Once and Again
Once and Again is an American family drama television series that aired on ABC from September 21, 1999, to April 15, 2002.[1][2] The series was created by Marshall Herskovitz and Edward Zwick, known for their work on emotionally resonant ensemble dramas.[3] It centers on the developing romance between Lily Manning, a recently separated mother of two daughters, and Rick Sammler, a divorced father of two children, as they navigate the complexities of blending their families amid personal and relational challenges.[4] The show explores themes of divorce, parenting, adolescence, and second chances at love through an innovative narrative style that includes voice-over monologues from multiple characters to reveal inner thoughts and emotions.[2] Starring Sela Ward as Lily and Billy Campbell as Rick, the ensemble cast also features Julia Whelan as Grace Manning, Meredith Deane as Zoe Manning, Shane West as Eli Sammler, and Evan Rachel Wood as Jessie Sammler.[3][5] Over three seasons comprising 63 episodes, Once and Again delves into the characters' evolving relationships, including interactions with ex-spouses like Jake Manning (Jeffrey Nordling) and Karen Sammler (Susanna Thompson), and addresses issues such as teenage rebellion, career pressures, and grief.[2] Critically acclaimed for its realistic portrayal of family dynamics and character-driven storytelling, the series received numerous awards and nominations, highlighting its impact on television drama.[6] Sela Ward won the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series – Drama in 2001, and the show earned five Golden Globe nominations overall, including one win.[4][7] It also garnered Emmy recognition, with Ward winning the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 2000 and receiving a nomination in 2001, along with wins for Outstanding Casting for a Drama Series in 2001 and 2002.[6] Despite its positive reception, Once and Again faced challenges with network scheduling and viewership, leading to its cancellation after the third season.[2]Synopsis
Premise
Once and Again centers on Lily Manning, a separated mother navigating life with her two teenage daughters, Grace and Zoe, and Rick Sammler, a divorced father raising his adolescent son Eli and daughter Jessie. The series explores their chance encounter and developing romance, which unfolds against the backdrop of their respective post-divorce recoveries and the complexities of co-parenting. As they attempt to build a relationship, the narrative delves into the tensions arising from integrating their families, highlighting the everyday struggles of single parents re-entering the dating world.[3][8] Key themes include second chances at love after marital dissolution, the emotional aftermath of divorce, the challenges of raising teenagers, and the intricacies of forming blended families. The show portrays these elements through authentic depictions of relational dynamics, emphasizing personal growth amid societal judgments and familial conflicts. It underscores the resilience required to pursue happiness while prioritizing children's well-being, offering a nuanced look at modern American family life.[9][10] A distinctive narrative feature is the use of voice-over monologues from multiple characters to reveal inner thoughts and emotions on unfolding events, adding layers of emotional depth and psychological insight. This stylistic choice enhances the series' realistic tone, favoring subtle emotional exploration over sensationalized drama, and distinguishes it as a thoughtful family-centric drama spanning three seasons.[11]Plot overview
In the first season, Lily Manning adjusts to life after separating from her husband Jake, managing her career at a bookstore and raising her daughters, Grace and Zoe. She meets Rick Sammler, a divorced architect and father of Eli and Jessie, after Grace injures her ankle during a soccer game at their children's high school, sparking an immediate mutual attraction. As their relationship develops, they encounter significant obstacles, including resistance from their ex-spouses, the emotional strains of blending families, and Grace's impending transition to college, which highlights themes of independence and change within the Manning family.[12] The second season builds on their romance as Lily and Rick finalize their respective divorces, allowing their relationship to progress toward marriage midway through the season. Professional pressures mount for Lily with her publishing aspirations and for Rick amid business challenges at his firm, while the blended family navigates co-parenting dynamics. Teenage issues emerge prominently, particularly Jessie's struggles with anxiety and self-esteem, underscoring the ongoing tensions and growth in their interconnected lives.