Bill Daily Movies
From the late '60s through the mid-'70s, first on I Dream of Jeannie and later on The Bob Newhart Show, Bill Daily was one of the most visible comic acting talents in television, despite the fact that he'd always intended on a career in music. Born in Des Moines, IA, in 1928, he was raised by his mother with help from several aunts and uncles after the death of his father and he gravitated toward music as a teenager. Following a stint in the army in the late '40s, Daily became a professional musician, playing upright bass with different groups in the Midwest, and he eventually added little bits of stand-up comedy to his repertory in the course of performing. He hooked up with an NBC station in Chicago, first working behind the camera as a writer and musician and then doing comedy on the air. Eventually, he became a regular guest as a comedian on The Mike Douglas Show, which originated from Chicago. From there, he was discovered by Steve Allen who brought him onto his show as a comedian and sidekick. Daily subsequently credited his musical side with providing him with the sense of timing to become a successful comedian. During the early and mid-'60s, Daily moved into acting roles on programs like Bewitched -- on which he debuted in a straight dramatic role, in a Christmas episode in which he was highly effective -- and was given a small role in the pilot of I Dream of Jeannie. That part, of Major Roger Healy, turned into the co-starring role after the program's first season. Following five successful seasons on that program, he moved to The Bob Newhart Show as Howard Borden, providing comedic support similar to the part he'd played on I Dream Of Jeannie, as Newhart's befuddled, constantly jet-lagged next door neighbor. Daily has only ever appeared in two feature films, both of them comedies -- the made-for-television In Name Only in 1969, as a carefree bachelor (clearly modeled after one aspect of his character on I Dream of Jeannie) and in Disney's release of The Barefoot Executive in 1971. Since the first Bob Newhart series left the air, his television appearances have been infrequent and always in supporting, guest starring roles, although he did appear on Nick-at-Nite helping to promote The Bob Newhart Show when it aired on the channel. He has since reportedly become a theatrical actor and director in the Albuquerque, NM, area. ~ Bruce Eder, All Movie Guide- 1974
Attempting to practice what he preaches to his therapy group, Bob goes on an "honesty" kick. His efforts to tell all the truth all the time has a decidedly negative effect on the guests at the Hartleys' dinner party. Lawrence Pressman and Rose Gregorio make guest appearances as Ed and Janet Hoffman. Written by John Rappaport, "Brutally Yours, Bob Hartley" made its first network appearance on November 2, 1974. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, (more)
- 1974
Howard is worried that his son, Howie, will not accept Ellen as his new mother. In his usual bumbling fashion, Howard does a "Vertigo," attempting to mold Ellen into a perfect parent. Despite Howard's concerted efforts, Howie seems to take an automatic dislike to Ellen. Bob, as usual, is stuck in the middle of the fray. Future Three's Company star John Ritter appears as Dave. Written by Charlotte Brown, "Sorry, Wrong Mother" initially aired on October 12, 1974. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, (more)
- 1974
Bob and Emily have decided upon a trial separation, but not for the usual reason. Working on her Master's degree, Emily takes up residence in school, while Bob stays home relishing a bit of much needed peace and quiet. Despite the couple's protestations, however, the Hartleys' friends are convinced that the marriage is on the rocks. Occasional series writer Carl Gottlieb appears as Kuberski, while Richard Stahl is cast as the bellboy, and Katherine Ish plays Mrs. Helnsohn. Scripted by Tom Patchett and Jay Tarses from a story by Bob Garland, "The Separation Story" originally aired on October 5, 1974. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, (more)
- 1974
Filmed as the second episode of The Bob Newhart Show's third season, "Big Brother Is Watching" was telecast as the season opener on September 14, 1974. Bob has done his best to resign himself to the romance between his sister, Ellen, and his next-door neighbor, Howard Borden. But even Bob's calm, equitable demeanor is shattered when Ellen decides to move in with Howard sans benefit of clergy. "Big Brother Is Watching" was written by Charlotte Brown. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, (more)
- 1974
Emily finds herself wrestling with a crisis of conscience. Her boss, school principal Brimskill (Milton Selzer), wants to skip a student two grades. Feeling that the student isn't quite ready for such a move, Emily digs in her heels and refuses to obey orders -- while Bob has a devil of a time keeping neutral. Future Hill Street Blues regular Michael Conrad makes another appearance as Bob's UFO-obsessed patient, Mr. Trevesco. Written by Arnie Kogen and Ray Jessel, "A Matter of Principal" originally aired on March 2, 1974, as the final episode of The Bob Newhart Show's second season. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, (more)
- 1974
Jerry tries to create a co-op with all the other doctors in the professional building. Under Jerry's master plan, the various medicos will treat each other for free. When the scheme inevitably explodes in Jerry's face, Bob finds himself saddled with an all-doctor therapy group -- for free, of course. Octogenerian actress Merie Earle makes one of her frequent appearances as Bob's doddering patient, Mrs. Loomis. Written by Coleman Mitchell and Geoffrey Neigher, "The Great Timpau Medical Arts Co-op Experiment" first aired on September 28, 1974. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, (more)
