after almost two decades, its flavor remains fresh. the adventures - seductive, the humor - charming. and the West - like a big fairy tale book. because it represents, yet, ideal family series. using classic recipes and classic recipes, few cultural references and the science to give the large picture of a life style and the way to integrate a stranger, woman and doctor. the love, the values, the dramas, the conflicts, the joys, the family spirit, the grow up of children, the generosity and solidarity are the spices who creates a special status for this series in the heart of the public. and it is a good thing. because it represents a bridge from the spirit of "80țs series to the last decade of century. in the right style.

Where do I begin with this incredible show. Bravo to to CBS and Beth Sullivan for realizing America was more than ready for another hit Western series, long after GUNSMOKE ended. What genius ability went into this production. In fact, that's an understatement. From its fascinating 3-hr premiere; not only were modern viewers captivated by a new television western, but that it starred mini-series queen herself, Jane Seymour, in the title role.Though most of the pilot characters were recast; kicking off the first season; it was all in good standing. The best replacement was Henry Sanders (ROBERT E). He brought so much more fire and personality to that role. And the introduction of 'Grace', whom he would later marry, was most endearing. Then, Sullivan needed a much younger, attractive 'Jake'; understood. How quaint, her own spouse, actor Jim Knobeloch, deemed perfect! 'Sully' would become Joe Lando's signature role. No actor could have replaced him. He will always be regarded as Byron Sully. William Shockley was unforgettable as 'Hank'. How could you honestly hate the guy? Yes he could be seriously temperamental at times, but he was always honest, and those gorgeous baby blues; he sure gave Sully a run for the ladies! This show brought the frontier life to a whole new perspective. It was kept real. Here you had a Bostonian raised, refined woman physician; trained under the masterful eye of her own physician father, endearing chance by taking a huge risk to move far away from home, to a wilderness she knew nothing about. Naturally upon her arrival, townsfolk would not take to her so keenly. A woman doctor was historically and realistically unheard of, in 1850. Obviously, a few colleges provided medical training to female physician's. However, like our 19th and 21st Amendments; they also were not taken seriously; still treated abhorrently as 'Assistant's, rather than certified doctors.And the Native American's. Their story was vividly portrayed, not just in the Washita incident, but also during the many trials with the Federal and Union Armys. This wasn't a typical shoot-em-up-cowboys-and-indians drama. It was history - brought to life. That is also what captivated audiences. Jessica Bowman taking over 'Colleen': Yes fans were disappointed. However, I felt Bowman brought a newer, fresh approach to the role, and adapted quite well. She eventually came through and made it her own. Besides, I seriously doubt any actual screen chemistry between (Ericka) Flores and the future 'Andrew'(Brandon) Douglass. Larry Sellers.....was legendary as 'Cloud Dancing'. What more can one say? I know I totally fell in love with him! Ingenious idea; matching him with 'Dorothy', during S5. Their screen chemistry was undeniable. I grew even more captivated witnessing the love blossom between them.And lest not forget, the addition of Daniel Simon; Legendary hunk - former 'Duke boy', John Schneider. Had producers decided Sully get killed off, Daniel would have been the only suitable mate choice for Mike.Shame to CBS for prematurely canceling it. There were several areas of blame; none of which were true. And most sadly, there has never been another series quite like this, today. The writers were exceptional, the directors brought scenes to life, and Sullivan made us fall in love with ALL her characters.Hats off to you, Ms. Sullivan, for the finest of the American frontier.

I would first like to address the clueless individual who said this show lacked any kind of historical accuracy. Being a student of history and have taken enough classes in college to know the subject quite well, yes it did embellish certain things but not all of it was BS. Fact: There were a handful of women who were educated and did have degrees in medicine, they primarily came from what we would consider today Liberal areas in the North i.e. Boston, Philadelphia. Fact: The genocide that human garbage such as Custer and Chivington did to the Native Americans was well documented and treated very solidly during the two parter where Custer slaughtered Native Americans at Washita. Fact: After the Civil War, many people including single women, very few but they did make the trek, moved West because of the nightmarish slaughter of the War. Also it's spelled History or if you wanted to say Herstory, it's Her Story. You need to go back to school or take some anger management classes, given your hostile and laughable comment on a great show. Only drawback was the last season where Sully was living in a cave after killing that insect Sgt. O'Connor played very well by Patrick Kilpatrick. Also when Sully held that dead Indian baby after the Washita Massacre I was in college at the time taking a U.S. History course and did a paper on low life Custer, got an A- for that! Again, a great show that I wish could have gone on for at least one more season. Jane Seymour and the rest of the cast came into their own roles very well and it's a shame that it's not shown that much on T.V. anymore. FX, bring it back!

Outstanding television show where young Dr. Quinn gets her medical degree and gives up a life of luxury in New England and ventures forth to the wild west.The scenery and the stories were absolutely captivating.As the wonderful doctor, Jane Seymour etched an unforgettable character. Soon taking on a family when their mother is killed in an Indian attack, Dr. Quinn shows that she is a lovable person as well as a humanitarian.As Sully, the Indian guide, Joe Lando was terrific in this part. At first brooding because of the death of Abigail, his wife, he learns to love the good doctor and they soon wed as he takes on the responsibility of a family.With a terrific supporting cast led by Orson Bean and others, the show had different weekly stories. One was better than the other.A show depicting warm family values. Our current presidential candidates could easily learn from this show.