One of the most famous phantom series in TV history. Despite critical acclaim, NBC cancelled it before its scheduled 30 September 1976 debut because Michael was an openly gay character. He would've been the first on an American TV series.
Only five episodes went through post-production. Two others were filmed, but the cancellation order came before they footage could be assembled. The five finished episodes were shown on Australian TV over five consecutive weeknights.
The show was filmed before a live studio audience. However, Brenner's contract stipulated that the laugh track could not be electronically "sweetened."