What’s the perfect reward for loyal viewers of a beloved TV show? How about a finale that not only obliterates the preceding 136 episodes, but puts in jeopardy more than 400 other series, including “I Love Lucy” and “Cheers?” In 1988, NBC did just that when it aired the final episode of "St. Elsewhere," a medical drama whose legacy is best described as “what the hell did they just do?”

Rob gives Ray a lesson in the history of the best and worst television series finales; Bobbi Wygant’s interview techniques; the far-reaching impacts of crossover episodes; and how the Mother of Dragons has nothing on Tommy Westphall. 

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TEAM:

Ray Hebel

Robert W Schneider

Mark Schroeder

Billy Recce

Daniel Schwartzberg

Gabe Crawford

Natalie DeSavia

AUDIO/VISUAL LINKS

Full St. Elsewhere Finale 

Newhart Finale 

St. Elsewhere S1E04 

Cheers Crossover 

Bobbi Wygant Interview 

St. Elsewhere Theme 

St. Elsewhere Finale Promo 

St. Elsewhere Commercial 

ARTICLES

Entertainment Weekly: About That Snowglobe

Looper: The Ending of St. Elsewhere Explained

Vulture: The St. Elsewhere Finale at 30

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