UltimateTV Covers the “Home Improvement” Series Finale Celebration
Cast, crew and press were all on hand last week as “Home Improvement” taped its final episode at Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, Calif. An after-taping party was delayed for over two hours as writers, producers and talent struggled to reach an agreement on how to conclude the show. Finally, the actors, accompanied by friends and families, walked down a long red carpet to the celebration, looking worn out, and a little sad.
“Home Improvement,” which was inspired by the stand-up work of comedian Tim Allen, premiered in 1991. Allen stars as Tim “The Tool Man” Taylor, the host of a local Detroit cable TV show called “Tool Time.” His wife Jill (Patricia Richardson), and his three sons Brad (Zachery Ty Bryan), Randy (Jonathan Taylor Thomas) and Mark (Taran Noah Smith), try to support their Dad in his fix-it endeavors, but more often than not find themselves running for cover as Taylor’s home improvements go awry.
As he arrived for the after-taping party, Allen said that he is sorry the series is over, but he has a lot to look forward to.
“I think I’m ready to do a movie, actually, which I’m starting on Monday – ‘Galaxy Quest,’ with Sigourney Weaver,” Allen said. “I’m out of work for the weekend. It’s something I’m ready to do and something I think I may really love.”
Richard Karn, Allen’s “Tool Time” partner Al Borland, told reporters he has several projects lined up.
“I have a book coming out for Father’s Day called ‘House Broken,’ and a movie coming out on ABC in the fall – a Disney Sunday Night Movie. I also have a new series in the works.”
Blonde, blue-eyed Bryan, who plays the oldest Taylor son Brad, said, “I’m working on this country western movie now – but I can’t talk about it.”
Tool Time assistant Debbe Dunning seemed less optimistic about the near future. As she twirled around in a gauzy pink dress she wailed, “This is probably going to be my last time [posing for the press]…” Photographers assured her she has nothing to worry about. After all, Dunning’s predecessor on the show, Pamela Anderson, had no problem finding work when she left.
Richardson was one of the last stars to walk the red carpet. She looked as though she had been crying, “I’m kind of a wreck, actually,” she confided. She may have felt like a wreck, but her sleek navy gown was one of the more stunning outfits of the night.
Jo Beth Williams of CBS’s “Payne,” who attended the taping, was in a great mood, and had fun posing for the cameras. The playful actress performed a Fran Drescher imitation for the photographers. UltimateTV asked her about her how she’s enjoying having her own show, and she gushed, “It’s wonderful!”
Pete Bonerez from the classic television show, “The Bob Newhart Show,” also attended the taping and celebration.
The after party featured music and stand up comedy, and an appearance of Tim Allen’s ‘Hot Rods.” Many children attended the event, congregating near the sundae bar. Guests could play pool or sit at one of many candlelit tables.
The season finale airs May 25 at 8 p.m. (ET/PT) on ABC.
‘Home Improvement’ Arrivals Videos
- Video of Tim Allen
- Video of Debra Dunning
- Video of Patricia Richardson
- Video of Richard Karn
- Video of Noah Smith
- Video of Zachary Bryan
Source: Zap2It
Author: Rachel Silverman