That Girl

That Girl is an iconic American sitcom that aired from 1966 to 1971 on the ABC network, bringing forward a fresh narrative in the television landscape, one that was centered around an independent young woman daring to chase her dreams in the Big Apple. The show was a fine ensemble of brilliant performance by its starring cast which included Marlo Thomas, Ted Bessell, Lew Parker, Bernie Kopell and Rosemary DeCamp.

Marlo Thomas stole the spotlight with her fantastic performance as the lead character Ann Marie, who symbolised a new generation of independent young women of her time. Ann is an aspiring actress, who wants to make it big in New York. She comes from a small town, warmly nurtured by her charming parents, played by Lew Parker and Rosemary DeCamp. With dreams in her eyes and the unflinching spark of pursuing her passion unabashedly, she moves to New York - a city that’s bubbling with life, offering endless possibilities and challenges.

Accompanying Ann on her exciting journey, as an important pillar of her life, is her boyfriend - the smart, witty and enduring character of Donald Hollinger, portrayed brilliantly by Ted Bessell. Donald works as a writer for Newsview Magazine, posing as an important balancing force to Ann’s unpredictable and somewhat chaotic life as an actress. The chemistry between Ann and Donald was one of the many enjoyable elements of the show that kept the audience hooked.

Then, there were a host of other delightful characters adding nuances and comedic elements to the storyline, such as the humorous Dr. Leon Bessemer (Bernie Kopell) and Ann's flamboyant agent Harvey Peck (Ronnie Schell).

Running for over five seasons, That Girl was indeed a game-changer of sorts during its time, as it primarily revolved around a female protagonist who was stubbornly independent, vibrant, and aspirational - a creative departure from the typical traditional family-centric sitcoms. It conveyed a progressive message for young women of the 1960s, and even today, emboldening them to seek and follow their dreams, while also managing their personal lives and relationships. The circumstances and experiences Ann Marie faced were both relatable and thought-provoking for women breaking away from traditional roles even today.

The series brilliantly blended humour with subtle social themes, incorporating comedic triumphs and tribulations of a young woman in a big city. In spite of the challenges that she faced, Ann never deviated from her path, always displaying a resilient spirit. Through its various episodes, That Girl also illustrated the dynamics of Ann's relationships, portray the 1960s lifestyle and culture, and provide authentic views of New York City's unique charm.

Beyond its plot and characters, the show also stood out in terms of its memorable theme song and Ann's trendy wardrobe, which was often the talk of the town. Marlo Thomas' style became iconic and left a substantial cultural impact, influencing fashion trends during its run.

In summary, That Girl from the New Video Group was a pioneering sitcom, presenting a refreshing and inspiring character of a young, independent woman, Ann Marie, trying to carve her own niche in the world of theatre in New York City. The lively performances by Marlo Thomas and her co-stars complemented the engaging plot, making the series iconic and loved by the audiences. Despite being set in the 60s, the show continues to remain relevant, with its core themes resonating with audiences even today. It was indeed a show that managed to leave a long-lasting footprint on the sands of television history.