From October26, 1982 through May25,1988, NBC aired St. Elsewhere, an American medical drama television series that depicts the lives of a group of medical professionals. At an unrecognized Boston hospital that starred Ed Flanders, Norman Lloyd and William Daniels, interns had a bright future in vital medical and personal decisions. These two shows were often contrasted because of their ensemble casts and serialized plots, and both were produced by the same company that was successful with a similar NBC police drama, Hill Street Blues, at the same time. CBS/MTM Studios, which at the time of the show was known as CBS/Fox Studios, ended up being purchased by 20th Century Fox in the 1990s, and the show was filmed there. Over the course of its six-season run and 137 episodes, St. Elsewhere amassed a small but devoted fan base thanks to its blend of gritty, realistic drama and black comedy. The show also found a strong audience among Nielsen's 18-49 demo, a young demo later known for a young, affluent audience that TV advertisers are eager to reach. The sitcom has won 13 Emmy Awards for its writing, acting, and directing over its run. At #20 on TV Guide's 2002 list of "The 50 Greatest Television Series Ever Created," St. Elsewhere was also selected as the best 1980s drama series in a 1993 issue.
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