Rich Man, Poor Man

Synopsis

Rich Man, Poor Man is a compelling 1976 television miniseries based on Irwin Shaw's novel, featuring Peter Strauss in a leading role. Set against the backdrop of mid-20th century America, the series chronicles the intertwined lives of two brothers, Rudy and Tom Jordache, whose paths diverge dramatically after their family's turbulent breakup. As Rudy pursues wealth and status, navigating the corporate and social elite, Tom struggles with his personal demons and aspirations, embodying resilience amidst hardship. This character-driven saga explores themes of ambition, family loyalty, love, and betrayal, painting an intricate portrait of social mobility and American life during a transformative era. With rich storytelling and nuanced performances, Rich Man, Poor Man remains an enduring classic of television drama.

Cast

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  Peter Strauss

  Rudy Jordache

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  Nick Nolte

  Tom Jordache

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  Susan Blakely

  Julie Prescott

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  Ed Asner

  Axel Jordache

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  Dorothy McGuire

  Mary Jordache

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  Bill Bixby

  Willie Abbott

Reviews

Rich Man, Poor Man has been widely regarded as a landmark miniseries that set new standards for television drama in the 1970s. On IMDb, it enjoys a strong rating of 8.2/10, reflecting consistent viewer appreciation for its in-depth character development and engaging narrative. Critics praise the series for its faithful adaptation of Shaw's novel and Peter Strauss's compelling portrayal of Rudy Jordache. Variety noted that the miniseries "delivers a gripping saga of ambition and family fractures with considerable emotional depth." However, some critiques from the New York Times pointed out that the pacing occasionally lags, especially in later episodes, though they acknowledged the show's ambitious scope and production values. Metacritic does not have an official score for the show due to its age, but the legacy of Rich Man, Poor Man is preserved through favorable retrospectives highlighting its influence on future TV miniseries. Fans and critics alike appreciate its complex characters and the way it tackles social issues such as class disparity and personal redemption, making it a memorable piece of television history.