Gimme a Break!

Gimme a Break! (1981-1987)

EndedScripted showComedy, Family

Nellie Ruth "Nell" Harper agrees to be a housekeeper for the Kanisky household as a favor to her late friend, Margaret Huffman Kanisky, who was the wife of police chief Carl Kanisky. Nell also serves as a parent to the Chief's three daughters, Katie, Julie, and Samantha.

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Recent Episodes

EpisodeNameAirdate
S06E25Mama's DateMay 12, 1987
S06E24Someday, My Prince . . .May 5, 1987
S06E23Save the ChurchApr 28, 1987
S06E22Parents' Week (2)Mar 4, 1987
S06E21Parents' Week (1)Feb 25, 1987
View all episodesView all seasons

Frequently Asked Questions  Warning: Spoilers

Gimme a Break! premiere?

Gimme a Break! premiered on October 29, 1981.

Who created Gimme a Break!?

Gimme a Break! was created by Mort Lachman and Sy Rosen.

What's the premise of the show?

The show follows Nell Harper, a widowed police chief who takes in the three children of her deceased housekeeper.

Who played the role of Nell Harper?

Nell Harper was played by actress Nell Carter.

What was the name of Nell's deceased housekeeper?

Nell's deceased housekeeper's name was Margaret Huffstickler.

How old were Joey, Katie, and Julie when they were taken in by Nell?

Joey was 10 years old, Katie was 8 years old, and Julie was 6 years old when they were taken in by Nell.

What was the name of Nell's superior officer on the police force?

Nell's superior officer on the police force was Chief Carl Kanisky.

What was the initial relationship between Nell and Chief Carl Kanisky?

Nell and Chief Carl Kanisky had a love-hate relationship at first, but eventually became good friends.

What was the most memorable catchphrase of the show?

The most memorable catchphrase of the show was "Gimme a break!"

What was the name of Nell's best friend on the show?

Nell's best friend on the show was Addy Wilson.

Who played the role of Addy Wilson?

Addy Wilson was played by actress Telma Hopkins.

What was the name of the cafe where Nell worked before becoming a police chief?

The name of the cafe where Nell worked before becoming a police chief was the Kanisky's Cafe.

What was the name of the actor who played Joey Donovan?

Joey Donovan was played by actor Joey Lawrence.

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