It's a Living

American television sitcom

It's a Living is an American television sitcom that aired on ABC from 1980 to 1982, and in first-run syndication from 1985 to 1989. The series was created by Stu Silver, Dick Clair, and Jenna McMahon. The show is set in a posh restaurant located atop a Los Angeles skyscraper, focusing on the lives of the waitresses working there.

Premise

The series revolves around the personal and professional lives of a group of waitresses working at "Above the Top," a chic restaurant situated on the top floor of a high-rise building in Los Angeles. The show explores the interactions between the waitresses, the kitchen staff, and the restaurant's customers, blending humor with occasional dramatic elements.

Characters

Main Characters

• Nancy Beebe (played by Marian Mercer) - The restaurant's manager, Nancy is a no-nonsense woman who runs a tight ship but cares deeply for her staff.
• Sonny Mann (played by Paul Kreppel) - The restaurant's piano player, Sonny is a charming and flirtatious character who often provides comic relief.
• Dot Higgins (played by Gail Edwards) - An aspiring actress, Dot is one of the waitresses who dreams of making it big in Hollywood.
• Jan Hoffmeyer Gray (played by Barrie Youngfellow) - A level-headed waitress who often acts as the voice of reason among her colleagues.
• Cassie Cranston (played by Ann Jillian) - Known for her sharp wit and glamorous appearance, Cassie is another waitress with aspirations beyond the restaurant.

It's a Living title screen

Recurring Characters

• Howard Miller (played by Richard Stahl) - The head chef, Howard is known for his culinary skills and his gruff demeanor.
• Lois Adams (played by Susan Sullivan) - A waitress who appeared in the first season, Lois is a single mother trying to balance work and family life.

Production

The series was produced by Witt/Thomas/Harris Productions in association with Columbia Pictures Television. The show initially struggled with ratings during its network run on ABC, leading to its cancellation after two seasons. However, it found new life in first-run syndication, where it gained a loyal audience and continued for four additional seasons.

Cast of It's a Living

Syndication Success

After its initial cancellation, "It's a Living" was revived in 1985 for first-run syndication. The show underwent some cast changes and adjustments in its format, which helped it to resonate with a broader audience. The syndication run allowed the series to explore more diverse storylines and character development.

Legacy

"It's a Living" is remembered for its unique setting and its portrayal of working women in the 1980s. The series is often noted for its strong female ensemble cast and its blend of comedy and drama. It remains a notable example of a television show that found success beyond its original network airing.

Paul Kreppel and Gail Edwards at the Hollywood Show

Related pages

• List of American television sitcoms
• 1980s American television series
• Television syndication