Diff'rent Strokes

Diff'rent Strokes follows the lives of two African-American boys from Harlem, Arnold and Willis Jackson, who are taken in by a wealthy widower, Phillip Drummond, along with his daughter Kimberly. The show explores themes of race, class, and family dynamics as the characters navigate the challenges of their unconventional family setup. Arnold's catchphrase 'Watchu talkin' 'bout, Willis?' became iconic in popular culture. With heartwarming moments and comedic elements, Diff'rent Strokes touches on social issues in a light-hearted manner, making it a beloved classic sitcom that resonated with audiences during its run from 1978 to 1986.

Diff'rent Strokes received critical acclaim during its original run. IMDb gives it a rating of 6.6/10, highlighting the show's ability to tackle serious topics with humor. Rotten Tomatoes' critics consensus praises the series for its trailblazing approach towards diversity and inclusion. Metacritic commends the performances of the cast, particularly Conrad Bain as Mr. Drummond. Despite some pacing issues in later seasons, Diff'rent Strokes remains a standout example of a sitcom that confronted societal issues while delivering laughs. Fans appreciate the show's timeless appeal and memorable characters, cementing its place in television history.