In the realm of classic American television, few shows have had as unique a premise as the 1980s sitcom, *B.J. and the Bear*. The series followed the adventures of a truck driver named Billie Joe “B.J.” McKay, played by Greg Evigan, who navigated life on the road alongside his unusual companion, a pet chimpanzee. The show, which aired from 1979 to 1981, left an indelible mark on its viewers, and recently Evigan shared insights into how he ended up in the role and his initial thoughts on the show’s quirky concept.
In a recent interview with Pop Culture Retro, Evigan, now 72, reflected on a pivotal moment in his career. Just prior to auditioning for *B.J. and the Bear*, he had contemplated leaving Los Angeles in favour of returning to New York, where he aimed to revive his aspirations on the Broadway stage. However, his plans took an unexpected turn when his agent contacted him with news about an audition that would alter the course of his career.
“I was feeling uncertain about my future in LA,” recalled Evigan. He was ready to embrace a new chapter back on the East Coast when his agent persuaded him to consider one last opportunity. “She called me up and said, ‘Greg, I know you’re leaving, but can you just go on this one thing?’” Initially sceptical, Evigan hesitated when he learned about the show’s premise. “It’s this guy that drives around in a truck, you know. And he talks to a chimp,” the agent explained. Evigan recounted his disbelief at the outlandish concept, responding with a simple yet incredulous, “What?”
The actor’s reservations about the show’s premise were palpable, but his agent’s insistence ultimately swayed him. “She told me, ‘Greg, you’ve got to go. Just go in and don’t even care,’” he shared. It was this mindset of not being overly concerned about the audition that, he believes, contributed to his success in landing the role. “As an actor, if you care too much, it shows,” he remarked. “You look like you need the job, and that’s not a good look.”
Evigan’s portrayal of the easy-going B.J. McKay resonated strongly with audiences, propelling *B.J. and the Bear* into the hearts of viewers and allowing it to enjoy a respectable three-season run on NBC. The unique combination of adventure and comedy, coupled with Evigan’s charm and the endearing presence of the chimp, showcased a distinctive flair that set the show apart from its contemporaries.
Following his success in *B.J. and the Bear*, Evigan went on to star in another beloved sitcom of the 1980s, *My Two Dads*, which premiered in 1987. This show featured a comedic twist on family dynamics, where Evigan played the free-spirited artist Joey Harris, alongside Paul Reiser, who portrayed the more conservative Michael Taylor. The two men, each vying for the affections of the same woman, navigated their unconventional role as co-parents, further solidifying Evigan’s place in television history.
Despite the difference in themes from his first major success, Evigan seamlessly transitioned into this new role, showcasing his adaptability as an actor. *My Two Dads* aired for three seasons and became a staple of 1980s television, once again highlighting Evigan’s ability to connect with audiences through humour and heartfelt storytelling.
Looking back at his career, Evigan’s experiences serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry. What began as an uncertain desire to return to Broadway transformed into a successful television career, illustrating that sometimes the most unconventional opportunities can lead to extraordinary outcomes.
In a landscape dominated by mainstream narratives, *B.J. and the Bear* remains a testament to the creativity and whimsy of its time, led by a cast and crew willing to embrace the absurd. As Evigan continues to reflect on his journey, he represents not only a successful actor but also an embodiment of the adventurous spirit that characterised that era of television.
Today, both *B.J. and the Bear* and *My Two Dads* continue to be celebrated by fans, offering a nostalgic glimpse into a time when television was characterised by originality and unapologetic fun. Evigan’s story exemplifies how taking risks and staying open to new experiences can yield unexpected rewards throughout one’s career.