events. His job no longer fits his new focus, so he steps away to prioritize his role as the paper’s bearer.
How often does the newspaper arrive?
The newspaper arrives once per day at 6:30 a.m., regardless of Gary’s location, and is always accompanied by the cat.
Is the newspaper always accurate?
The paper consistently reflects events that will happen that day, but Gary’s actions can change the outcome, thereby altering subsequent headlines.
Does Gary ever try to use the paper for money?
Early on, his former colleague Chuck attempts to profit from the paper’s predictions, but Gary ultimately uses the gift to help people rather than for financial gain.
What happens if Gary changes the headline?
When Gary prevents a headline’s event, the newspaper updates to reflect the new outcome. This demonstrates his direct influence on the future.
Who is Lucius Snow?
Lucius Snow is a character who originally received the newspaper from the cat before Gary. He is part of the backstory that explains how the responsibility is passed on.
Where is the show set?
The series is set in Chicago, Illinois, and frequently uses real city locations such as the Blackstone Hotel and McGinty's bar.
What is the significance of the Swiss Army knife?
The red Swiss Army knife is a symbolic item passed to the new bearer, representing the responsibility to use the paper for the greater good.
How many seasons and episodes are there?
Early Edition ran for four seasons with a total of 90 episodes, each 45‑48 minutes long.
When did the show first air?
The series debuted on CBS on September 28, 1996, and continued until May 27, 2000.
When was the series cancelled?
CBS cancelled Early Edition after its fourth season in May 2000, concluding the original run.
Did the show have a reunion or reboot?
In 2022, CBS ordered a pilot for a reboot, but the project was later cancelled and did not proceed to production.
Where can I watch Early Edition now?
The series is available on streaming platforms such as Paramount+ and on DVD in a complete collection. Availability may vary by region.
Is there a DVD collection available?
Yes, a 16‑disc complete collection was released in 2018, containing all 90 episodes for home viewing.
What is the tone of the show?
Early Edition blends light comedy with heartfelt drama, maintaining a gentle, family‑friendly tone throughout its run.
Does the show have any supernatural elements?
The central supernatural element is the ability to receive tomorrow’s newspaper and alter future events, guided by a mysterious cat.
Are there any recurring guest stars?
Several well‑known actors appear across the series, including Anna Chlumsky, Felicity Huffman, and Cynthia Nixon, adding depth to individual episodes.
Does the cat appear in every episode?
The cat is present in most episodes as a companion to the newspaper’s delivery, though its visibility varies depending on the storyline.
Are the episodes standalone or serialized?
Episodes are largely standalone, with each focusing on a particular headline, but character development and overarching themes weave a subtle continuity.
What is the most popular episode?
Viewers often cite episodes that balance humor with emotional stakes as fan favorites, though specific episode rankings vary among audiences.