Silver Spoons: Season 1

In 1982, it was perfectly acceptable to refer to the 12-year-old star of Silver Spoons as Ricky Schroder. It wasn't until his young adult years, when he went on to star in projects like Lonesome Dove, 24, and NYPD Blue, that Schroder would try to distance himself from the sitcom that made him a household name, replacing Ricky with Rick. However, no matter how many plum roles Schroder may have acquired, we will always have fond memories of Ricky - or the Rickster, as he was sometimes called on the show.

The series opens with millionaire man-child Edward Stratton III (Joel Higgins) learning that he is the father of a tween boy. Straight out of military school, young Ricky moves in with his dad, and the two fill needs in each other's lives that they didn't realize needed filling. Schroder had already proven his dramatic acting chops in the 1979 theatrical release The Champ, for which he won a Golden Globe. With Silver Spoons - especially during the first couple of seasons - he didn't have to do much else than look adorable (and look adorable he does). Playing the wise child to Higgins' somewhat immature (and emotionally stunted) dad, he's a natural whether helping his father land a date, dealing with a school bully, or making sure his father and grandfather come to terms with their complicated relationship.

This three-disc box set includes all 22 episodes, which aired on NBC from 1982-1983. The guest list from the first season is impressive, with Jason Bateman (Arrested Development) having a recurring role as his friend/foe Derek, and Sharon Stone, Mr. T, and Joey - sorry, Joseph - Lawrence all making appearances.

Silver Spoons won't go down as a serious contribution to the world of television, but like cotton candy, it's a welcome treat that's fun to indulge in on occasion. Ricky's mother, Evelyn, had placed him in military school after she remarried and thought Ricky would be in the way. Edward Stratton III was the epitome of the words "overgrown child," never having taken responsibility for anything in his lifetime. His lifestyle was that of a ten-year-old, complete with video games and a scale freight train in the living room. Needless to say, he was surprised to discover that his seven-day marriage to Evelyn Bluedhorn had produced a son. After initially sending Ricky back to boarding school, Edward changed his mind and brought his son home.

Throughout the five-year run of Silver Spoons, many changes occurred in the Stratton household. Ricky became a carefree, fun-loving teenager, while Edward became a responsible, loving father and husband. Edward courted and married his personal assistant, Kate Summers, and she provided them both with a loving, stable home.

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