Why Was Hart to Hart Short-Lived While Other US Series Succeeded During the Era?

Many people wonder why some TV series had short runs while others thrived for years. For example, why was Hart to Hart rather short-lived, considering other US series like The A-Team, Magnum PI, Hawaii Five-0, CHIPS, Dallas, Little House on the Prairie, Knight Rider, Falcon Crest, Murder She Wrote, Dynasty, Knots Landing lasted longer during the same era?

Comparing Different Series

It's pointless to directly compare the run of one series to others, as they were on different networks, broadcast at different times, and targeted various demographics. Hart to Hart began as a successful series, running for five seasons, but its duration was ultimately influenced by several factors, including the scheduling against another high-profile show and the cancellation of a lead-in program.

In its final season, Hart to Hart was scheduled against Remington Steele on NBC in the spring. Additionally, its lead-in was the series Oh Madeline, starring comedy legend Madeline Kahn, which was cancelled after one season. These two factors likely accounted for the series' decline in ratings. Its average ratings for the first three seasons were 19.9, 21.1, and 18.9, respectively. In its final season, however, the average rating dropped to 15.5, and its ranking among all shows fell to 46th place, down from 17th the year before.

Why Hart to Hart Dwindled in Popularity

Hart to Hart was an average series with nothing particularly standout about it, which is why its ratings gradually declined. This gradual decline led to the decision to cancel the series. Unlike other shows of the time, such as The A-Team, which drew attention with actresses in bikinis, Hart to Hart did not benefit from such tactics. Additionally, there was little on-screen chemistry between the actors, leading to a forgettable series.

Five seasons may seem short to some, but in the world of television, it is considered a success. Most TV shows barely make it to a half-season and are often canceled. However, Hart to Hart had eight movies following its TV run, which shows some enduring appeal. It wasn't until the 1983-1984 season that the ratings slipped, leading to its cancellation.

Regarding the death of Robert Wagner's wife, Natalie Wood, it did not seem to affect the show, which maintained its ratings well into the 1981-1982 season and into the next.

Other Series’ Higher Ratings and Popularity

The series mentioned, such as Charles's Angels, Knots Landing, Dallas, and Little House on the Prairie, have nothing to do with Hart to Hart. They were successful shows, but their success was unrelated. For instance, Hawaii Five-0, Magnum PI, CHIPS, and Knight Rider were either newer or more heavily targeted at the younger demographic. Still, they were successful due to a combination of factors, including catchy themes, market demand, and consistent audience engagement.

In the rearview mirror of history, comparing Hart to Hart to these series is not entirely relevant. By the 1980s, there were hundreds of prime-time shows come and go, and even shows that were popular had to compete with the sheer volume of programming. For example, Knight Rider was worse in terms of ratings compared to Hart to Hart.

There is no need to remember Hart to Hart because it was simply fluff. At the time, it was an enjoyable remake of the Thin Man movies, but it did not leave a lasting impact on the television industry or on viewers.