- 1974
Filmed as the opening episode of The Bob Newhart Show's third season, "The Battle of the Groups" ended up as the season's second installment, on September 21, 1974. Stuck with two contentious therapy groups, Bob does not relish the notion of taking both groups to a mountain retreat for a marathon therapy session. He should have exercised his better judgment: The weekend turns out to be a cacophonous symphony of complaints, bruised feelings, and teeth-gritting "conversations" between Bob and Emily. Among the supporting players is future Hill Street Blues star Dan Travanty as Mr. Gianelli. "The Battle of the Groups" was written by Tom Patchett and Jay Tarses. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, (more)
- 1974
It's the Christmas season again, and Carol is depressed over the prospect of spending the holidays with her overbearing parents in Iowa. As a result, Carol ends up celebrating Christmas Eve in the home of Bob and Emily Hartley. Some celebration -- it's more like an emergency therapy session when Carol launches on an uncontrollable crying jag sparked by unpleasant family memories. Featured in the cast is Bob Newhart's real-life father-in-law, character actor Bill Quinn, as the mailman. First telecast December 21, 1974, "Home Is Where the Hurt Is" was written by Tom Patchett and Jay Tarses. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, (more)
- 1974
Bob and his colleagues gear up for their annual doctor's tennis tournament. Naturally, Emily assumes that she will be teamed with Bob. What she hadn't counted on was Bob's overriding desire to win -- a desire that, so far as he is concerned, may be unfulfilled with Emily around. Others in the cast are Paula Shaw as Tammy Ziegler and Howard Platt as Dr. Newman. Written by Jerry Mayer, "Serve for Daylight" originally aired on December 14, 1974. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, (more)
- 1974
Bob's best friend, Jerry, is in love again. This time the light of his life is free-spirited Courtney Simpson (Gail Strickland). Completely under Courtney's spell, Jerry has decided to kick over the traces by giving up his practice and moving to Tahiti with the girl of his dreams. Will Bob interfere this time, or will Jerry wise up on his own? Written by Erik Tarloff, "Jerry Robinson Crusoe" made its first network appearance on December 7, 1974. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, (more)
- 1974
Bob's first mistake is to allow his all-female consciousness-raising group to hold a session in his apartment. His second mistake is to let Emily sit in during the discussion. His third mistake is not to duck when his patients, enraged at Emily's "unliberated" marriage, kick Bob out of his own group. Featured in the cast as Rhoda Gemignani as Joan Rossi, Ann Weldon as Adele Sinclair, Inge-Maria as Ingrid, and Joan Tompkins as Mrs. Cowens. First shown on November 30, 1974, "We Love You...Good-Bye" was written by Charlotte Brown. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, (more)
- 1974
Shirley O'Hara makes a return appearance as vague-minded receptionist Debbie. Hired by Jerry as a temp while Carol is on vacation, Debbie drives everyone to distraction with her incessant ineptitude. Bob would like to say something about the problem, but Debbie is just so darned nice. Also in the cast are Maxine Stuart as Mrs. Chaney and Paula Victor as Stella. Written by Tom Patchett and Jay Tarses, "Dr. Ryan's Express" first aired on October 26, 1974. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, (more)
- 1974
Carol's new fiancé, Don Felzer (Richard Schaal), is, for want of a better word, weird. Not only is he an unpublished poet (and not without reason), and without a job, but he also has bad feet. But while love is blind, Carol's friends and associates are not, and all of them hope that she'll come to her senses before it's too late. Written by Jerry Mayer, "Life Is a Hamburger" was originally broadcast on November 16, 1974 -- hanging on by its fingernails opposite the first network airing of The Godfather. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, (more)
- 1974
Bob and Emily's parents converge at a Thanksgiving dinner at the Hartley apartment. Though Emily is certain that the oldsters will get along, Bob does not share her confidence. True to Bob's predictions, a war of words breaks out between Bob's intractable mother (Martha Scott) and Emily's bullheaded father (John Randolph). Ann Rutherford and Barnard Hughes are cast respectively as Emily's mom and Bob's dad. Its title based on a celebrated PBS miniseries of the period, "An American Family" was written by Charlotte Brown, and first aired on November 23, 1974. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, (more)
- 1974
In addition to his usual duties, Bob takes on a job as staff psychiatrist for a major Chicago insurance company. Bolstered by a huge salary and better working conditions, Bob performs his job well -- all too well, in fact. John Anderson guest-stars as Colton, with Edward Winter as Wes Greenfield, Jerry Fogel as Paul Hollander, and Mary Robin Redd as Susan Wick. Originally telecast on October 19, 1974, "The Gray Flannel Shrink" was written by Jerry Mayer. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, (more)
- 1974
