What is Simon & Simon about?
Simon & Simon follows two brothers, A.J. and Rick, who run a private detective agency in San Diego. Their investigations mix crime, drama, and light humor, highlighting the brothers’ contrasting styles and close bond.
Who are the main characters?
The leads are Gerald McRaney as Rick Simon, a rugged veteran, and Jameson Parker as A.J. Simon, a polished, rule‑oriented investigator. Their mother, Cecilia, and occasional partners appear throughout the series.
Where does the show take place?
All action is set in San Diego, California, during the 1980s, with the brothers working from their office in the city and traveling around the local area.
How many seasons and episodes does it have?
Simon & Simon ran for eight seasons, totaling 156 episodes, before the final season aired in late 1988.
When did the series first air?
The series debuted on CBS on November 21, 1981, and ran until the end of 1988.
Who created the series?
Philip DeGuere conceived and created Simon & Simon, drawing inspiration from earlier detective partnerships.
Why was the show almost canceled?
Low ratings in 1982 threatened cancellation, but a move to Thursday nights and a crossover with Magnum, P.I. boosted viewership and saved the series.
Did the series ever cross over with another show?
Yes, a two‑hour episode in season two began on Magnum, P.I. and concluded on Simon & Simon, linking the two series and attracting a larger audience.
Which actors wrote or directed episodes?
Both Gerald McRaney and Tim Reid contributed scripts, and McRaney directed six episodes, bringing a personal touch to the storytelling.
Were there notable guest stars?
Guest appearances included Delta Burke as A.J.’s wife, Darleen Carr as Rick’s wife, and other actors like Jeannie Wilson and Joan McMurtrey in recurring roles.
What is the brothers' dynamic?
A.J. is meticulous, prefers rules, and values professionalism, while Rick is impulsive, relies on instincts, and enjoys a more relaxed approach—creating tension and humor.
Did the brothers have a mother on the show?
Yes, Cecilia Simon, played by Mary Carver, appears as their mother in several episodes, adding a family layer to the storyline.
What types of cases did they investigate?
They tackled a range of crimes, from theft and fraud to murder, often involving local businesses, celebrities, or underground networks, keeping each episode fresh.
How did the show balance drama and humor?
While the investigations are serious, the brothers’ banter, disagreements, and shared history provide a lighthearted counterbalance, preventing the tone from becoming too grim.
Were there any spin‑offs or reunion movies?
A 1995 reunion film, "Simon & Simon: In Trouble Again," revisited the brothers after many years, expanding on their careers and personal lives.
Is there a home media release?
Yes, the series has been released on DVD in several volumes, making the full run available for new viewers.
What is the legacy of the show?
Simon & Simon is remembered as a classic 80s detective drama that highlighted brotherly teamwork and set the stage for later procedural shows.
Are there recurring themes?
Themes include loyalty, moral ambiguity, and the tension between methodical planning and spontaneous action, reflected in both cases and character interactions.
Did the show use real locations?
While the office and certain streets were filmed on sets, many scenes were shot on location around San Diego to give authenticity to the setting.
Was the show influenced by other detective shows?
The creators cited influences like Magnum, P.I. and The Rockford Files, aiming to blend a buddy dynamic with a detective format.
How were law‑enforcement characters portrayed?
Characters such as Lt. Brown and Lt. Marsh served as allies and sometimes rivals, providing procedural legitimacy and occasional conflict.
Did the show feature a theme song?
An instrumental theme composed by Barry De Vorzon and Michael Towers opened each episode, setting a distinctive mood.
How did the show handle character development?
Character growth occurs through personal backstories, relationship dynamics, and evolving approaches to cases, keeping the brothers’ partnership fresh.
Did the show receive any awards?
While not heavily decorated, the series earned nominations for its writing and for its portrayal of complex relationships.
Is the series available on streaming platforms?
Availability varies; parts of the series have appeared on streaming services, but full seasons may be found on DVD or digital purchase.