Ed (2000–2004) User Reviews

fun group of characters

[SnoopyStyle · 8/10 · 13 September 2015]

Ed Stevens (Tom Cavanagh) hates his job as a contracts lawyer in NYC. When he misplaces a comma costing the firm $1.6 million, he gets fired. He goes home to find his wife Liz in bed with a mailman (not THE mailman). While feeling nostalgia for high school, he flies back to Stuckeyville, Ohio to ask out cheerleader dream girl Carol Vessey (Julie Bowen). The only problem is that Carol doesn't know who he is and she already has a boyfriend. Carol is now teaching at the high school with Ed's old friend Molly Hudson (Lesley Boone). His best friend Mike Burton (Josh Randall) is a doctor struggling to take over the practice from retiring Dr. Walter Jerome. Mike and his wife Nancy Burton (Jana Marie Hupp) has a baby girl. Ed decides to buy the local bowling alley and then starts his small town law office there. Phil Stubbs (Michael Ian Black), Shirley Pifko (Rachel Cronin) and Kenny Sandusky (Mike Starr) are three weirdos who work at the bowling alley. Kenny would later leave to be replaced by the wheelchair bound Eli Goggins (Daryl Mitchell). Warren Cheswick (Justin Long), Mark Vanacore (Michael Genadry) and Diane Snyder (Ginnifer Goodwin) are three of the students in Carol's class who show up prominently in the Ed and Carol saga.

The show starts by hooking the audience on Ed chasing Carol. It also introduces some great fun side characters. It's a great group. While the back and forth between Ed and Carol is fun for awhile, the show does struggle to figure out what to do with the relationship at a certain point. The big showdown between Carol and Frankie does have some problems. Unlike the other romantic connections, Frankie is a simple nice girl and her departure leaves a sour taste. The show is not a ratings juggernaut for the first three seasons. In the fourth and final shorten season, it fades when Ed finally catches Carol and loses the energy of unrequited love. Carol going to NYC doesn't help but the die was cast by then. The last half season is mostly trying to inject some drama as the show wraps up.

Welcome back, Ed Stevens!

[marcus_stokes2000 · 9/10 · 12 June 2007]

*Ed SPOILERS*

Ed Stevens (Tom Cavanagh, 'Scrubs') is a lawyer with a good job and a loving wife; but one day he gets fired for having forgotten a comma in a contract which creates a loss of 1,500,000 $ and coming home finds his wife in bed with the postman.

So he decides to move back to his hometown of Stuckeyville, where he ends up living with his best friend Mike (Josh Randall), who's now a doctor, married and father of a baby girl, and becoming the owner of the local bowling, which he not only revitalizes, but opens a law practice in.

And let's not forget one of the reasons he moved back to Stuckeyville; Carol Vessey (Julie Bowen, 'ER'), the girl Ed has always been smitten with and who is now a teacher at the local high school.

An interesting, quirky drama in the vein of 'Everwood', 'Ed' manages to gently attract your interest and have you spend 45 minutes in their very enjoyable company, being kind of sad when the ending credits appear.

Ed: 9/10.

very uneven show

[adam-1009 · 7/10 · 24 May 2007]

Since the beginning this show was reminding me few others (f.e. "Northern exposure" with specialist moving to small town where people have different point of view to life), but I was really enjoying watching how he handles sometimes really strange cases and how he moves back to his childhood times.

Unfortunately with time the creators have apparently run out of ideas for interesting cases and Ed's work was used only to fill up the gaps between plots with kids in high school, his own problems with Carol or Mike's rather uninteresting marriage stories. The last season in which Ed and Carol are together was pushed waaaaaaay too far into romantic field that sometimes it was really depressing (they will be together, they won't, they will, they won't, they will marry, they won't, etc).

I loved the idea, I loved the characters, even the cast, but the series was really uneven - some episodes were great and few next were really crappy and full of clichés from romantic comedies or "crazy high school C-class movies".

"Ed" was a really good show and if the creators would cut the complete-waste-of-time parts it would even be great. But they didn't, so for me it's only a very good show.

On of the best shows on TV!

[dvanhouwelingen · 24 October 2000]

After just three episodes, the TV show ED has quickly become one of my favorites. Having seen the previews for it, I wasn't expecting much- the premise struck me as stupid- a big town lawyer travels back to his small home town to win the heart of his high school crush, buys a bowling ally and opens a law practice in it. But I was surprised at how intelligent the show is. Like last years FREAKS AND GEEKS this is one of the few hour long comedies to actually sustain laughter throughout the entire episode. The cast is perfect- Tom Cavangh as Ed delivers a consistantly hilarious performance and Julie Bowen as Carol Vessey is gorgeous, but also finds hidden depths to her character. Gregory Harrison plays a great pompous ass as Carol's boyfriend. The show is witty and hilarious- a constant winner.

