1 9 5 6 (USA)
13 x 30 minute episodes
Premiering on CBS on 26 June 1956, this summer show was the story of New York cab driver Joe Spartan (Larry Blyden).
Each episode began and ended with Joe, in his taxi (cab number 124) addressing us in the rearview mirror as if we were sitting in the backseat.
At the beginning of the show he’d set up the episode, and at the end, he’d give a preview of next week’s show.
Joe was the jealous type. He was very much in love with manicurist Mabel Spooner (Nita Talbot) but had cold feet about the responsibilities associated with marriage.
On the other hand, Mabel (who lived in apartment 3H on Bushwick Avenue in Brooklyn) was ready and very eager to tie the knot.
Mabel had a very strong New York accent. She lived with her widowed mother, Adele Spooner (Luella Gear), and her younger brother, Sherman (Michael Mann).
Mabel’s best friend was Dolly Armstrong (Shirl Conway). Joe’s best friend was fellow cabbie Mike (Norman Fell).
Joe and Mike would frequently hang out at the counter of Mac’s Diner and try to figure their way out of various predicaments over coffee. Harry (John Shellie) worked behind the counter.
The final episode aired on 25 September 1956.
Joe Spartan
Larry Blyden
Mabel Spooner
Nita Talbot
Adele Spooner
Luella Gear
Sherman Spooner
Michael Mann
Dolly Armstrong
Shirl Conway
Mike
Norman Fell
Harry
John Shellie
