The Rise and Fall of 'Supertrain': A Cautionary Tale in Television History
The world of television is filled with stories of success and failure, but few are as intriguing and costly as the tale of 'Supertrain'. This 1970s sci-fi drama was supposed to be NBC's ticket to the top, but it quickly became a financial disaster and a cautionary tale in the annals of TV history.
A Bold Vision Gone Wrong
Fred Silverman, the TV executive behind iconic shows like 'All In The Family' and 'Happy Days', had a bold vision for 'Supertrain'. He wanted to create a 'Love Boat' on rails, a luxurious and futuristic train where social interactions would take center stage. It was a unique concept, but one that required a substantial investment. NBC, under Silverman's leadership, poured millions into this ambitious project, hoping to replicate the success of their previous hits.
What makes this story fascinating is the sheer scale of the production. The two-hour pilot episode alone cost a staggering $7 million, making it the most expensive show in TV history at the time. They built lavish sets, including swimming pools and shopping centers, and even spent $10 million on three detailed model trains. This level of expenditure was unprecedented and set the stage for a dramatic fall.
A Lackluster Reception
'Supertrain' was meant to captivate audiences with its swanky setting and melodramatic storylines. However, it failed to deliver on both fronts. The sets, despite their grandeur, felt claustrophobic, and the storylines, ranging from murder mysteries to jewelry heists, lacked the sparkle they promised. The show's debut, a two-hour special, should have been a grand entrance, but it failed to capture the public's imagination.
The cast, led by Edward Andrews and Robert Alda, was joined by guest stars like Dick Van Dyke, but even their presence couldn't save the show from its fate. The Hollywood Reporter noted that 'Supertrain' failed to win its time slot with its first five episodes, a clear sign of trouble. The show underwent a revamp, reducing the main cast and changing its tone, but these efforts were in vain.
A Costly Lesson
The financial implications of 'Supertrain' were immense. Each episode cost a whopping $500,000, and when combined with the millions spent on sets and models, it became a significant burden for NBC. The show's failure coincided with the U.S. boycott of the 1980 Olympics, which further impacted NBC's revenue. This perfect storm of circumstances nearly pushed the network into bankruptcy, a stark reminder of the risks in the TV industry.
Interestingly, the story of 'Supertrain' doesn't end with its cancellation. Years later, a model train enthusiast, Ben Thoburn, unknowingly purchased one of the original model trains used in the show. This train, a 50-foot-long relic, found its way back to the entertainment industry when it was sold to producer Jack Morrissey, who had been captivated by it during the show's original run.
Lessons for the TV Industry
The rise and fall of 'Supertrain' offer several insights into the TV industry. Firstly, it highlights the importance of balancing creative vision with financial prudence. While taking risks is essential for innovation, the consequences of failure can be devastating. NBC's gamble on 'Supertrain' was a bold move, but it lacked the substance to sustain it.
Secondly, this story reminds us of the fickle nature of audience tastes. What might seem like a surefire hit on paper can fall flat in reality. 'Supertrain' had all the ingredients for success, yet it couldn't connect with viewers. This raises questions about the predictability of audience preferences and the challenges of creating content that resonates.
Lastly, the tale of 'Supertrain' serves as a warning against excessive spending without a solid foundation. NBC's investment in the show was substantial, but it lacked the audience engagement to justify it. This case study underscores the need for a more nuanced approach to budgeting and resource allocation in television production.
In conclusion, 'Supertrain' is more than just a TV flop; it's a symbol of the risks and rewards inherent in the entertainment industry. It serves as a reminder that even the most promising ideas can falter, and success is never guaranteed. As the TV landscape continues to evolve, the story of 'Supertrain' remains a valuable lesson in managing expectations, understanding audience dynamics, and making informed production decisions.
