NYPD Blue (season 1)

The first season of NYPD Blue, an American television police drama set in New York City, aired as part of the 1993–94 United States network television schedule for ABC, premiering on September 21, 1993 and concluding on May 17, 1994. The show explores the internal and external struggles of the fictional 15th precinct of Manhattan. Each episode typically intertwines several plots involving an ensemble cast. The season led to a record 26 Emmy nominations.[1] and six awards.

NYPD Blue
Season 1
Season 1 U.S. DVD Cover
Country of originUnited States
No. of episodes22
Release
Original networkABC
Original releaseSeptember 21, 1993 (1993-09-21) 
May 17, 1994 (1994-05-17)
Season chronology

Plot

John Kelly and Andy Sipowicz are detectives in the 15th squad. Sipowicz is the elder partner but is a drunk and a threat to the partnership lasting much longer. Kelly has a genuine affection for his partner but becomes increasingly exasperated by Sipowicz's behavior. In the pilot, Sipowicz is shot, and nearly killed, by Alphonse Giardella, a gangster whom Sipowicz, while drunk, insulted badly in public. This leads to his decision to stay sober (after involuntarily drying out while in a coma) and save his job. While his partner is recuperating, Kelly is teamed up by the squad's Lieutenant, Arthur Fancy, with a young cop from Anti-Crime, James Martinez.

Kelly's personal life is no less complicated, as he is reluctantly going through a divorce from his wife, Laura, and is embarking on an affair with a uniformed cop, Janice Licalsi. To complicate matters further, Licalsi has been ordered to do a 'hit' on Kelly by mob boss Angelo Marino, otherwise Marino will turn in Licalsi's father, who is on his payroll. Instead, Licalsi murders Marino and the repercussions come back to haunt both her and Kelly.

Sipowicz begins a relationship with A.D.A. Sylvia Costas while another detective in the squad, Greg Medavoy, embarks on an affair of his own with the squad's new police administrative aide (P.A.A.), Donna Abandando.

Cast

Main

ActorCharacterMain castRecurring cast
David CarusoJohn Kellyentire season
Dennis FranzAndy Sipowiczentire season
James McDanielArthur Fancyentire season
Sherry StringfieldADA Laura Michaelsentire season
Amy BrennemanJanice Licalsientire season
Nicholas TurturroJames Martinezentire season
Sharon LawrenceADA Sylvia CostasEpisodes 1, 4, 6-9, 11, 13-16, 18-22
Gordon ClappGreg MedavoyEpisodes 3, 5-6, 8-19, 21-22
Gail O'GradyPAA Donna AbandandoEpisodes 8-22

Recurring guest roles

Season 1's recurring guest roles include:

  • David Schwimmer as Josh '4B' Goldstein (Episodes 1-4), Laura Michaels' neighbor, whose stint as a vigilante ends badly. Dies in episode 4.
  • Robert Costanzo as Alphonse Giardella (Episodes 1-3, 5-7), a mobster who, after shooting and nearly killing Sipowicz in the pilot, turns State's evidence. Assassinated in episode 7.
  • Joe Santos as Marino (Episodes 1-2), head mobster who wants Kelly dead for continued "business" interference. Murdered in episode 2.
  • Larry Romano as Richie Catina (Episodes 2, 9-12),
  • Daniel Benzali as James Sinclair, Esq. (Episodes 1, 2, 22)
  • Luis Guzman as Hector Martinez (Episodes 5, 9), Detective Martinez' father
  • Michael Harney as Detective Mike Roberts (Episodes 6, 8-9, 15, 18)
  • Michael DeLuise as Andy Sipowicz, Jr. (Episode 7, 19, 22)
  • