Moonlighting (1985 TV Series)

About Moonlighting

Moonlighting is a unique blend of romance, comedy, and mystery, created by Glenn Gordon Caron. The show aired on ABC from March 3, 1985, to May 14, 1989. The series focuses on Maddie Hayes, a former model who finds herself bankrupt after her accountant absconds with all her money. The only remaining asset is the "Blue Moon Detective Agency," in which she partners with the fun-loving, carefree detective David Addison.

Making / Production

Moonlighting was produced by Jay Daniel and Glenn Gordon Caron for Picturemaker Productions in association with ABC. Known for its quick-witted dialogue, breaking the fourth wall, and stories centered on romance and comedy rather than the crime at hand – it became a standout production in its era.

Actors

• Bruce Willis - David Addison: Willis played the flippant detective David Addison with a knack for making everything lighter with comedy, despite the circumstances.
• Cybill Shepherd - Maddie Hayes: As the former model Maddie Hayes, Shepherd perfectly portrayed the character's transition from glamour to sleuthing.
• Allyce Beasley - Agnes DiPesto: Beasley played the rhyming receptionist Agnes DiPesto providing sharp contrast and comic relief.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The show was known for its frequent use of wordplay, puns, and comedic breaks of the fourth wall, a distinctive feature in 80's sitcoms.
• Bruce Willis won the role of David Addison among thousands of contenders.
• The title of the show is a play on the main characters - Maddie (Moon) and David (lighting).

Awards

Moonlighting received several awards and nominations, notably the Golden Globe Awards for Best Television Series and Best Performance by an Actress for Cybill Shepherd. Bruce Willis won Outstanding Lead Actor at the Primetime Emmy Awards.

Quotes

• "Anything worth remembering is worth the risk." - David Addison
• "I am too smart and too strong to live my life in fear." - Maddie Hayes

Music, Soundtrack

• "Moonlighting (Theme)" by Al Jarreau
• "When The Saints Go Marching In" by Louis Armstrong
• "Stormy Weather" by Cybill Shepherd