Simply the best

[jedi-121 · 10/10 · 21 October 2006]

In my personal opinion (and this is what it's all about isn't it, opinions?) I believe that "Ed" is the best television show ever made. The characters, plots and ideals make me laugh, cry, get angry, happy and you get a real sense of knowing the people in the show. I feel like I could walk up to, say, Mike and say: "Hey Mike, ten bucks if you walk across the road like a chicken saying "I love spam". I refer to the comment by Rick Blaine from London about there being two types of humour and agree precisely with his point. To anyone who has seen the show: you will probably agree with me. To anyone who hasn't: do yourself a favour and track it down. That's my opinion anyway.

Truly Unique and Fantastic TV

[capcomeback · 10/10 · 31 July 2006]

"Ed" was a one-of-a-kind gem: a show that could be quirky, hip, goofy and smart at the same time. "Ed" never failed to be funny, touching, thoughtful or inspirational (sometimes all in the same episode). Maybe it was the premise of a lawyer who set up shop in a bowling alley that he bought, but one could get the impression that some people may have not been interested for that reason. At any rate, the lucky who tuned in were delighted by the antics of the characters, appreciative of the depth and quality of writing, and witness to one of the most charming love stories to ever grace the small screen (or any screen for that matter). It is a pity that more people did not discover it in its initial run. Hopefully it will air again (in syndication or cable) in the US in the near future so that more people can discover this wonderful program.

Best new series of the season

[BillK-5 · 10/10 · 13 October 2000]

Ed is simply charming and amazing, I've rarely fallen for a series so quickly. I just hope the writers can keep the quality up and not fall into a Northern Exposure-esque trap.

(Let's also hope they don't drag Ed and Carol out for years and get them together soon. It's generally a rule where if they get together fairly early, it works, but if they drag it out it becomes a whole Sam/Diane thing where getting them together kills the show...)

All time Fantastic show

[tipka · 10/10 · 25 July 2006]

This show had everything: comedy, drama, romance, inspiration, empathy, terrific music, excellent actors and actresses. I wish it were still on. The warmth exhibited by Tom Cavanagh is seldom seen on TV. This show stands heads and shoulders above the "reality" shows and game shows that are so popular today.

I was a part of the group that tried to convince NBC to have another season. We raised $5000 in about a week from fans all over the world in order to put an ad in Variety, we hired a skywriter, we sent balloons to NBC, we wrote letters containing fake ten dollar bills with Ed Stevens' picture on them...sadly to no avail.

Ed was more than a show. It was a community. A lifestyle. The show has motivated many fans to be better people.

8.5 rating in 'will they won't they' tv drama category

[sushantkumar-ce · 9/10 · 25 April 2021]

I think this is one of the top undermined tv series in this category. The story is somehow similar to others in this category, but holding interest to the last is important for a good tv series. Thanks for making this series.

Not The Type Of Show I Look Forward To.

[Mr_Sensitive · 5/10 · 29 July 2005]

I'm not a fan of Ed or anything. It is not the show that I find myself looking forward to each and every week but I always end up watching it. Somehow, I don't feel attaching to it. Also I find that they're more of me that dislike about the show than I like.

After watching it for sometime I found that the story is very cliché each and every week. Ed solves case (mostly involve friendship, and family), Ed challenges his best friend to some kid dish prank, Ed talks to Carol, and so on. My reason to watch was Phil and Warren, they are great and very humorous.

Ed is more of a child live in a grown up body and still live in the history of his high school year. So most of the episodes I'll find myself watching some childish like behavior, where most of the stuff ends up perfectly and beautifully. Just like Full House.

Recommendation: If You Like "Happy Family" Kind Of Story, Then This Is It.

Rating: 5/10 (Grade: D)

Please Rate My Review (Yes or No) After Reading It – Thanks

All the possibilities in the world!

[BigEd-4 · 11 October 2000]

With all of the predictable and formulaic sitcoms on TV, what a refreshing joy it was to see something that dared to be different, to set its own course, to go its own way.

"Ed" is the charming account of a man's search for personal redemption by not looking where everyone's head says to go, but where his heart says. Ed Stevens has the day of his life when he is fired from his job as an NYC contract attorney and finds his wife with another man. He uses this as the opportunity to overcome his fears and pursue his dreams.

Returning to his home town of Stuckyville, he pursues his highschool crush, buys the local bowling alley and practices small town law.

A delight for dreamers and romantics of all ages and genders!

Does anyone know how to find this show in 2018?

