Breaking Point (1963 TV series)

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Paul Richards Breaking Point 1963

Breaking Point is an American medical drama series that aired on ABC from September 16, 1963, to April 27, 1964. The series was a spin-off from another medical drama, Ben Casey, and shared the same emphasis on the psychological aspects of medicine. It was created by Meta Rosenberg.

Premise

Breaking Point focused on the field of psychiatry, exploring the stories and struggles of patients and the dedicated professionals trying to help them. Set in a fictional hospital, the series delved into the complexities of mental health and the challenges faced by both the patients and their doctors. Each episode presented a new case, highlighting various psychological conditions and the impact they have on individuals and their families.

Cast and Characters

• Paul Richards as Dr. McKinley Thompson
• Eduard Franz as Dr. Edward Raymer
• The series also featured a wide range of guest stars who appeared in individual episodes, portraying patients or other characters central to the weekly storylines.

Production

The show was produced by Screen Gems, and its approach to storytelling was considered innovative for its time, focusing on the psychological rather than just the medical. Breaking Point was among the first television series to address mental health issues with depth and sensitivity, attempting to reduce the stigma around psychiatric disorders.

Reception

Despite its critical acclaim, particularly for its writing and performances, Breaking Point struggled to find a large audience. The series competed in a tough time slot and was ultimately cancelled after one season, comprising 30 episodes. However, it has since been recognized for its pioneering approach to the subject matter of mental health and its influence on later medical dramas.

Legacy

Breaking Point is remembered for its groundbreaking portrayal of mental health issues on television. It paved the way for future series to explore complex psychological themes with greater nuance and empathy. The show's focus on the human stories behind psychiatric conditions contributed to a broader conversation about mental health and helped to challenge prevailing stereotypes and misconceptions.

See Also

• Ben Casey
• List of medical drama television series