Simon & Simon

Simon & Simon is an American detective television drama series that aired on the CBS network from 1981 to 1989. The show was created by Philip DeGuere Jr. and is populated by a talented cast, including Gerald McRaney, Jameson Parker, Eddie Barth, and Tim Reid.

The crux of Simon & Simon revolves around the Simon brothers, who run a private detective agency together in San Diego, California. The central characters, A.J. Simon, played by Jameson Parker, and Rick Simon, portrayed by Gerald McRaney, are complete opposites, fostering much of the show’s humor and drama.

Rick embodies the stereotypical macho man with a rough-and-gutty disposition: a Vietnam War veteran turned semi-professional drifter who’s comfortable in dangerous situations and old-school in his ways. In juxtaposition, his younger brother A.J. is polished, sophisticated and ambitious. He’s a college-educated professional who prefers following procedures and working within the system. Their contrasting personalities lead to frequent disagreements and competitive bantering, yet add an authentic touch to their brotherly bond.

Despite their differences, the Simon brothers' distinct skills create a balance when solving crimes, making the duo a formidable team. They frequently take on cases that the police cannot handle, navigating the world of theft, murder, and intrigue. The series creatively blends drama, humor, and action to keep viewers engaged.

Eddie Barth assumes the role of Myron Fowler, a disheartened former cop who occasionally helps the Simons on their cases. Barth's character adds a cynical yet much-needed outlook that complements the brothers' dynamic. Tim Reid, a later addition to the series, plays Lieutenant Marcel 'Downtown' Brown. Reid’s character is a talented and composed police detective with a keen insight that often aids in crime-solving.

San Diego, with its vibrant landscapes and diverse populace, becomes an integral part of Simon & Simon's narrative. The city's scenic locales serve as the backdrop for action-packed car chases, stakeouts, and investigations. The series made extensive use of city landmarks, beaches, and neighborhoods to lend authenticity to storylines involving high-stakes detective work.

One of the notable aspects of Simon & Simon is its opening sequence featuring a split-screen montage that clearly defines the contrasting lifestyles of the Simon brothers. The theme song, composed by Barry De Vorzon and Michael Towers, is an integral part of this sequence, setting the tone for the on-screen camaraderie and adventure.

The supporting characters, including the brothers' loving and ever-concerned mother Cecilia Simon (played Mary Carver), add depth and warmth to the storyline. Throughout the series, they function to humanize the detectives, adding layers to their character's development outside their action-packed work life.

Simon & Simon is not just a detective series but also a study of fraternal relationships. The series goes further than most detective shows of its time by placing a strong emphasis on the Simon brothers' personal lives. This connection serves as a reminder that beneath the rugged crime-fighting exterior, they are family, steadfast in their loyalty to each other.

Despite the common theme of crime-solving inherent in this genre, Simon & Simon stands out for its unique blend of humor and drama, providing an entertaining mix of high-action crime-fighting and familial bonding. While engaging in daring investigations and thrilling pursuits, the show manages to maintain a strong emotional core, emphasizing both the professional and personal aspects of the Simon brothers' lives.

In conclusion, Simon & Simon is a memorable addition to television's detective genre. Its uniqueness lies not only in the unconventional crime-busting methods of the Simon brothers, but also in how it paints a compelling picture of their contrasting personalities and the bond they share despite their glaring differences. It’s this balance between high-stake crimes and deeply personal stories that kept audiences captivated during its long run from 1981 to 1989.