Cagney & Lacey

Cagney & Lacey is a groundbreaking and critically acclaimed American television series that aired on CBS from 1981 to 1988. The series centers around the lives and professional careers of two New York City police detectives, Christine Cagney and Mary Beth Lacey, played by the dynamic duo of Sharon Gless and Tyne Daly, respectively. Noted for its thoughtful handling of issues rarely seen on TV at that time, particularly from the perspective of women, the show successfully broke new ground in the police procedural genre and paved the way for contemporary series like Law & Order: SVU and Major Crimes.

Premiering in the early '80s, the show was remarkably ahead of its time, presenting its viewers with protagonists who were tough yet empathetic, committed to their jobs yet also dealing with intricate personal lives. The characters of Cagney and Lacey were pioneers in television, as they were two female detectives operating in a heavily male-dominated environment. Their relationship, professionally and personally, and their differing approaches to balancing their careers with their personal lives, formed the pulse of the show.

Christine Cagney, portrayed by Sharon Gless (though the role was originally performed by Meg Foster in the first six episodes of season 1), is a single, career-minded woman, with her focus squarely on ascending the ranks of the NYPD. Cagney is ambitious and determined, but not without her personal flaws – a detail that gave her character depth and believability. Her struggles with alcoholism were a cornerstone of several impactful storylines throughout the series.

Mary Beth Lacey, played by the indomitable Tyne Daly, is a married working mother with a sincere concern for the victims of the crimes she investigates. Her character often provided the counterbalance to Cagney's intensity, delivering calm, reasoned responses in the face of crisis. She represented a segment of society rarely seen in these roles on TV at the time – the working-class mother trying to balance her home life with a demanding, often dangerous career.

The chemistry between the two leads was palpable, their performances providing the foundation for the series' success. The authenticity of their layered and complex friendship was widely praised, standing out as a testament to the sophisticated writing and nuanced performances that the show consistently delivered.

Throughout its seven seasons, Cagney & Lacey cultivated an impressive reputation for social commentary. Various episodes dealt head-on with topical societal issues such as women's rights, domestic violence, sexual harassment, homophobia, and alcoholism. The portrayals of these delicate topics were generally received as intelligent, sensitive, and authentic. This refreshing and empathetic portrayal of various societal issues, and the very real effects they can have on those who deal with them, helped elevate the series from a typical cop show to a significant cultural commentary.

Cagney & Lacey showcases strong performances and crisp, insightful writing that takes viewers behind the detective shields of its two leads, deeper into their personal spaces and shared experiences. The series was acknowledged for its efforts with multiple prestigious awards, including six Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for Tyne Daly and two for Sharon Gless, among others.

With its unique blending of character-driven storytelling, gritty police procedural elements, and unabashed social commentary, Cagney & Lacey stood as a unique proposition in the television landscape of the ‘80s. The influence it has had, both on its genre and on broader cultural norms, is undeniable. It truly was a show that pushed boundaries, and in doing so, left an indelible mark on the medium of television.