McMillan & Wife: An In-Depth Look at the Iconic Police Procedural Series
“McMillan & Wife,” a beloved police procedural television series, captivated audiences with its blend of mystery, humor, and charm. Airing on NBC from September 17, 1971, to April 24, 1977, this series became a staple of the NBC Mystery Movie rotation, alongside other hits like Columbo and McCloud. Created by Leonard Stern, who is also known for creating Get Smart and inventing Mad Libs, “McMillan & Wife” featured a dynamic cast and engaging storylines that made it a standout in the television landscape of the 1970s.
The show follows San Francisco Police Commissioner Stuart McMillan, played by the charismatic Rock Hudson, and his wife Sally, portrayed by Susan Saint James. Together, they navigate a world of high society events and criminal intrigue, with a mix of detective work and comedic elements that define the series. This article delves into the show’s inception, its popularity, cast changes, and lasting impact, providing a comprehensive overview of its legacy.
McMillan & Wife Wiki & Bio
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Rock Hudson |
| Nickname | None widely known |
| Gender | Male |
| Birthday | November 17, 1925 |
| Age | Died October 2, 1985 (Age 59) |
| Birthplace | Winnetka, Illinois, USA |
| Current Residence | Deceased |
| Zodiac Sign | Scorpio |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Education | Salesian High School; attended University of Arizona (studied business) |
| Profession | Actor |
| Father | Roy Harold Scherer Sr. |
| Mother | Katherine (née Ainsworth) |
| Siblings | 1 (older brother, Robert Scherer) |
| Marital Status | Married (deceased) |
| Spouse | Phyllis Gates (m. 1955–1981) |
| Children | 1 adopted daughter (Lisa Hudson) |
| Height | 6 ft 4 in (193 cm) |
| Weight | Approx. 220 lbs (100 kg) |
| Body Measurements | Chest: 44 in (112 cm); Waist: 34 in (86 cm); Biceps: 16 in (41 cm) |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Net Worth | Estimated $10 million (at time of death) |
| Source of Income | Acting, endorsements |
| Social Media | Deceased; no active accounts |
Who is McMillan & Wife?
“McMillan & Wife” revolves around Stuart “Mac” McMillan, a former criminal defense attorney turned San Francisco Police Commissioner, and his wife Sally. The series blends police procedural drama with personal and social elements, as the McMillans often find themselves entangled in both glamorous parties and serious crimes. The series showcases the McMillans’ involvement in solving various cases, from robberies to murders, while navigating their personal lives and social responsibilities.
Rock Hudson’s portrayal of Stuart McMillan brought a blend of authority and charisma to the role, while Susan Saint James provided a mix of elegance and wit as Sally McMillan. Their on-screen chemistry, along with the show’s compelling plots and clever dialogue, made “McMillan & Wife” a memorable part of the NBC Mystery Movie lineup.
Early Life
Rock Hudson, born Roy Harold Scherer Jr., was an iconic figure in Hollywood, known for his roles in both drama and comedy. Before becoming Stuart McMillan, Hudson had a successful career in film, starring in numerous popular movies. Susan Saint James, on the other hand, gained recognition for her roles in television and film, bringing a fresh and engaging presence to the role of Sally McMillan. Their combined star power contributed significantly to the show’s success.
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Education
Both Rock Hudson and Susan Saint James had extensive careers in the entertainment industry before “McMillan & Wife.” Hudson’s acting career began in the 1950s, and he quickly became a leading man in Hollywood. Saint James had already made a name for herself on television with shows like McMillan & Wife and others. Their experience and talent were instrumental in bringing depth and appeal to their characters, contributing to the series’ acclaim.
Popularity
“McMillan & Wife” was an immediate hit, thanks to its engaging storytelling and strong performances by its cast. The show became a popular part of the NBC Mystery Movie rotation, alongside other classic series like Columbo and McCloud. Its blend of mystery, comedy, and high-society drama captured the audience’s imagination and secured its place as a beloved television series.
Initial Success
The series enjoyed critical acclaim and a loyal viewership during its original run. “McMillan & Wife” was praised for its clever plots and the chemistry between Rock Hudson and Susan Saint James. The show’s unique blend of procedural drama and comedic elements made it a standout in the NBC Mystery Movie lineup. Its initial success paved the way for a dedicated fan base and ongoing popularity.
Syndication and Reruns
After its network run, “McMillan & Wife” continued to entertain audiences through syndication and reruns. The series was featured regularly as part of The CBS Late Movie and later found a place in local and cable television syndication in the United States. Its enduring appeal led to its inclusion in various television programming blocks, including those on MeTV and Cozi TV.
Cast and Series Name Change
The series underwent significant changes during its run, particularly in its final season. For its sixth season, the show was rebranded as McMillan, with major changes to the cast and storyline. Susan Saint James left the series, and her character, Sally McMillan, was written out of the show. The character of Stuart McMillan became a widower, and the series adjusted its focus accordingly.