[13][14] In the third and final season, Lily and Rick adapt to married life and the complexities of a fully merged family, facing everyday adjustments alongside deeper crises. Jessie grapples with her emerging sexuality in a groundbreaking same-sex relationship with her friend Katie, a narrative that provided one of network television's earliest sensitive portrayals of teen lesbian identity and its impact on family. Eli prepares for his bar mitzvah, marking a milestone in his personal development, but escalating conflicts—including financial woes and interpersonal betrayals—culminate in major career decisions that test their marriage, reflecting the series' overarching exploration of blended family evolution, resilience, and individual personal growth.[15][16]Cast and characters
Main cast
Sela Ward portrayed Lily Manning, the series' central figure as a resilient single mother and owner of a children's bookstore who navigates the complexities of her professional life and a burgeoning romance amid personal upheaval.[5] For her nuanced depiction of Lily's emotional depth and vulnerability, Ward earned the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 2000 and the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series – Drama in 2001. Billy Campbell played Rick Sammler, a thoughtful architect and divorced father grappling with the guilt of his marital separation while striving to maintain strong bonds with his children through the challenges of co-parenting.[5][17] Julia Whelan depicted Grace Manning, Lily's eldest daughter and an aspiring writer, whose role highlighted the tensions of adolescence, including academic pressures and evolving family dynamics.[5][18] Evan Rachel Wood delivered a breakout performance as Jessie Sammler, Rick's younger daughter and a sensitive teenager confronting profound identity questions and mental health struggles, notably through storylines involving therapy, eating disorders, and a pioneering same-sex romance.[17][5] Meredith Deane portrayed Zoe Manning, Lily's youngest daughter, who often served as an innocent and perceptive observer to the adults' relational complexities and the family's broader transformations.[5][19] Shane West played Eli Sammler, Rick's teenage son, capturing the character's navigation of adolescent rebellion, school pressures, and the emotional fallout from his parents' divorce.[5][19] The ensemble was consistently billed in the opening credits as series regulars across all three seasons, underscoring their integral roles in driving the show's intimate family narratives.[20]Recurring cast
Jeffrey Nordling portrayed Jake Manning, Lily Manning's ex-husband and the father of Grace and Zoe, appearing in 47 episodes across all three seasons. His character navigated co-parenting challenges and occasional romantic tensions with Lily following their divorce.[3] Susanna Thompson played Karen Sammler, Rick Sammler's ex-wife and the mother of Eli and Jessie, recurring in 50 episodes. Karen's storyline explored professional ambitions as a lawyer alongside custody disputes and evolving family dynamics with Rick.[3] Todd Field appeared as David Cassilli in 28 episodes, primarily during seasons 1 and 2. As Lily's colleague at the ad agency and a brief romantic interest, Cassilli contributed to subplots involving workplace relationships and personal support for Lily amid her life changes.[21] Marin Hinkle recurred as Judy Brooks, Lily's younger sister, in 50 episodes throughout the series. Judy's arcs highlighted sibling bonds, her own romantic entanglements, and emotional support for the Manning family during personal crises.[22] James Karen guest-starred as Ed Lederer, Lily's father, in several episodes, adding depth to family gatherings and intergenerational advice in subplots centered on Lily's parental relationships.[1] Ever Carradine played Tiffany Porter, a friend and occasional confidante in the Manning circle, appearing in 19 episodes from season 1 through season 3. Her role influenced social and relational subplots among the younger characters.[20] Kelly Coffield portrayed Naomi, Rick's business associate at the bike shop, in 9 episodes across seasons 1 and 2. Naomi's presence underscored professional challenges and friendships in Rick's daily life.[8] Frances Conroy appeared as Barbara Elmer in a multi-episode arc in season 2, contributing to themes of community and unexpected alliances through her character's interactions with the Sammler family.[21]Production
Development
