Today we consider another great Ernie Anderson ABC promo, but there is something about this one that overshadows even the great EA. Let's check out the fine programming waiting for us on Tuesday, January 26, 1982:

OK, I know you're all thinking, "What the hell is Fonzie doing 'doubling for Frankie Avalon'? I don't remember that episode, it looks terrible, and of course I want to watch it.

Over on Laverne & Shirley, sorry, Carmine, but I'm not too excited about watching you "get to play Rocky." The little fall he does after getting clocked does look pretty good, though.

How about the quick shot that implies everyone is at the Regal Beagle watching the State of the Union address over a pint or two. Incredibly, not even that is my favorite aspect of this promo, but I now long for a Three's Company in which the gang hangs out and talks about Reganomics...and Mr. Furley overhears out of context and thinks they're talking about sex.

Instead we settle for "Jack loses his sex appeal," with an odd shot of Jack and Larry panicking together.

The best thing about this is the lineup. After L&S, President Reagan gives his speech to an anxious nation. However, the obligatory opposition response does not come right afterwards. There isn't even "news and analysis" from the likes of David Brinkley. No, the president yields to the good brother from Santa Monica, Jack Tripper, for an entire episode of the show before the Democrats get their say.

I love this. It's like Three's Company is far too important to be interrupted by something as frivolous and farcical as politics. America, on Tuesday night, enjoy some long-running comedies, watch the big speech, but don't worry: Three's Company  will indeed be seen tonight, and you won't have to sit through Ted Kennedy or Tip O'Neill to enjoy it.