The Bob Newhart Show: The Complete First Season (1972) On DVD

The Doctor Is In!

In this hilarious sitcom from the '70s, Bob Newhart stars as Dr. Robert Hartley, a successful Chicago psychologist specializing in group therapy sessions. Bob's patience is often tested by his patients - including a paranoid grouch with a persecution complex, a hen-pecked husband, and an emotional eater - all trying to "find themselves." Even at home with his wife Emily, Bob is surrounded by an assortment of nutty and neurotic neighbors. But if laughter is the best therapy, you can be sure the good doctor and those who love him make a little progress every day!

A successful psychologist in 1970s Chicago, Bob Hartley (Bob Newhart) was also the straight man for the cast of wacky characters who surrounded him in this classic sitcom. Providing guidance and a soundboard to a host of eccentric patients, Bob lived with his schoolteacher wife, the elegant Emily. His next door neighbor, Howard Borden, was a childlike, divorced airplane pilot who spent much of his time dropping in at the Hartley residence. Bob's secretary Carol was a somewhat loopy, though surprisingly insightful, wisecracker, and also worked for Bob's best friend, orthodontist Jerry Robinson, who worked down the hall. In the show's first season, Emily attempts to get over her fear of flying, the Hartleys deal with the questions of children and home-ownership, Carol considers moving in with her new boyfriend, and Jerry tries to go on a date with Howard's 22-year-old sister. Other episodes include "Tennis, Emily'" "I Want to Be Alone," "The Two Loves of Dr. Hartley," and "Bum Voyage."