Once and Again was created by Marshall Herskovitz and Edward Zwick, the longtime collaborators responsible for the emotionally resonant family dramas thirtysomething (1987–1991) and My So-Called Life (1994–1995), who sought to deliver authentic depictions of contemporary family life through intimate character studies.[23] The series was developed under their Bedford Falls Productions banner and greenlit by ABC for the 1999–2000 television season, debuting as a fall premiere on September 21, 1999, with an initial order leading to a full 22-episode first season.[1] ABC positioned the show in the Tuesday 10 p.m. ET slot, aiming to attract adult viewers with its focus on mature themes amid a landscape dominated by youth-oriented programming.[23] The creators drew thematic inspiration from the rising prevalence of divorce and the challenges of forming blended families in late-1990s America, viewing these as central to modern relational dynamics.[24] Herskovitz expressed a particular interest in exploring marriage and stepfamily integration, stating, "I would love nothing more than to explore marriage and blended families."[24] This vision shaped the narrative around a divorcing mother and a divorced father navigating romance and co-parenting, emphasizing emotional realism over sensationalism. Casting emphasized performers capable of conveying nuanced vulnerability, with Sela Ward selected for the lead role of Lily Manning following her Emmy-winning portrayal of Teddy Reed on Sisters (1991–1996), bringing established depth to the character's marital dissolution and personal reinvention.[25] Ward's chemistry with Billy Campbell, cast as Rick Sammler, was a key factor in her hiring, as the duo's natural rapport aligned with the show's relational core.[25] For the younger roles, 12-year-old Evan Rachel Wood was chosen as Jessie Sammler after a casting process that highlighted her precocious ability to handle complex emotional arcs, propelling her to breakout status as the introspective teen grappling with her father's new relationship.[26]Filming and style
The principal filming for Once and Again took place in Culver City, California, with additional shoots on location throughout the Los Angeles area to capture a sense of everyday realism in the characters' domestic and professional lives.[11][27] This approach emphasized practical locations over studio sets, contributing to the series' grounded portrayal of family dynamics and personal relationships.[11] The show's distinctive visual style innovated television drama by interweaving full-color narrative scenes with black-and-white confessional interviews, where characters addressed the camera directly to reveal inner thoughts and emotions.[11] These one-on-one segments, often serving as voiceover narrations, provided intimate psychological insight and advanced the plot without traditional exposition, enhancing the series' emotional depth and realism.[11][28] Directorial duties were primarily handled by creators Edward Zwick and Marshall Herskovitz, who each directed multiple episodes to maintain a consistent intimate tone, with contributions from guest directors such as Claudia Weill on five installments.[29][30] In post-production, the original score composed by W.G. Snuffy Walden, often in collaboration with Joey Newman, underscored the show's subtle, introspective mood through acoustic guitar and electronic elements that mirrored the characters' vulnerabilities.[31][11]Episodes
Season 1 (1999–2000)
The first season of Once and Again consists of 22 episodes, broadcast weekly on ABC from September 21, 1999, to April 24, 2000, establishing the series' focus on blended family dynamics through the evolving romance between Lily Manning and Rick Sammler.[1] The pilot episode was directed by co-creator Edward Zwick and written by Zwick and Marshall Herskovitz, setting the narrative tone with innovative black-and-white confessional segments interspersed throughout the episodes.[32] Production for the season took place primarily in Los Angeles, California, utilizing sound stages at the Century City studios.| No. overall | No. in season | Title | Directed by | Written by | Original air date | Plot summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | Boy Meets Girl | Edward Zwick | Marshall Herskovitz & Edward Zwick | September 21, 1999 | Single parents Lily Manning and Rick Sammler meet at their children's school during a soccer game and feel an immediate attraction, but family issues arise as Rick's son Eli struggles academically and Lily's daughter Grace feels unpopular; they are embarrassed when her children catch them on the couch.[32][33] |
| 2 | 2 | Let's Spend the Night Together | Marshall Herskovitz | Marshall Herskovitz & Edward Zwick | September 28, 1999 | Rick encounters an ex-girlfriend on a date with Lily, causing embarrassment, while a school rumor swirls about Grace and Eli; despite advising Eli to delay sex, Rick and Lily spend their first night together, fighting past heartaches.[32][33] |
