It's a Living

It's a Living[edit | edit source]

It's a Living is an American sitcom that aired from 1980 to 1989. The show revolves around the lives of the waitresses working at a restaurant called "Above the Top" in Los Angeles. Created by Stu Silver and directed by Jay Sandrich, the series was known for its witty humor and relatable characters.

Plot[edit | edit source]

The show follows the lives of several waitresses working at "Above the Top," a restaurant located on the top floor of a high-rise building. The main characters include Nancy Beebe, a single mother and aspiring actress; Vicki Allen, a sassy and ambitious waitress; Jan Hoffmeyer, a sweet and naive young woman; and Dot Higgins, an older and more experienced waitress.

Each episode focuses on the personal and professional challenges faced by the waitresses as they navigate their way through the ups and downs of working in the service industry. From dealing with difficult customers to pursuing their dreams outside of work, the characters find themselves in various comedic situations that highlight the realities of making a living.

Cast[edit | edit source]

The cast of It's a Living included:

Ann Jillian as Nancy Beebe
Crystal Bernard as Vicki Allen
Gail Edwards as Dot Higgins
Barrie Youngfellow as Jan Hoffmeyer
Paul Kreppel as Sonny Mann
Marian Mercer as Nancy Beebe (seasons 1-3)
Richard Stahl as Howard Miller
Louise Lasser as Maggie McBurney (seasons 4-5)

Production[edit | edit source]

It's a Living was produced by Witt/Thomas/Harris Productions and distributed by Columbia Pictures Television. The show originally aired on ABC from 1980 to 1982 before being canceled. However, due to popular demand, it was revived in syndication from 1985 to 1989.

The series was known for its strong ensemble cast and sharp writing. It tackled various social issues of the time, including gender equality and workplace dynamics. The show's success can be attributed to its relatable characters and their humorous interactions.

Reception[edit | edit source]

It's a Living received positive reviews from critics and garnered a loyal fan base during its run. The show was praised for its comedic timing, well-developed characters, and realistic portrayal of the service industry. It also tackled important social issues with sensitivity and humor.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

It's a Living remains a beloved sitcom that continues to entertain audiences through reruns and DVD releases. The show's impact on popular culture can be seen in its influence on subsequent workplace comedies. It paved the way for other shows to explore the lives of working-class individuals and the challenges they face.