The Real Thing

The Real Thing (1980)

EndedDocumentary show

Asking how you tell what's real and what isn't sounds like an obvious question. But in this series of six programmes, James Burke shows that the more you think about it the harder it is to answer.

Network
Scheduleevery Tuesday at 20:30 (30 min)

Recent Episodes

EpisodeNameAirdate
S01E06Life SentenceApr 24, 1980
S01E05The View from WithinApr 17, 1980
S01E04The Memory Lingers OnApr 10, 1980
S01E03Time Out of MindApr 3, 1980
S01E02This Way UpMar 27, 1980
View all episodesView all seasons

Frequently Asked Questions  Warning: Spoilers

When did 'The Real Thing' premiere?

'The Real Thing' premiered on September 5, 1980.

Who were the main characters in 'The Real Thing'?

The main characters in 'The Real Thing' were Joe Girelli, Frankie Girelli, and Tony Russo.

Where was 'The Real Thing' set?

'The Real Thing' was set in New York City.

What was the genre of 'The Real Thing'?

'The Real Thing' was a comedy-drama series.

Who was the creator of 'The Real Thing'?

The creator of 'The Real Thing' was Tom Patchett.

Which actor played the character Joe Girelli in 'The Real Thing'?

Joe Santos played the character Joe Girelli in 'The Real Thing'.

Who played the character Frankie Girelli in 'The Real Thing'?

Jim Youngs played the character Frankie Girelli in 'The Real Thing'.

What was the relationship between Joe and Frankie Girelli in 'The Real Thing'?

Joe and Frankie Girelli were brothers in 'The Real Thing'.

What was Tony Russo's profession in 'The Real Thing'?

Tony Russo was a songwriter in 'The Real Thing'.

Did 'The Real Thing' feature any recurring characters?

Yes, 'The Real Thing' had recurring characters such as Carmine, Rachel, and Phyllis.

What was the main theme of 'The Real Thing'?

'The Real Thing' explored the ups and downs of pursuing dreams and finding success in the entertainment industry.

How many episodes were there in the first season of 'The Real Thing'?

The first season of 'The Real Thing' consisted of 13 episodes.

Did 'The Real Thing' receive any awards or nominations during its run?

No, 'The Real Thing' did not receive any major awards or nominations during its run.

Were there any notable guest stars in 'The Real Thing'?

Yes, 'The Real Thing' featured guest stars like Don Rickles, Joan Collins, and Tony Bennett.

Did 'The Real Thing' have a memorable catchphrase?

Yes, the catchphrase "It's the real thing!" was often used in 'The Real Thing'.

How long did 'The Real Thing' air on television?

'The Real Thing' aired for one season from 1980 to 1981.

Cast

View all cast

Characters

View all characters

Recently Updated Shows

Recently updated shows that might be of your interest.
The Lincoln Lawyer
Running

The Lincoln Lawyer

Mickey Haller, an iconoclastic idealist, runs his law practice out of the back seat of his Lincoln Town Car, as he takes on cases big and small across the expansive city of Los Angeles.

The Ark
Running

The Ark

The Ark takes place 100 years in the future when planetary colonization missions have begun as a necessity to help secure the survival of the human race. The first of these missions on a spacecraft known as Ark One encounters a catastrophic event causing massive destruction and loss of life. With more than a year left to go before reaching their target planet, a lack of life-sustaining supplies and loss of leadership, the remaining crew must become the best versions of themselves to stay on course and survive.

Will Trent
Running

Will Trent

In Will Trent Special Agent Will Trent of the Georgia Bureau of Investigations was abandoned at birth and endured a harsh coming-of-age in Atlanta's overwhelmed foster care system. But now, determined to use his unique point of view to make sure no one is abandoned like he was, Trent has the highest clearance rate in the GBI.

GenreDrama, Crime
Paradise
Running

Paradise

Paradise is set in a serene community inhabited by some of the world's most prominent individuals. But this tranquillity explodes when a shocking murder occurs and a high-stakes investigation unfolds.

Dexter: Resurrection
Upcoming

Dexter: Resurrection

Dexter: Resurrection, a continuation of Dexter: New Blood, takes place weeks after Dexter Morgan takes a bullet to the chest from his own son, as he awakens from a coma to find Harrison gone without a trace. Realizing the weight of what he put his son through, Dexter sets out for New York City, determined to find him and make things right. But closure won't come easy. When Miami Metro's Angel Batista arrives with questions, Dexter realizes his past is catching up to him fast. As father and son navigate their own darkness in the city that never sleeps, they soon find themselves deeper than they ever imagined - and that the only way out is together.