Changes in Cast
The departure of key cast members, including Susan Saint James and Nancy Walker, marked a significant shift in the series. Susan Saint James’ exit led to her character being killed off in a plane crash, while Nancy Walker’s character Mildred was written out of the show. These changes were part of a broader retooling of the series, which also included adjustments to the remaining cast.
Series Retooling
In its final season, “McMillan & Wife” underwent retooling to adjust to changes in the cast and audience expectations. The shift in focus to Stuart McMillan’s life as a widower and the introduction of new characters marked a departure from the show’s original format. Despite these changes, the series continued to deliver engaging storylines and maintained its popularity through its final episodes.
Film Career
Rock Hudson’s film career was distinguished by a wide range of roles in both dramatic and comedic films. Before and during “McMillan & Wife,” Hudson was a well-known Hollywood leading man, contributing significantly to his television success. Susan Saint James also had a notable film career, which complemented her work on television.
Television Career
“McMillan & Wife” was a significant part of Rock Hudson and Susan Saint James’s television careers. Hudson’s role as Stuart McMillan showcased his ability to blend drama and comedy, while Saint James brought her talent and charm to the role of Sally McMillan. Their performances in the series added to their already impressive television credentials.
Cast
The cast of “McMillan & Wife” played a crucial role in the show’s success. Rock Hudson and Susan Saint James led the ensemble with their compelling performances. John Schuck, as Sgt. Charles Enright, and Nancy Walker, as Mildred, provided essential comic relief and support. The series also featured notable guest stars, including Sheree North, John Astin, and Martin E. Brooks.
Main Cast Members
- Rock Hudson as Stuart McMillan: The San Francisco Police Commissioner who navigates both crime-solving and high-society life.
- Susan Saint James as Sally McMillan: Stuart’s wife, who plays a significant role in the investigations and adds charm to the series.
- John Schuck as Sgt. Charles Enright: McMillan’s aide, who provides support and comic relief.
- Nancy Walker as Mildred: The McMillans’ maid, known for her wit and humor.
Guest Stars
“McMillan & Wife” featured various guest stars throughout its run, adding to the show’s appeal. Notable guest stars included:
- Wally Cox
- Eileen Brennan
- Alan Hale, Jr.
- Richard Dawson
- Linda Evans
- Barbara Feldon
- Dick Sargent
- Buddy Hackett
- Tom Bosley
- William Demarest
- Julie Newmar
- Slim Pickens
- Robert Loggia
- Tab Hunter
- Kim Basinger
- Tyne Daly
Personal Life
The personal lives of the cast members, particularly Rock Hudson and Susan Saint James, added layer of interest to the series. Hudson’s status as a Hollywood icon and Saint James’s career achievements contributed to the show’s appeal and public interest.
Real Estate
Filming locations for “McMillan & Wife” included various notable sites in San Francisco. The interior of the McMillans’ home in the pilot episode was filmed in Rock Hudson’s own house, adding a touch of authenticity to the series. Subsequent episodes featured other locations, contributing to the show’s distinctive look and feel.
Quick Facts
Original Run: September 17, 1971 – April 24, 1977
Total Episodes: 40
Creator: Leonard Stern
Network: NBC
Notable Episodes: Featured in NBC Mystery Movie rotation
Final Thoughts
“McMillan & Wife” remains a cherished part of television history, celebrated for its engaging mix of mystery, comedy, and high-society drama. The series’ memorable cast, captivating storylines, and unique blend of genres have cemented its place in TV history. Despite changes in its final season, the show continues to be appreciated by fans and remains a significant part of the legacy of 1970s television.
FAQs About McMillan & Wife
What is “McMillan & Wife” about?
“McMillan & Wife” is a police procedural television series that follows San Francisco Police Commissioner Stuart McMillan and his wife Sally as they solve crimes and navigate high-society events.
Who starred in “McMillan & Wife”?
The main cast included Rock Hudson as Stuart McMillan and Susan Saint James as Sally McMillan. Other notable cast members were John Schuck and Nancy Walker.
When did “McMillan & Wife” air?
The series aired on NBC from September 17, 1971, to April 24, 1977.
What were some notable guest stars on the show?
Guest stars included Wally Cox, Eileen Brennan, Alan Hale, Jr., and Kim Basinger.
Where was “McMillan & Wife” filmed?
The series was filmed in various locations in San Francisco, with some interior scenes shot in Rock Hudson’s own home.
Is “McMillan & Wife” available on DVD?
Yes, “McMillan & Wife” is available on DVD, with several seasons released for fans to enjoy.
Did the series undergo any changes during its run?
The series underwent significant changes in its final season, including cast changes and a rebranding to McMillan.
