8 Simple Rules (originally titled 8 Simple Rules… for Dating My Teenage Daughter) is an American sitcom television series starring John Ritter and Katey Sagal as Paul and Cate Hennessy, middle-class parents parenting their three children. Bridget, Kerry, and Rory Hennessy are played by Kaley Cuoco, Amy Davidson, and Martin Spanjers.
From September 17, 2002, through April 15, 2005, the series aired on ABC. The first season focused on Paul being left in charge of the kids after Cate took a full-time job as a nurse, emphasising his often stringent rules about dating and his daughters. The title and premise of the series were inspired by W. Bruce Cameron’s book 8 Simple Rules for Dating My Teenage Daughter.
In Nielsen ratings, 8 Simple Rules came in 42nd place. The show dropped to 94th place in the ratings. Even before the third-season finale aired, there were rumours that 8 Simple Rules would be cancelled due to Ritter’s death and low ratings.
Where To watch?
8 Simple Rules is available to watch for free on ABC, Disney Plus, Netflix, and Apple iTunes. It includes three seasons and 76 episodes.
There are eight easy rules to follow. The rules are 1. Use your hands on my daughter, and you’ll lose them after.2. You make her cry. I make you cry.3.Safe sex is a myth. Anything you try will be hazardous to your health.4.Bring her home late; there’s no next date.5.If you pull into my driveway and honk, you better be dropping off a package because you’re sure not picking anything up.
No complaining while you’re waiting for her. If you’re bored, change my oil.7. If your pants hang off your hips, I’ll gladly secure them with my staple gun.8. Dates must be in crowded public places. Do you want romance? Read a book.
Cast
Paul Hennessy (2002–2003), played by John Ritter, is a former sportswriter who now works as a lifestyle columnist from home. Katey Sagal plays Cate S. Hennessy (née Egan), the family’s wife, mother, nurse, and undoubtedly the most rational and composed member. Kaley Cuoco plays Bridget Erin “Beach” Hennessy, the gorgeous and sassy oldest child. Amy Davidson plays Kerry “Care Bear” Hennessy, the unhappy middle kid.
Cate and Paul’s son and youngest kid, Rory Joseph Hennessy, is played by Martin Spanjers. He enjoys gossiping about his sisters. Cate’s father, Jim Egan, is played by James Garner (2003–2005). Cate’s nephew, C.J. Barnes (2004–2005), is played by David Spade. Every role was played perfectly by the actors.
All About 8 Simple Rules
It’s not easy raising the Hennessys’ three children, Bridget, Kerry, and Rory. Bridget, the oldest daughter, is on the dating scene. Kerry is attractive and intelligent, but her lack of self-confidence makes it difficult to express her genuine sentiments. Rory, the youngest of three children and the only boy, learns about one of life’s biggest mysteries: girls.
