WHY WAS CPO SHARKEY CANCELLED?

In the annals of television history, few shows have polarized audiences like "CPO Sharkey." The sitcom, which aired on CBS from 1976 to 1978, followed the misadventures of Chief Petty Officer Sharkey, a bumbling Navy officer stationed in San Diego. The show was a critical and commercial failure, and it was canceled after just two seasons. But what exactly led to its demise?

A Precarious Start

From the very beginning, "CPO Sharkey" faced an uphill battle. The show was plagued by production problems, including a difficult star (Don Rickles) and a revolving door of writers and producers. The show's premise was also seen as outdated, as it relied on tired stereotypes of military life.

Naval Mishaps

The show's portrayal of the Navy was particularly problematic. Critics accused the show of being disrespectful to the military, and some even went so far as to call it anti-American. The show's writers often resorted to slapstick humor and physical comedy, which further alienated viewers.

Sharkey's Sass

Don Rickles, who played CPO Sharkey, was known for his acerbic wit and insulting humor. While this style of comedy may have worked in a stand-up routine, it didn't translate well to a sitcom. Rickles's constant put-downs and insults alienated viewers, and many found him to be more annoying than funny.

Changing Channels

By the end of its second season, "CPO Sharkey" was hemorrhaging viewers. The show's ratings had plummeted, and CBS was losing money. The network eventually pulled the plug on the show, much to the relief of critics and viewers alike.

Lessons Learned

The cancellation of "CPO Sharkey" taught Hollywood a valuable lesson: audiences are not always receptive to shows that rely on tired stereotypes and outdated humor. The show's failure also underscored the importance of casting the right actor for the lead role. In the case of "CPO Sharkey," Don Rickles's acerbic wit proved to be more of a hindrance than a help.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Did "CPO Sharkey" ever win any awards?

No, the show was never nominated for any major awards.

• How many episodes of "CPO Sharkey" were produced?

There were 36 episodes of "CPO Sharkey" produced in total.

• Who created "CPO Sharkey"?

The show was created by Alan King and Don Rickles.

• Where was "CPO Sharkey" filmed?

The show was filmed at CBS Studio Center in Los Angeles, California.

• Is "CPO Sharkey" available on DVD?

No, the show has never been released on DVD.