Mr. Smith

Mr. Smith is an American sitcom that aired on NBC from September 23 through December 16, 1983. The series was based around the premise of a talking orangutan. Mr. Smith was canceled after thirteen episodes were aired. The orangutan who played Mr. Smith had previously been featured in the Clint Eastwood movies Any Which Way You Can and Every Which Way But Loose.

Directed by Ed. Weinberger, Stan Daniels, David Lloyd, Mr. Smith leans on a strong ensemble — Tim Dunigan, Leonard Frey, Stuart Margolin — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The series landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about comedy titles of 1983.