The Hogan Family, also known as Valerie's Family: The Hogans or simply Valerie, is an American television sitcom that aired from 1986 to 1991. The show revolves around the Hogan family, a middle-class suburban family living in Oak Park, Illinois. The series initially started as Valerie, centered around the character Valerie Hogan, a warm and nurturing mother and wife, portrayed by Valerie Harper.
However, due to a contractual dispute between Valerie Harper and the production company, Harper was fired after the second season. The show was subsequently renamed and focused more on the remaining family members, adapting to life without their matriarch. The Hogan family includes mellow and likable father, Michael Hogan, portrayed by Joshua Bilingsley in the first season and then by Sandy Duncan thereafter. The three Hogan boys, David, played by Jason Bateman, Willie, portrayed by Danny Ponce, and Mark, portrayed by Jeremy Licht, complete the family.
The Hogan Family explores various sitcom conventions, offering a blend of comedy and family drama. It tackles everyday challenges and relatable situations, highlighting the dynamics of a nuclear family. The show garnered a devout fan base and became a staple of 1980s television.
Despite the changes in casting and title, The Hogan Family still retained its original focus on family values, love, and togetherness. It provided audiences with an engaging and heartwarming depiction of a suburban American family facing life's ups and downs.
