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Major Dad 1989

★ 6.5/10 · 26 votes TV-PG ComedyFamily 4 seasons · 96 eps Ended
Where to watch: Tubi TV
Quick answer

What is Major Dad?

Major Dad is an American sitcom that originally aired on CBS from 1989 to 1993. The series was created by Richard C.

Type
TV series
Year
1989
Status
Ended
Episodes
96
Runtime
30 minutes
First aired
Sep 17, 1989
Last aired
Apr 16, 1993
Original language
EN
Origin
US
Networks
CBS
Genres
Comedy, Family
Updated
Availability by region

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Overview

Major Dad is an American sitcom that originally aired on CBS from 1989 to 1993. The series was created by Richard C. Okie and John G. Stephens and was developed for television by Earl Pomerantz. The program stars Gerald McRaney in the title role as Major John D. MacGillis alongside Shanna Reed, who portrays his wife, Polly. The ensemble cast featured in the production includes Beverly Archer, Matt Mulhern, Jon Cypher, Marisa Ryan, Nicole Dubuc, and Chelsea Hertford. As a television sitcom, the show focuses on the life of the central character, Major John D. MacGillis, and his family dynamics. The series maintained its presence on the CBS network throughout its four-year run. By documenting the interactions between the Major and his household, the program explored themes common to the sitcom genre during the late 1980s and early 1990s. The show remains a notable entry in the television career of Gerald McRaney, who led the cast throughout the entire duration of the series.

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Should you watch it?

“A Marine officer balances military life with family antics in a light‑hearted sitcom.”

Reasons to watch
  • Humorous look at military family life
  • Strong lead performance by Gerald McRaney
  • Blend of comedy and family themes
Keep in mind
  • Period sitcom style may feel dated
  • Limited to its 1989‑1993 run

Watch it if you enjoy light family comedy with a military backdrop.

The show is TV‑PG, offering gentle humor suitable for most viewers, including families.

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Cast

Episode guide

Season 1 · 26 episodes
Season 2 · 24 episodes
Season 3 · 24 episodes
Season 4 · 22 episodes

Frequently asked questions

Who created Major Dad?

It was created by Richard C. Okie and John G. Stephens.

Who developed the series?

Earl Pomerantz developed the sitcom.

Who are the lead actors?

Gerald McRaney stars as Major John D. MacGillis and Shanna Reed plays his wife Polly.

When did the series originally air?

It originally ran from 1989 to 1993 on CBS.

What is the show's content rating?

The series is rated TV‑PG and is classified as comedy and family.