Emergency! was a big hit for NBC from 1972-77, leading into the network's Saturday evening movie package. But what were network suits thinking when they green-lit Emergency! Plus 4 for their 1973 Saturday morning lineup? From an educational standpoint, they wanted to teach younger viewers that probably couldn't watch the parent series about firefighting and rescue squads in ways that Smokey the Bear couldn't. A noble idea, but the execution was lacking. Independent producer Fred Calvert, who'd also produced a few entries for ABC's Saturday Superstar Movie around the same time, obtained the license from Universal & Mark VII (Jack Webb's production company) to produce Emergency! Plus 4, which showcased firemen John Gage (Randolph Mantooth) and Roy DeSoto (Kevin Tighe), now also mentoring 4 teenagers. Yeah, in a way, it was NBC's answer to ABC's Super Friends, but at half the size (half hour), and, apparently, half the budget.
Here's the show's open & close:
Amazingly, the series lasted just 2 seasons. NBC was desperate for programming to fill their Saturday morning lineup, such that there was a schedule overhaul on a seemingly annual basis. Calvert would ultimately replace the series and make one more attempt at Saturday ratings glory, this time with iconic boxer Muhammad Ali.
Rating: C-.
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