**Golden Girls Superfans Kelly Ripa, Sheryl Lee Ralph Geek Out in TV Special**
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Popular TV personalities Kelly Ripa, Sheryl Lee Ralph, and Mario Lopez are set to celebrate their love for “The Golden Girls” in an upcoming TV special. The highly-anticipated programme, titled ‘The Golden Girls: 40 Years of Laughter & Friendship — Special Edition of 20/20’, is scheduled to air on ABC on November 4.
Initially aired on NBC on September 14, 1985, “The Golden Girls” quickly became a hit and continued for seven successful seasons. Even after more than three decades since the show ended, it remains a beloved classic, with a timeless appeal that transcends generations. The series is now available for streaming on Hulu, ensuring that new audiences can still enjoy the witty banter and heartwarming moments of Dorothy, Rose, Blanche, and Sophia.
Viewers young and old have embraced the iconic sitcom’s unique charm, making it a cultural phenomenon. In recognition of its profound impact on audiences, ABC News is dedicating an hour-long special to honour ‘The Golden Girls’. This special broadcast promises an in-depth exploration of the show’s enduring legacy and cultural significance.
In a sneak peek shared exclusively with PEOPLE, the TV special features insights from Kelly Ripa, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Laverne Cox, and Mario Lopez, among others. The trailer highlights how each individual was influenced by the show, with Ralph expressing, “Who wasn’t a fan of The Golden Girls?” Mario Lopez fondly recalls his experience working on the series and credits it as a formative part of his career.
Lopez, who appeared as a guest star on the show, reminisces about how he landed his role due to a prior connection with the producers and his admiration for Bea Arthur, who portrayed Dorothy. His sentiment reflects the admiration many feel towards the talented cast, including Rue McClanahan, Betty White, Estelle Getty, and of course, Bea Arthur.
The enduring popularity of “The Golden Girls” is evident in the staggering 100 billion hours it has streamed on Hulu alone. The show’s humour and wit continue to resonate with viewers, as noted by Laverne Cox, who emphasizes that the comedy still remains hilarious and relevant even after four decades.
As the TV special delves into behind-the-scenes moments and fan conventions, it serves as a delightful trip down memory lane for die-hard fans and new viewers alike. The legacy of “The Golden Girls” is celebrated with a fresh perspective that honours its impact on popular culture and television history.
Don’t miss ‘The Golden Girls: 40 Years of Laughter & Friendship — Special Edition of 20/20’, premiering on ABC on November 4 and available for streaming on Disney+ and Hulu the following day. Join Kelly Ripa, Sheryl Lee Ralph, and Mario Lopez in revisiting the beloved series that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.