dlandwdw

Wow! The absence of Diana Hyland , as the Bradford mom, leaves a huge void. In the first three episodes she was the glue that melded this family together. Her common sense, firm yet loving persona, humor and understanding propelled each episode forward. The writers made a gross mistake by completely ignoring Mrs Bradford's storyline. Not a word regarding her absence. Of course we all know, in hindsight, that Diana was dealing with a real life crisis, the life ending cancer that took this talented actress away from us far too soon. As viewers we all deserved some sort of explanation, as painful as it may have been for the producers/writers. The show lasted five seasons, but never regained the spark that Hyland brought to the table, if only for a few episodes. RIP Diana, you left an indelible mark.