Soap (1977)
The groundbreaking ABC comedy that turned soap opera conventions upside down, skewering scandal and sentimentality with equal, gleeful abandon.
Soap - Series Information
- Original Title: Soap
- First Air Year: 1977
- Last Air Year: 1981
- Created by: Susan Harris
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Comedy, Soap, Drama
- Content Rating (US): TV-PG
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode: 45 minutes
- Number of Seasons: 4
- Number of Episodes: 85
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: September 13, 1977 (United States - TV-PG), September 13, 1977 (Canada - PG), September 13, 1977 (Germany - 12), September 13, 1977 (France - 12), September 13, 1977 (Australia - PG), September 13, 1977 (Spain - 13)
- Networks: ABC
- Alternative Titles: Die Ausgeflippten (DE)
- Production Companies: Witt/Thomas/Harris Productions
- Production Countries: United States of America
Soap - Plot
The antics of a wealthy family, the Tates, and a working-class family, the Campbells, in the fictional town of Dunn's River, Connecticut.
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Soap - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Susan Harris
Main Cast
- Katherine Helmond
- Cathryn Damon
- Richard Mulligan
- Robert Mandan
- Billy Crystal
- Ted Wass
- Rod Roddy
- Diana Canova
- Jennifer Salt
- Jimmy Baio
Writers
- Susan Harris
- Dick Clair
- Danny Jacobson
- Tony Lang
Executive Producers
- Tony Thomas
- Paul Junger Witt
Soap - FAQs
What is Soap about?
Soap is a satirical comedy that parodies daytime soap operas by following two interconnected families — the wealthy Tates and the working-class Campbells — in the fictional Connecticut town of Dunn's River. The show tackles adultery, identity, and family dysfunction with sharp, irreverent humor.
Who are the main actors in Soap?
The principal cast includes Katherine Helmond as Jessica Tate, Cathryn Damon as Mary Campbell, Richard Mulligan as Burt Campbell, Robert Mandan as Chester Tate, Billy Crystal as Jodie Dallas, Ted Wass as Danny Dallas, Diana Canova as Corinne Tate, Jennifer Salt as Eunice Tate, and Jimmy Baio as Billy Tate.
Was Soap controversial when it first aired?
Yes. Before its 1977 premiere, Soap generated significant controversy due to its frank treatment of topics including homosexuality, adultery, and religious satire. Advocacy groups and affiliates threatened boycotts, and some ABC stations declined to air it. Despite the uproar, the show became a ratings success and a cultural landmark.
Why was Soap cancelled after four seasons?
ABC cancelled Soap in 1981 after four seasons, reportedly due to declining ratings and ongoing advertiser pressure stemming from the show's controversial content. The cancellation was abrupt, leaving several storylines unresolved — a frustration that fans and cast members have noted over the decades.
When did Soap first air?
Soap premiered on September 13, 1977, on ABC in the United States. The show ran for four seasons and 85 episodes, concluding in 1981. It aired on the same date in Canada, Germany, France, Australia, and Spain, reflecting its broad international distribution from the outset.
Where can I watch Soap online?
Soap is currently available to stream on The Roku Channel and Tubi TV, both with ads, in the United States. You can compare all available viewing options for your region on JustWatch to find the most convenient platform for watching the series.
Is Soap worth watching today?
Absolutely. Soap remains a sharp, ahead-of-its-time comedy that tackled taboo subjects with wit and warmth. Critics and audiences alike regard it as a pioneering work in American television satire. Its ensemble performances — particularly Katherine Helmond and Billy Crystal — hold up remarkably well decades after the original broadcast.
Who created Soap and what is its content rating?
Soap was created by writer Susan Harris, who also served as a key writer throughout the series. The show carries a TV-PG content rating in the United States, though it was considered highly provocative for its era due to its satirical treatment of adult themes including infidelity, sexuality, and religion.
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