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Today in History: NBC launches sitcom Cheers with debut pilot

By Drooid · Sep 30, 2026, 10:35 AM UTC · How we work

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Summary

Story summary

On September 30 1982, NBC launched the sitcom *Cheers* with the pilot “Give Me a Ring Sometime.” Created by Glen and Les Charles and directed by James Burrows, the episode introduced Boston’s bar and its staff—Sam, Diane, Coach, Carla—and regulars Norm and Cliff, establishing a setting that would run eleven seasons.

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Story summary

On September 30 1982, NBC launched the sitcom *Cheers* with the pilot “Give Me a Ring Sometime.” Created by Glen and Les Charles and directed by James Burrows, the episode introduced Boston’s bar and its staff—Sam, Diane, Coach, Carla—and regulars Norm and Cliff, establishing a setting that would run eleven seasons.