Man of the People

Just as Jack Kelly took his Bart Maverick persona into "real world" politics, so James Garner adapted his Bret Maverick style to a modern day political scenario in this underrated gem of a series that was too humorous to be a drama yet too touching to be a true sitcom. As councilman Jim Doyle, Garner created a charismatic politician who used his con-man skills to "fight city hall" from within, never letting legalities or protocol get in the way of truly serving his constituents and seeking justice. Councilman Doyle (like Garner's Jim Rockford) seemed to be surrounded by annoying personalities, most notably the self-serving mayor, delectably portrayed by Kate Mulgrew, which gave his victories a sense of poetic justice. If you have the chance to catch this short-lived, almost-completely-ignored treasure, don't miss it!