With jokes about the Khmer Rouge and the Rosenbergs, this was a show that appealed most to well-educated and well-cultured audiences. The writing was at "Dennis Miller" level and just wasn't as accessible to mass audiences. Like USA's "Duckman," it appealed mostly to niche markets that could keep up with the constant barrage (and riotous skewering) of pop culture. I really can't blame NBC for cancelling it. It just didn't have the broad appeal necessary.
The real tragedy (besides Phil Hartman being struck down in his prime) is that we will likely never have a show as this subversively funny again. Economics dictate "Spider Man 12" is a safer bet than intelligent, witty comedies such as this. RIP, Newsradio. Thank you for what you gave us.
