"That's what you call a rabbit, son. Denny Crane!" Al Sharpton's comment to Alan in this episode could very well be handed to ION for scoring the rights to bringing tons of viewers "Boston Legal" again - from the beginning.
How thrilling to see the Old Alan, who naturally evolved after the first season; to see sanctimonious Lori Colson and wager-addicted, super compe***ive Brad Chase; to hear "Lock and Load" from a commanding Name on the Door, no inkling of Mad Cow as Denny mutes his subordinates.
The ratings for the last time this episode aired [Oct. 3, 2004] was outstanding - and I believe it will be here on ION as well. In 2004, "Boston Legal" debuted a strong No. 1 in its hour, besting second-place NBC's "Crossing Jordan" by 1 million viewers (13.8 million vs. 12.8 million) and by 14% in Adults 18-49 (5.0/13 vs. 4.4/11). The program debut of "Boston Legal" produced ABC's strongest Total Viewer and Adult 18-49 numbers with a series in the time period in 2 years - since 10/0/02.
Just for fun, read how the pilot was originally going to start. This was written in July and aired in October. Follow along with the episode. Much remains, but some was edited out.
Hey Dana-Good to see you over here..
I've never read those pages of deleted lines before and they are a riot. Would have loved to see them.
From what I've read, the first episode ( this one) was actually filmed twice. Once more on the dramatic side , then redone with a more comedic tilt. Obviously the comedy won out, as we all know what happened...
I am so glad ION is bringing this incredible series back for all to see. Hopefully a whole new fan base will be created. Too many people are ignorant of this brilliant show.
Thank you Dana for the recap and especially for the look at the original pilot episode. I would have loved to have heard James deliver those deleted lines. They were just... so Alan.
I am really looking forward to viewing tonights episode. Even though I own the DVDs I plan to watch each and every show weekly on ION. Many thanks to ION for picking up the syndication rights to this truely marvelous show.
Boston Legal is an okay show - I used to watch it a lot in season 2. I love Candice Bergen - she's definitely great in this show! I heard this season is going to be its last, which is sad, because this is the best courtroom drama on television!
I don't plan on watching on ION, though. I own the DVD's.
Watch:
Medium, Mondays at 10pm, on NBC!
Big Bang Theory, Mondays at 8pm, on CBS!
The Mentalist, Tuesdays at 9pm, on CBS!
Old Christine, Wednesdays at 8pm, on CBS!
Hell's Kitchen, Thursdays at 9pm, on FOX!
1x01 'Head Cases'
All views are appreciated! 
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