| 3 | 3 | The Scarlet Letter Jacket | Dan Lerner | Marshall Herskovitz | October 5, 1999 | At a chaotic school carnival, Lily unknowingly works alongside Rick's ex-wife Karen, who learns of their romance; Grace develops a crush on Eli but is upset by a peer's cruel remark about her appearance.[32][33] |
| 4 | 4 | Liars and Other Strangers | Ron Lagomarsino | Winnie Holzman | October 12, 1999 | Rick and Lily seek privacy by making love in Judy's apartment, where she meets and dislikes Rick; Eli conceals his father's new romance from Karen.[32][33] |
| 5 | 5 | There Be Dragons | Ron Lieberman | Liberty Godshall | October 19, 1999 | During a father-daughter outing, Jesse experiences her first period, signaling changes in her bond with Rick; Jake proposes reconciliation to Lily over dinner, but she declines.[32][33] |
| 6 | 6 | A Dream Deferred | Scott Winant | Jan Oxenberg | October 26, 1999 | Judy envisions a coffee bar for the bookstore, but Rick intervenes with renovations, sidelining her crush on the carpenter; financial strains force Lily toward a formal separation from Jake.[32][33] |
| 7 | 7 | The Ex-Files | Robert Black | Winnie Holzman | November 2, 1999 | The Sammlers attend Eli's basketball tournament, where he injures his ankle after a victory; Grace and Zoe encounter Rick's young girlfriend, and Karen considers dating again after years alone.[32][33] |
| 8 | 8 | The Past is Prologue | Patrick Norris | Marshall Herskovitz & Edward Zwick | November 9, 1999 | As Rick immerses in work, Lily recalls Jake's neglect, and Rick reflects on how ambition doomed his prior marriage; Eli confesses his reading difficulties after failing a test.[32][33] |
| 9 | 9 | Outside Hearts | Todd Field | Alexa Junge | November 16, 1999 | While Lily attends a business convention, Judy permits Grace to join a party that spirals out of control; Eli violates his no-drinking pledge and calls Rick for help.[32][33] |
| 10 | 10 | Thanksgiving | Claudia Well | Donald Margulies | November 23, 1999 | Lily bars Jake from Thanksgiving, but her parents invite him, shocking her mother when Lily slips out to see Rick; her father urges preserving the marriage despite past temptations.[32][33] |
| 11 | 11 | Where There's Smoke | Edward Zwick | Michael Weller | December 7, 1999 | An awkward dinner introduces Rick to Grace and Zoe; Karen grapples with Eli's maturity as he moves to the basement; stunned by Jake's business woes, Lily has a one-night stand with him.[32][33] |
| 12 | 12 | The Gingerbread House | Dan Lerner | Pamela Gray | December 21, 1999 | During holiday setup, Lily demands divorce from Jake and confesses her infidelity to Rick, who struggles to forgive, threatening their bond.[32][33] |
| 13 | 13 | Mediation | Peter Horton | Pamela Gray | January 24, 2000 | Lily hopes for Rick's forgiveness amid divorce mediation with Jake; Rick contends with a demanding client, Miles Drentell, as Grace tutors Eli post-breakup.[32][33] |
| 14 | 14 | Sneaky Feelings | Claudia Well | Sue Paige & Daniel Paige | January 31, 2000 | Karen feels drawn to a younger colleague despite her boyfriend's pursuit; Eli contemplates cheating on Jennifer.[32][33] |
| 15 | 15 | The Mystery Dance | Dan Lerner | Sue Paige & Daniel Paige | February 7, 2000 | Lily and Rick start repairing their relationship; Judy encounters Samuel, a promising romantic prospect.[32][33] |
| 16 | 16 | Daddy's Girl | Barnet Kellman | Liberty Godshall | February 14, 2000 | Exasperated by Jake's unreliability, Lily retains a divorce lawyer; Grace bonds with a boy sharing her worldview.[32][33] |
| 17 | 17 | Unfinished Business | Edward Zwick | Marshall Herskovitz & Edward Zwick | March 6, 2000 | The Manning family navigates a life-altering accident involving a close relative.[32][33] |
| 18 | 18 | Strangers and Brothers | Marshall Herskovitz | Richard Kramer | March 13, 2000 | Aaron provides solace to the Mannings during crisis; Lily advances in her divorce case.[32][33] |
| 19 | 19 | Cat-in-the-Hat | Claudia Weill | Michael Weller | April 3, 2000 | Karen's affair with younger Leo intensifies, challenging her boundaries; Eli manipulates his parents over discipline after sneaking into a bar for his friends' band.[32][33] |
| 20 | 20 | My Brilliant Career | Dan Lerner | Jan Oxenberg | April 10, 2000 | Lily's new position offers perspective on her life choices; Grace learns of Jake's pre-separation affair with Tiffany, straining their father-daughter tie.[32][33] |
| 21 | 21 | Letting Go | Peter Horton | Alexa Junge | April 17, 2000 | Judy's liaison with Samuel is exposed, leading her to retreat from vulnerability; Lily appreciates Rick's value during his hospitalization, as Grace confronts Jake's betrayals.[32][33] |