[stephen-e-garrett · 10/10 · 9 November 2018]

Loved the show many years ago when it originally aired on NBC when I was in college. I've been trying for years to find it to purchase or stream, but can't seem to find it anywhere. Does anyone know where to find it? Many thanks!

Very underrated show

[Maniac-9 · 9/10 · 9 February 2012]

One of my favorite shows when it originally aired. The show is about a lawyer who comes back to his hometown after he finds his wife cheating on him with the mailman. After he's back he buys the local bowling alley which he also sets up his law practice in.

The show is filled with tons of quirky characters and all the characters seem to have great chemistry together.

Ed's best friend is Mike who's a doctor and each of them make $10 bets with each other making the other do embarrassing dares. The object of Ed's affection is Carol who he had a crush on in high school.

A lot of actors from this show have gone onto really successful careers post Ed.

Julie Bowen is now the star of Modern Family. Ginnifer Goodwin has been in a ton of movies and also was on Big Love. Justin Long has been in multiple movies.

Damian Long brings some serious heat to this 😳

[bahl_sezuhcker · 10/10 · 23 November 2021]

Damian Long, deserved voice of Alvin, is the most talented actor of our time. No disrespect to the other actors of course but his acting capabilities make this a spectacle.

Additionally, his vocabulary and grammar skills make for a gramaticaly correct delivery that I've seen nowhere else.

One of The Greats

[Big O-7 · 13 November 2001]

NBC should thank their lucky stars that executive producer David Letterman lets them air this after what they did to him. In return for giving NBC 10 years of classic late night programming and then being denied The Tonight Show, Mr. Letterman - proving ever the gentleman - gives NBC one of the best shows ever put on tv. There is no profanity on ED, there are no torrid sex scenes, and the characters have to take responsibility for their actions. Sure, they're a little eccentric, but aren't we all? Who wouldn't want to own a bowling alley (and kiss Julie Bowen)? I sincerely hope that this show doesn't suffer the same fates as SPORTS NIGHT and THE JOB. The show is already up there with NORTHERN EXPOSURE and HOMICIDE and other all-time greats.

Hysterical Lucidity

[Schleprock · 27 February 2003]

This past episode CAPTAIN LUCIDITY, where Ed gets control of his dreams through 'lucid dreaming' - was absolute genius comedy. I was deep in hysterics. A nice change of pace from the usual guy/girl friction.

Through a 'controlled' dream-state, Ed (along with all the other lovable clowns on this under-appreciated show) navigates his romantic concerns and desires for Frankie, and usual heart-beacon Carol Vessey. Nice concept, eh? Well, the writers hardly settled for the concept alone. They ran with it Gump style!! Absolute brilliant use of the entire cast's character traits (though some 'Cheswick' moments were sadly ignored). I'd swear 'Ed Stevens' wrote the episode. What higher compliment can you pay to the writers? That was one impressive hour of entertainment, folks. Absolute comic brilliance. And to boot - a fine dramatic closing. When you're laughing along with a tear-jerker moment - you know you've been won over.

I'll bet ya 10 bucks you can't top that episode...

"Charming" is the word

[Curly-27 · 16 October 2000]

There was so much hype preceding this show that I decided to tune in on its debut night. I'm glad I did! Thomas Cavanaugh is like a modern day Jimmy Stewart. His character knows that his looks alone aren't going to get the girl, but creativity, endurance and treating her better than anyone has before will get the job done. The whole ensemble works well together and you feel like you're watching real people. The last time I fell in love with a show this fast it was a little-known show called "Friends" 6 years ago. We know how that turned out!!

The Right Kind of Humour

[UACW · 24 June 2001]

Humour may perhaps be divided into two broad categories: the kind that gets laughs at the expense of others, and the kind that lets you see people as they really are, and gets you to enjoy them and laugh with them. Obviously the latter is better and makes us feel better about ourselves and everything. It is perhaps also more difficult to create: witness the cheap shots Leno and Letterman always stoop to. But Ed loves its characters, and they are a wonder to watch. And the red line through it all is the relationship between Ed and Carol (Julie Bowen, Happy Gilmore): everyone knows they are made for each other, but the writers know too that postponing the inevitable is what keeps us coming back.

Great Show with truly interesting people

[speedyholm · 29 October 2003]

One of the best shows in a long time. All the characters are just great. Ed is a loving and interesting person, great imagination. Julie Bowen is very very lovely (Its not only Ed who falls in love with her). In general the cast is great. What can I say, this show is just a pleasure to watch.

Fulfillment of every young man's fantasy!

