Perfect Strangers (1986)
The beloved ABC sitcom that turned an unlikely cousins' reunion into eight seasons of laughter, friendship, and the Dance of Joy.
Perfect Strangers - Series Information
- Original Title: Perfect Strangers
- First Air Year: 1986
- Last Air Year: 1993
- Created by: Dale McRaven
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Comedy
- Content Rating (US): TV-PG
- Number of Seasons: 8
- Number of Episodes: 150
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: March 25, 1986 (United States - TV-PG), March 25, 1986 (Brazil - L), March 25, 1986 (Spain - TP)
- Networks: ABC
- Production Countries: United States of America
Perfect Strangers - Plot
The chronicles of the rocky coexistence of midwestern American Larry Appleton and his distant cousin from eastern Mediterranean Europe, Balki Bartokomous.
Perfect Strangers - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and relive the magic of this classic ABC comedy:
Now we are so happy we do the Dance of Joy!
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Perfect Strangers - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Dale McRaven
Main Cast
- Bronson Pinchot
- Mark Linn-Baker
- Melanie Wilson
- Rebeca Arthur
- Sam Anderson
- Belita Moreno
- Jo Marie Payton
- Ernie Sabella
- Lise Cutter
- James Noble
Writers
- Barry O'Brien
- Mark Fink
- Scott S. Gorden
- David Ketchum
- Bob Keyes
Perfect Strangers - FAQs
Where can you stream Perfect Strangers today?
Perfect Strangers is available to watch for free with ads on Tubi TV, Pluto TV, Xumo Play, and The Roku Channel. It can also be streamed free on Plex. For ad-free viewing, episodes can be purchased on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, and Google Play Movies.
Who played Balki Bartokomous in Perfect Strangers?
Balki Bartokomous was played by Bronson Pinchot, whose energetic, scene-stealing performance became the heart of the series. His comedic chemistry with Mark Linn-Baker, who played cousin Larry Appleton, defined the show's enduring appeal throughout its eight-season run on ABC.
What is the Dance of Joy in Perfect Strangers?
The Dance of Joy is a recurring celebratory routine performed by Balki and Larry whenever something wonderful happens. Originating from Balki's fictional homeland of Mypos, the dance became one of the most iconic and beloved running gags in 1980s American sitcom history.
How many seasons and episodes does Perfect Strangers have?
Perfect Strangers ran for 8 seasons and 150 episodes on ABC, airing from March 1986 to August 1993. Seasons 5, 6, and 7 were the longest, each containing 24 episodes, while Season 8 wrapped the series with a concise final run of 6 episodes.
Did Perfect Strangers spin off any other TV shows?
Yes. Perfect Strangers directly spawned Family Matters (1989), a hugely successful ABC sitcom that followed building elevator operator Harriette Winslow — played by Jo Marie Payton — and her family. Family Matters became famous for the character Steve Urkel and ran for nine seasons.
When did Perfect Strangers first air on ABC?
Perfect Strangers premiered on ABC on March 25, 1986. Created by Dale McRaven, the series quickly found a devoted audience and became a cornerstone of ABC's popular TGIF Friday night comedy lineup during the late 1980s and early 1990s.
What is the content rating for Perfect Strangers?
Perfect Strangers carries a TV-PG content rating, making it suitable for general family audiences. The series relies on wholesome situational comedy, physical humor, and the warm friendship between its two leads, with no significant mature content throughout its run.
What shows are similar to Perfect Strangers?
Fans of Perfect Strangers often enjoy other classic buddy and fish-out-of-water comedies such as Growing Pains (1985), Keeping Up Appearances (1990), That '70s Show (1998), and What I Like About You (2002). These series share a similar warmth, ensemble chemistry, and situational humor.
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