| 22 | 22 | A Door, About to Open | Dan Lerner | Winnie Holzman | April 24, 2000 | Lily organizes a family dinner to unite the children, but Eli uncovers Cassidy's cheating, and professional demands disrupt plans, hinting at future possibilities for Lily and Rick.[32][33] |
Season 2 (2000–2001)
The second season of Once and Again builds upon the romantic and familial foundations established in the first season by delving deeper into the challenges of merging the Sammler and Manning households, while intensifying explorations of adolescent struggles and adult relational tensions.[32] Airing over 22 episodes from October 24, 2000, to May 2, 2001, on ABC, the season emphasized character-driven narratives, allowing for expanded development of psychological and emotional arcs, particularly around themes of eating disorders, professional ethics, and blended family dynamics, under the continued executive production of creators Marshall Herskovitz and Edward Zwick.[32] Production for the season incorporated more intricate storytelling techniques, such as interwoven subplots highlighting teen crises and marital strains, to foster greater depth in ensemble performances.[32] The season's episodes are detailed in the following table:| No. overall | No. in season | Title | Directed by | Written by | Original air date | Plot summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23 | 1 | Wake Up, Little Susie | Marshall Herskovitz | Marshall Herskovitz & Edward Zwick | October 24, 2000 | Lily and Rick struggle to blend their families amid ongoing adjustments, while Jesse faces difficulties transitioning to high school life.[32][33] |
| 24 | 2 | BookLovers | Dan Lerner | Winnie Holzman | October 31, 2000 | Judy transforms the bookstore into a singles book club, drawing in unexpected participants like Jake and Christie's boss, complicating her personal attractions.[32][33] |
| 25 | 3 | I Can't Stand Up for Falling Down | Peter Horton | Sue Paige & Daniel Paige | November 14, 2000 | Eli grapples with parental expectations for college while aspiring to pursue his passion for music in a band.[32][33] |
| 26 | 4 | Feast or Famine | Claudia Weill | Marshall Herskovitz & Edward Zwick | November 21, 2000 | The families convene for Thanksgiving dinner, where Rick's mother raises concerns about the well-being of his children in the evolving household.[32][33] |
| 27 | 5 | Ozymandias 2.0 | Michael Engler | Joseph Dougherty | November 28, 2000 | Rick and Lily attend a professional dinner with architect Miles and clients, resulting in an uncomfortable evening due to Lily's unexpected contributions.[32][33] |
| 28 | 6 | Food For Thought | Edward Zwick | Marshall Herskovitz & Edward Zwick | December 5, 2000 | Jesse consults a psychiatrist regarding her eating issues, as Karen's law firm takes on a case opposing Rick's architectural project.[32][33] |
| 29 | 7 | Learner's Permit | Arvin Brown | Liberty Godshall | December 19, 2000 | Grace obtains her learner's permit and develops a crush on Pace, leading to a disastrous date with his friend Spencer to provoke jealousy; meanwhile, Tiffany ends her relationship with Jake.[32][33] |
| 30 | 8 | Life Out of Balance | James Eckhouse | Lynn Siefert | January 10, 2001 | Lily suspects she may be pregnant, prompting a disappointing response from Rick; Grace witnesses an incident involving Carla and Eli that shifts her perspective on Carla.[32][33] |
| 31 | 9 | Scribbling Rivalry | Dan Lerner | Jan Oxenberg | January 17, 2001 | Corporate layoffs at Lily's workplace create upheaval, with a consultant's decisions heightening tensions; Zoe feels neglected by Grace, leading to reconciliation efforts.[32][33] |
| 32 | 10 | Love's Laborer's Lost | Michael Engler | Emily Whitesell | January 24, 2001 | Judy navigates romantic interests between two suitors; Eli becomes frustrated with Carla's penchant for risky behavior.[32][33] |
| 33 | 11 | Thieves Like Us | Claudia Weill | Winnie Holzman | January 31, 2001 | Jesse's art supplies go missing, sparking suspicions among friends; Rick uncovers troubling information related to his collaboration with Miles.[32][33] |
| 34 | 12 | Suspicion | James Eckhouse | Liberty Godshall | February 7, 2001 | Jesse resists attending a school dance solo, straining her relationship with Karen; an unexpected kiss from Graham catches Lily off guard.[32][33] |
| 35 | 13 | Edifice Wrecked | Dan Lerner | Winnie Holzman | February 14, 2001 | Rick encounters legal obstacles from an injunction on his project; Grace joins a protest against it, and Rick proposes marriage to Lily amid the chaos.[32][33] |
| 36 | 14 | The Other End of the Telescope | Robert Berlinger | Sue Paige & Daniel Paige | March 7, 2001 | A tense hostage situation erupts at Jake's restaurant, witnessed by the family through news coverage; Lily accepts Rick's proposal.[32][33] |
