The Unforgettable ‘Turkeys Away’ Episode: How WKRP in Cincinnati Became a Holiday TV Classic

In the annals of television history, few episodes have left as indelible a mark as “Turkeys Away” from the classic sitcom WKRP in Cincinnati. This Thanksgiving-themed installment, which aired during the show’s first season on October 30, 1978, has transcended its humble beginnings to become a beloved holiday tradition and a cultural phenomenon.

The Inspiration Behind “Turkeys Away”

The genesis of “Turkeys Away” can be traced back to a real-life anecdote shared by Atlanta radio executive Jerry Blum with WKRP creator Hugh Wilson. According to Blum, another radio station had once organized a publicity stunt involving the release of live turkeys from either a helicopter or a truck. However, the stunt went horribly awry, resulting in a gruesome turkey massacre that horrified the assembled crowd.

Intrigued by this bizarre tale, Wilson saw the potential for a hilarious and memorable episode of WKRP in Cincinnati. He reimagined the incident as a misguided publicity stunt orchestrated by the station’s well-meaning but clueless manager, Arthur Carlson (Gordon Jump), in which live turkeys were dropped from a helicopter onto the streets below.

The Unforgettable Turkey Drop Sequence

The centerpiece of “Turkeys Away” is undoubtedly the infamous turkey drop sequence, a masterclass in comedic timing and escalating chaos. As the turkeys are released from the helicopter, the hapless reporter Les Nessman (Richard Sanders) provides a play-by-play commentary that gradually shifts from enthusiasm to abject horror.

Sanders’ deadpan delivery and vivid descriptions, likening the plummeting turkeys to “sacks of wet cement,” have become iconic lines in pop culture history. The scene’s impact is further heightened by the use of actual footage from the real-life incident, which helped inform Sanders’ performance and lent an air of authenticity to the unfolding disaster.

A Cultural Phenomenon and Lasting Legacy

Despite its initial airing during WKRP in Cincinnati’s first season, “Turkeys Away” quickly gained a devoted following and became a staple of Thanksgiving programming. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its perfect blend of absurd humor, relatable characters, and a healthy dose of holiday spirit.

The episode’s impact extends beyond television as well. In 1997, WKRQ radio station in Indiana paid homage to the iconic turkey drop by releasing toy turkeys from a helicopter, which could be redeemed for real birds – a stunt that undoubtedly brought back fond memories for WKRP fans.

Moreover, “Turkeys Away” has become a touchstone for pop culture references and parodies, solidifying its place in the collective consciousness of audiences across generations. From homages in other shows to countless memes and GIFs circulating online, the episode’s legacy continues to resonate with audiences, cementing its status as a true holiday TV classic.

The Enduring Appeal of WKRP in Cincinnati

While “Turkeys Away” may be the crown jewel of WKRP in Cincinnati’s relatively short four-season run, the show’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the quirky charm and relatable characters that make up the staff of the fictional radio station.

From the lovable newsman Les Nessman to the eccentric program director Andy Travis (Gary Sandy) and the pragmatic receptionist Jennifer Marlowe (Loni Anderson), the ensemble cast brought a rich tapestry of personalities to life, each contributing to the show’s unique brand of offbeat humor.

WKRP in Cincinnati’s legacy extends beyond just “Turkeys Away,” as it remains a beloved and influential sitcom that paved the way for future workplace comedies and celebrated the often overlooked world of radio broadcasting.

Conclusion

While “Turkeys Away” may have started as a simple premise inspired by a real-life anecdote, it has grown to become a cultural touchstone and a beloved holiday tradition. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the power of great storytelling, memorable characters, and the ability of television to create shared experiences that transcend generations.

As audiences continue to return to WKRP in Cincinnati year after year, “Turkeys Away” remains a shining example of how a single episode can capture the imagination of viewers and cement its place in television history. So, this Thanksgiving, as you gather with family and friends, be sure to add this unforgettable episode to your holiday viewing lineup and revel in the timeless hilarity of “Turkeys Away.”