Bob's ego is given quite a boost when he is invited to write a chapter for a fellow psychologist's book. But his euphoria is short-lived; as published, the article has been heavily edited and rewritten. As a result, Bob is reluctant to attend a long-anticipated psychologist's convention in Hawaii, terrified that his colleagues will be able to "read" his state of mind on the spot. Future Laverne and Shirley co-star David L. Lander is seen as Milt; other cast members included Delores Sutton as Madeline Kalisher, Jerome Cuardino as Dr. Kalisher, and Bobby Ramsen as Dr. Rimmer. Written by Coleman Mitchell and Geoffrey Neigher, "Ship of Shrinks" originally aired on November 9, 1974. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, (more)
- 1973
When Howard's 22-year-old sister, Debbie (Heather Menzies), pays a visit, he panics, not wishing to reveal his swinging-bachelor lifestyle to his kid sister. Even worse, Debbie begins dating Jerry, bringing out the puritan in Howard's nature. As usual, Bob is caught in the middle of all this domestic intrigue. Also appearing is Mel Stewart as Dabney. Written by actor Frank Buxton, "Not With My Sister You Don't" originally aired on February 3, 1973. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, (more)
- 1973
Emmaline Henry guest stars as Mrs. Walker, Bob's newest patient. When Mrs. Walker convinces herself that she's in love with Bob, he tries to take it in stride, writing off her ardor as a professional hazard. But when he returns home, Bob discovers that his wife, Emily, is not inclined to be quite so understanding of Mrs. Walker's unwarranted attentions. First aired on January 27, 1973, "The Two Loves of Dr. Hartley" was written by Bill Idelson. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, (more)
- 1973
Bob has reached "the big four-oh," and Emily has bought him an expensive gold watch as a birthday present. Impishly, Bob intends to show off the watch at the surprise party he's not supposed to know about. But when he finds out how much the watch really cost, his insecurities kick in and he refuses to show up at the festivities. The guest cast includes Joan Tompkins as Aunt May, Mimi Torchin as Wendy Rivers, and Michael Lerner as Carolla. Written by Bill Idelson, "The Man With the Golden Wrist" first aired on January 20, 1973. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, (more)
- 1973
On the occasion of her 29th birthday, Carol quits her job, feeling unfulfilled as a woman. Before long, Carol has joined Bob's group-therapy session, with results better seen than described. Though essentially a showcase for series regular Marcia Wallace, this episode benefits from the comic knowhow of supporting players Jill Jaress, Don Barrow, and Jack Bender. First telecast January 13, 1973, "The Crash of 29 Years Old" was written by Charlotte Brown. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, (more)
- 1973
Emily wants Bob to accompany her on a two-month European cruise. Bob is reticent, fearing that his practice and his patients will suffer during his absence. The crisis is resolved with a stateroom scene that would have done the Marx Brothers proud. Longtime Tonight Show head writer Pat McCormick appears in a cameo role. Written by Austin and Irma Kalish, "Bum Voyage" originally aired on March 3, 1973. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, (more)
- 1973
Bob becomes a celebrity of sorts when his therapy snaps the Chicago Cubs' star pitcher out of a slump. Bob soon learns the drawbacks of fame when another Cubs player, a second-string catcher named Moose Washburn (Vern Rowe), comes to him for advice. It turns out that Moose's problems go far beyond the boundaries of Wrigley Field. Written by Bill Idelson, "You Can't Win 'Em All!" made its first network appearance on February 24, 1973. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- 1973
Emily accepts a full-time job with the Board of Education. Not keen on the idea in the first place, Bob becomes even more disapproving when he is left at the mercy of temporary maids and is forced to cook his own dinners. But how can he tell Emily to quit her job when she clearly finds her new responsibilities so fulfilling? Edward Winter guest stars as Professor Trainer. Written by Martin Cohan, "Emily, I'm Home...Emily?" was first telecast on February 17, 1973. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, (more)
- 1973
Tired of being cooped up in her lavish but confining Chicago apartment, Emily begins to consider buying a house. At first, Bob is resistant to the notion of moving, but he is reluctantly won over by Emily's high-octane enthusiasm. Sure enough, the Hartleys discover that being suburban homeowners is not all it is cracked up to be. Frequent Bob Newhart Show scripters Dick Clair and Jenna McMahon make guest appearances as Roy West and Shirley Wolfson, respectively. Written by David Davis and Lorenzo Music, "A Home Is Not Necessarily a House" first aired on February 10, 1973. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, (more)
- 1973
Both Bob and Emily are primed to take a much-needed vacation in Mexico. Alas, just before leaving town, Bob is given a friendly slap on the back by his musclebound patient, Mr.Trevesco (Michael Conrad), and as a result his back is completely thrown out. More bad news awaits Bob at home, where Emily is in bed with a bad case of the flu -- and depressed about her dashed vacation plans. Written by Susan Silver, "Backlash" was first telecast on September 29, 1973. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, (more)