| 37 | 15 | Standing Room Only | Arlene Sanford | Jan Oxenberg | March 14, 2001 | Rick and Lily announce their engagement, but the children clash over future living arrangements and room assignments in the merged home.[32][33] |
| 38 | 16 | Aaron's Getting Better | Susan Kramer | Richard Kramer | March 21, 2001 | Rick's brother Aaron returns showing signs of recovery but experiences a relapse during a family dinner; Grace and Spencer reflect on their restaurant ordeal.[32][33] |
| 39 | 17 | Forgive Us Our Trespasses | Dan Lerner | Lynn Siefert & Winnie Holzman | March 28, 2001 | Judy's interactions with handyman Will create awkwardness; Lily addresses Graham's persistent advances, while Jake intervenes in a perceived threat to Judy.[32][33] |
| 40 | 18 | Best of Enemies | Barnet Kellman | Emily Whitesell | April 4, 2001 | Preparations for Lily and Rick's wedding commence amid hesitations; Jesse collapses from an undisclosed issue, prompting Judy to share her history of bulimia.[32][33] |
| 41 | 19 | Armageddon (1) | Marshall Herskovitz | Marshall Herskovitz & Edward Zwick | April 11, 2001 | A grand jury investigation into the Atlantor project emerges, leading to Rick's subpoena and intense questioning.[32][33] |
| 42 | 20 | Won't Someone Please Help George Bailey Tonight (2) | Dan Lerner | Liberty Godshall et al. | April 18, 2001 | Miles faces indictment as the project halts; Rick is publicly challenged on a talk show and confronts the ailing Miles, with Lily reaffirming her support.[32][33] |
| 43 | 21 | Moving On | Ken Collins | Sue Paige & Daniel Paige | April 25, 2001 | Rick and his children relocate to Lily's home; Carla prepares to depart for Portland, tempting Eli to join her, but Rick intervenes at the last moment.[32][33] |
| 44 | 22 | The Second Time Around | Dan Lerner | Winnie Holzman | May 2, 2001 | Wedding logistics unravel due to disputes, causing Lily and Rick to briefly postpone, but visions of Lily's father inspire reconciliation, culminating in the ceremony officiated by Will.[32][33] |
Season 3 (2001–2002)
The third and final season of Once and Again consisted of 19 episodes that aired from September 28, 2001, to April 15, 2002, on ABC, resolving key family dynamics and character arcs such as Jessie's emerging romance, Eli's personal struggles, and the blended Sammler-Manning household's tensions. The season emphasized themes of separation, growth, and resilience amid external pressures, culminating in major life decisions for Lily and Rick. Due to disruptions from the September 11, 2001, attacks, production and scheduling were affected, resulting in a hiatus after episode 12, with the final seven episodes airing consecutively in March and April 2002.| No. overall | No. in season | Title | Director | Writer(s) | Original air date | Plot summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 45 | 1 | Busted | Dan Lerner | Marshall Herskovitz & Edward Zwick | September 28, 2001 | The newly merged family navigates living arrangements and conflicts, while Eli's arrest for marijuana possession ignites disputes between Karen, who insists on a traditional job, and Lily, who encourages his music passion; Eli ultimately lands work at a recording studio.[32][33] |
| 46 | 2 | The Awful Truth | Michael Engler | Susan Nanus | October 5, 2001 | Grace grapples with self-doubt under a demanding new teacher's scrutiny, while Lily weighs job offers at a radio station versus Judy's bookstore, straining their sisterly relationship and highlighting family priorities.[32][33] |
| 47 | 3 | Kind of Blue | Peter Horton | Richard Kramer | October 12, 2001 | Rick's career revives with a renovation project from old acquaintance Sam Blue, as Judy and Sam rekindle flirtations but she remains wary of recommitting after past hurts.[34][32][33] |
| 48 | 4 | Acting Out | Dan Lerner | David Schulner | October 19, 2001 | Grace and Jessie vie intensely for the lead role in a school play, exacerbating sibling rivalry, while Judy and Sam's intimate night leaves her seeking clearer commitment from him.[32][33] |
| 49 | 5 | Destiny Turns on the Radio | Lesli Linka Glatter | Maggie Friedman | November 2, 2001 | Lily's role at the radio station opens doors to a high-profile hosting gig, but family tensions rise when a boy invites Jessie on a date, prompting protective reactions from Lily and Grace.[32][33] |
| 50 | 6 | Jake and the Women | Arlene Sanford | Janet Leahy | November 9, 2001 | Lily hosts a baby shower for Tiffany, forcing Jake to confront his impending fatherhood and relationships with the women in his life, including Zoe's insecurities about the new baby.[32][33] |
| 51 | 7 | Chaos Theory | Dan Lerner | David Zwick | November 23, 2001 | Ambitious Thanksgiving plans unravel into comedic and emotional chaos for the blended family, exposing underlying resentments and the challenges of unified celebrations.[32][33] |
| 52 | 8 | The Sex Show | Michael Engler | Sue Paige | November 28, 2001 | Lily and Rick confront routine in their marriage through awkward attempts to reignite passion, while Grace's discovery of an adult magazine sparks parental concerns about her maturity.[32][33] |
| 53 | 9 | Tough Love | Lesli Linka Glatter | Emily Whitesell | December 5, 2001 | Eli faces unemployment and Grace endures harsh feedback on her acting, both gaining resilience and self-assurance through supportive yet firm family guidance.[32][33] |
| 54 | 10 | Pictures | Dan Lerner | Daniel E. Feuerman | December 12, 2001 | Tiffany delivers her baby prematurely on Christmas Eve, drawing the families together in joy and support, though Judy navigates awkwardness in bonding with Sam's young son.[32][33] |
| 55 | 11 | Taking Sides | Arlene Sanford | Sam Binkley | January 4, 2002 | Through flashbacks to pivotal past moments, Sam confesses deeper feelings for Judy beyond friendship, while Karen grapples with loneliness as Jessie prefers staying with Lily.[32][33] |
| 56 | 12 | Gardenia | Robert M. Young | David Schulner | January 11, 2002 | A severe car accident involving Karen shatters her emotional numbness, compelling Eli and Jessie to recognize their parents' vulnerabilities and rally around her recovery.[32][33] |
| 57 | 13 | Falling in Place | Dan Lerner | Susan Nanus | March 4, 2002 | Jessie's overwhelming guilt over Karen's accident intensifies family strains, as Eli minimizes the gravity of her injuries, forcing confrontations about emotional support.[32][33] |
| 58 | 14 | The Gay-Straight Alliance | Lesli Linka Glatter | Richard Kramer | March 11, 2002 | Grace joins the school's Gay-Straight Alliance to stay near her admired drama teacher, raising Lily's concerns about her daughter's sexuality; meanwhile, Jessie confronts painful secrets from friend Katie's past.[32][33] |
| 59 | 15 | One (Step) Parent Backward | Arlene Sanford | Maggie Friedman | March 18, 2002 | Sam urges his son to embrace Judy as a potential stepmother for a chance at family life, while Jake acknowledges his genuine love for Tiffany and their newborn daughter.[32][33] |
| 60 | 16 | Aaron's List of Dreams | Dan Lerner | Janet Leahy | March 25, 2002 | Lily wrestles with distress and protectiveness when her brother Aaron announces plans to cohabitate with a woman facing intellectual disabilities, challenging her views on independence.[32][33] |
| 61 | 17 | Experience Is the Teacher | Michael Engler | Sue Paige | April 1, 2002 | Grace's budding romance with her drama teacher endangers his professional standing, alarming Lily and Jake who intervene to prevent further complications.[32][33] |
| 62 | 18 | Losing You | Dan Lerner | Emily Whitesell | April 8, 2002 | Early indicators of Alzheimer's in Lily's mother complicate family interactions and force Lily to balance her career ambitions with caregiving responsibilities.[32][33] |
| 63 | 19 | Chance of a Lifetime | Robert M. Young | Marshall Herskovitz & Edward Zwick | April 15, 2002 | Rick weighs a lucrative job offer in Australia against family stability, as Lily receives an opportunity to nationally syndicate her radio show, culminating in a pivotal decision for their future.[32][33] |
Reception
Viewership
Once and Again debuted on ABC in the fall of 1999 to strong initial viewership, averaging 10.9 million viewers per episode during its first season and ranking #51 among primetime programs in households.[35][36][37] The series particularly resonated with adults aged 18-49, earning high marks in that key demographic and benefiting from its placement following the popular NYPD Blue.[36][35] In its second season, the show's audience dipped slightly to an average of 8.5 million viewers, reflecting typical sophomore season fluctuations amid stable scheduling.[35] The series maintained a dedicated following, though it faced increasing competition in the drama landscape.[17] The third season saw a more pronounced decline, averaging 6.7 million viewers and ranking #103 in households, influenced by multiple time slot shifts and the broader disruptions to television programming following the September 11, 2001, attacks, which led to hiatuses and altered audience habits across networks. Despite the drop, the show's performance remained respectable for ABC's drama slate during a challenging period.[17][38]| Season | Average Viewers (millions) | Household Rank |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (1999–2000) | 10.9 | 51 |
| 2 (2000–2001) | 8.5 | - |
