ABSTRACT
St. Elsewhere was one of the most acclaimed of the upscale serial dramas to appear in the 1980s. Along with shows such as Hill Street Blues, L.A. Law, and thirtysomething, St. Elsewhere was a result of the demographically conscious programming strategies that had gripped the networks during the years when cable TV was experiencing spectacular growth. Often earning comparatively low ratings, these shows were kept on the air because they delivered highly desirable audiences consisting of young, affluent viewers whom advertisers were anxious to reach. Despite its never earning a seasonal ranking above 49th place (out of about 100 shows), St. Elsewhere aired for six full seasons on the National Broadcasting Company (NBC) from 1982 to 1988. The series was nominated for 63 Emmy Awards and won 13.
