On this episode of The Holiday Specials We Love, we dive
into Cheers: “Thanksgiving Orphans” from 1986 — one of the most beloved
Thanksgiving sitcom episodes ever made.
We talk the chaos that unfolds when everyone’s plans fall
through and the gang ends up at Carla’s house. Norm forgets to cook the turkey,
Diane arrives in full pilgrim attire, Sam’s date cancels and we are reminded
of the struggles of the big box TVs.
We talk the sharp writing, perfect pacing, and heart beneath
the humor. The legendary food fight that begins with a spoonful of cranberry
sauce and ends in sitcom history. It’s classic Cheers: fast, funny, and
somehow deeply human — capped by Sam’s quiet toast “to Coach,” creating one of
the show’s most touching moments.
We go behind-the-scenes: the mostly improvised food fight,
Rhea Perlman hiding her pregnancy behind props, and how the studio reportedly smelled like Thanksgiving dinner for days after filming. Vera finally “appears,” sort of, and Diane’s colonial costume gets the send-up it deserves.
Thanksgiving Orphans is a reminder that the best holidays
aren’t always the ones you plan — but the ones you survive together.
Text your favorite Thanksgiving memories to 351-251-2511,
and don’t forget to leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts!
Talk Shawtly