| 3 (2001–2002) | 6.7 | 103 |
Critical response
Upon its debut in 1999, Once and Again received universal acclaim from critics, earning a Metacritic score of 92 out of 100 based on four reviews.[39] Entertainment Weekly's Ken Tucker praised it as a "subtle family drama" that achieved "greater heights of emotional richness," highlighting its quiet, realistic portrayal of post-divorce life and custody struggles.[40] Variety described the series as "one of the best shows of the new fall season," commending its focus on adult characters navigating divorce, separation, and dating after 40 as a refreshing counterpoint to youth-dominated television.[23] Critics particularly lauded the show's handling of sensitive topics, including divorce and adolescent sexuality, which added layers of realism to the blended family dynamics. The New York Times noted that the presence of children grounded the narrative in authentic parenting challenges and explorations of teen experiences, making it "sharply written" and one of the season's most accomplished series.[41] This approach was seen as innovative for network television, blending emotional depth with relatable interpersonal conflicts without resorting to melodrama. Despite the praise, some reviewers pointed to occasional flaws, such as patches of sentimentality that risked becoming "too cute or precious," particularly in character mannerisms and visual techniques like black-and-white thought sequences.[41] The deliberate, introspective pacing was occasionally critiqued for its subtlety, though it was more often celebrated for fostering emotional authenticity. In retrospect, Once and Again has been viewed as a critically acclaimed yet underrated gem of 2000s television, praised for its realistic exploration of relationships despite struggling with viewership.[35] Later analyses have highlighted its enduring appeal, with Variety in 2020 questioning its absence from streaming platforms as a missed opportunity to revisit a thoughtfully crafted drama.[17]Accolades
Once and Again earned widespread recognition for its performances and production quality, accumulating 12 wins and 49 nominations across major industry awards.[6] The series particularly excelled in honoring its lead actress Sela Ward, who received top prizes from both the Primetime Emmy Awards and the Golden Globe Awards for her portrayal of Lily Manning.[42][43] Sela Ward's performance garnered the 2000 Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series, marking her second Emmy win overall. She also won the 2001 Golden Globe Award for Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series - Drama, while receiving nominations in the same category in 2000 and 2002.[43] Billy Campbell earned a 2000 Golden Globe nomination for Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series - Drama for his role as Rick Sammler.[44] The series itself was nominated for Best Television Series - Drama at the 2000 Golden Globes.[4] The production team received nominations for Outstanding Casting for a Drama Series at the Primetime Emmys in both 2001 and 2002, highlighting the strength of its ensemble.[42] In writing accolades, creators Marshall Herskovitz and Edward Zwick won the 2001 Humanitas Prize in the 60-Minute Category for the episode "Food for Thought," which explored themes of family and personal growth.[45] Young performers, including Evan Rachel Wood, were honored with the 2001 Young Artist Award for Best Ensemble in a TV Series (Drama or Comedy), shared with Julia Whelan and Meredith Deane.[6] The following table summarizes key awards and nominations received by Once and Again:| Award Body | Year | Category | Nominee(s) | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primetime Emmy Awards | 2000 | Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series | Sela Ward | Win |
| Primetime Emmy Awards | 2001 | Outstanding Casting for a Drama Series | Amy Lippens, Lizzie Scheck | Nomination |
| Primetime Emmy Awards | 2002 | Outstanding Casting for a Drama Series | Amy Lippens | Nomination |
| Golden Globe Awards | 2000 | Best Television Series - Drama | Once and Again | Nomination |
| Golden Globe Awards | 2000 | Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series - Drama | Billy Campbell | Nomination |
| Golden Globe Awards | 2001 | Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series - Drama | Sela Ward | Win |
| Golden Globe Awards | 2002 | Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series - Drama | Sela Ward | Nomination |
| Humanitas Prize | 2001 | 60 Minute Category | Marshall Herskovitz, Edward Zwick ("Food for Thought") | Win |
| Young Artist Awards | 2001 | Best Ensemble in a TV Series (Drama or Comedy) | Evan Rachel Wood, Julia Whelan, Meredith Deane | Win |