Promotion of "Philly".  By A. Long

Promotion of “Philly”.  By A. Long

Bochco expresses understanding of ABC time changes, but worries about “NYPDs” new competition on Wednesday night. “NYPD” now occupies the 10PM timeslot against NBC’s “Law & Order” while “Philly” will take over “NYPD’s” old Tuesday slot. ABC explains its refusal to renew NYPD just yet as a sound decision from a business standpoint.  By A. Long

“Philly” is scheduled to run during “NYPD Blue’s” timeslot on Tuesdays. NYPD Blue’s performance in its new timeslot on Wednesday worries Bochco, since the network has not renewed the show for its 10^th season. The network hopes the Tuesday timeslot will capture the established NYPD audience.  By A. Long

Rutenberg examines the causes for increases in explicit language present in “Philly” as opposed to his previous “NYPD Blue.” Broadcast television has been long characterized with significant give-and-take exchanges between censors and producers to gradually lower standards. Traditionally, standards on broadcast have been higher due to public accessibility versus the anything-goes cable network, which has recently been posing a threat to network’s market share. Changing censorship rules are molding the movement of both television and pop/local culture. Bochco continues to demand looser restrictions.  By A. Long

Kim Delaney leaves “NYPD Blue” in order to star in Bochco’s new “Philly.” The agreement is a win-win situation for the actress as she is guaranteed a returning role to “NYPD Blue” should the show be canceled after 13 episodes. Bochco states that he felt Delaney was underutilized on the current show and welcomed the opportunity to write a new role for her. While two roles of Diane Russell and Kathleen Macguire are women working around criminals and male coworkers, the new character of Kathleen is less cynical and damaged. Delaney interviewed several Philadelphia-based defense lawyers in preparation for her role.  By A. Long

Gallo speculates that the public acceptance of Bochco’s trial drama depends on former “NYPD Blue” star Kim Delaney’s performance as Kathleen Macguire. The character roles are fairly similar: strong candid females with inexplicable drive to set things right. The city is subtly a background, with few differences from New York City.  By A. Long

Deggan explains the controversial racial issues of the show "Philly". He questions Bochco’s lack of consideration for the implications of an all-white core cast defending black offenders for Philadelphia. Racial groups such NAACP, La Raza, and many minority viewers have expressed outrage that 21^st century television does not better reflect the changing composition and increasing diversity of our society. By A. Long