[TxMike · 7 May 2001]

I am a retired, grandfather with 5 grown children. So, why do I like the TV series, "ED", so much? Because almost every one of us who were boys in school can identify. We all had that secret "crush" on a pretty and popular girl, and felt inadequate to ask her out. For Ed, played by Tom Cavanagh, that girl was Carol Vessey, played by Julie Bowen, who now is a teacher at their old high school. After his divorce, Ed returns to Stuckeyville, meets up with Carol, is inspired to buy a bowling alley, and sets up his law office inside. "I am not a bowling alley lawyer. I am a lawyer, who also happens to own a bowling alley," insists Ed.

The writing is good and witty, and Cavanagh is perfect as "Ed". All the cast are fine, but my special favorites are Michael Ian Black as the enterprising bowling alley employee "Phil", and Justin Long as "Warren Cheswick", the geek who gets so flustered when he thinks he has a chance with the girl he likes. After failing to win the affections of "Miss Vessey." We always set aside time to watch "Ed", it is good entertainment and occasionally there is a meaningful storyline.

BTW, Julie Bowen is in "Happy Gilmore", plays the golf tour publicist who becomes Gilmore's (Adam Sandler) love interest.

(SPOILER: When the series was terminated, Ed and Carol were married first.)

The best show on TV right now!

[Katharine Kennedy · 8 January 2001]

What can I say, "Ed" is probably the best show that has ever been put on television. The story lines are witty, every single character is lovable and the quirky dialogue keeps the viewers glued to the TV from beginning to end. I have never laughed out loud before until this show came along. Thomas Cavanagh, the guy who plays Ed exumes this certain charm that I think every single actor or actress tries to possess, but I think it's a born quality trait. The man is not only hilarious, gorgeous and a great actor, he makes the dialogue come to life. It seems like the part was written for him in mind. The chemistry between Ed and Carol, who is played beautifully and perfectly by Julie Bowen is incredible. The writers do a fine job of teasing us and giving us bits and pieces of their crush on eachother. I can't wait until they get together but the road there is just as much fun to watch!!! Tom Cavanagh is every girls dream and to see a man whose "Almost perfect" every Weds night is a thrill in itself. And like he said in the first episode, he is incredibly adorable. WATCH THE SHOW! I guarantee, you'll love it!

The best show on TV

[manfex · 10 September 2002]

I really don't watch that much television anymore, I've never been hooked to any tv show, except now to Oz and Ed. Whenever I watch Ed, it gives me a special feeling, and I find myself smiling through the show. I don't think there are any weak characters in the show, and I haven't yet seen a bad episode (I've seen season 1, now it's the season 1 reruns). If there was only one show you could watch, better make sure it'd be this one!

Totally totally adorable

[laura2001 · 6 June 2002]

This is one of the best tv shows i have ever had the pleasure of watching. It has a great combination of quirkiness, sentiment, and comedy. All the actors on it have great chemistry, no matter what combination, but in particular Carol and Ed are simply electric in scenes together. They just radiate cuteness. The comedy comes in the form of hijinks between the main character and also an excellent support cast. Phil, Ed's worker at his bowling alley, is perfectly cast in the role of the intellectual wannabe, and Warren as Carol's adoring student is comedy genius whilst still maintaining that aura of small town life that the show is best at. However it is worth watching this show simply for Ed and Mike's $10 'bets' every week. Simply hilarious. This show cannot and should not be missed. For anything.

The only show I'm hooked on

[harasylime · 6 December 2002]

I confess I'm slightly amused to see such rabid reviews by people that mention annoying supporting cast members and tiresome story lines. Sure, it has been three seasons now and people are hoping for things to progress in show, but in the meantime nothing on television is more enjoyable. Not an episode passes that I'm not amazed by at least one aspect of the writing. People who are angered by the way the plot has progressed are the best examples of how wrapped up you can get in the fictional world depicted on Ed. I sometimes forget that these people aren't real. They are insanely quirky, frustrating, funny, and sometimes you just want to slap them and tell them what to do. I never feel that way about characters on other shows, because they don't seem as real. I don't care what choices they make, who they sleep with, etc. On Ed, you can't help but care. Even the ones that drive you crazy make the show that much better. It is unfortunate that this delightful show gets pre-empted for every cheesy special that comes along. If you are lucky enough to catch some reruns, make sure you tune in. This is the best show on television, get in on it before it is too late!

Is this the best show or what!?

[acko1986 · 8 February 2006]

When I heard that the show is going to end some day...Oh, I just can't explain the feeling... Always occupied with a different sorts of things and nothing interesting to think about...the remote save my life...i started to watch Ed! Ed have slowly become a part of my regular life. When I have to make a risky decision I always think "What would Ed Stevens do!? Ed" is the charming account of a man's search for personal redemption by not looking where everyone's head says to go, but where his heart says. Ed Stevens has the day of his life when he is fired from his job as an NYC contract attorney and finds his wife with another man. He uses this as the opportunity to overcome his fears and pursue his dreams.