Quark
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Quark
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| Episodes: | 8 |
| Year: | 1977-1978 |
| Country: | United States |
| Seasons: | 1 |
| Seasons Breakdown: | (1) 8 |
| Category: | Comedy |
| Colour: | Yes |
| Format: | Series |
| Company: | David Gerber Productions and Columbia Pictures Television |
| Creator: | Buck Henry |
| Run Time (mins): | 30 |
| Language: | English |
| Type of Show: | Live Action |
| Status: | Ended |
| Broadcaster: | NBC |
| First Aired: | February 24, 1978 |
| Last Aired: | April 7, 1978 |
Summary
Quark derives his name from the commander of an intergalactic refuse‑collection vessel who aspires to more prestigious assignments, though such ambitions are consistently undermined by the difficulties posed by his crew. The crew includes Gene/Jean, a member of a species of transmutes possessing both male and female chromosomal sets. Although typically portrayed as a conventionally masculine thrill‑seeker, Gene/Jean periodically and unpredictably exhibits a markedly feminine personality.
Quark’s science officer, Ficus, is a Vegaton, a plant‑based lifeform characterised by emotional detachment and a propensity for lengthy, highly analytical explanations. The character functions as a parody of Mr. Spock from Star Trek. The vessel is also staffed by the Bettys, two identical women, one of whom is the clone of the other, and Andy, a timid robot constructed by Quark from salvaged components.
Quark’s prospects are further constrained by his superior officer, Otto Palindrome, who is depicted as subservient to his own commanding authority, known simply as the Head. The Head, a large disembodied head presiding over the United Galaxies, appears on Palindrome’s viewscreen at the beginning of each episode to issue assignments to Quark and two other space commanders. Whereas the other commanders routinely receive missions conducive to career advancement, Quark is typically directed to collect refuse or, when circumstances are unfavourable, to serve as the subject of the Head’s latest experimental initiative.
Despite the routine nature of his official duties, Quark frequently becomes involved in hazardous or unusual situations, often confronting antagonistic forces that threaten intergalactic stability.
Cast
Commander Adam Quark RICHARD BENJAMAN, Gene/Jean TIM THOMERSON, Ficus RICHARD KELTON, Betty I/Betty II TRICIA AND CYB BARNSTABLE, Andy the Robot BOBBY PORTER ,Otto Palindrome CONRAD JANIS, The Head ALAN CALLIOU.
Tags: Comedy, United States, 1978, English
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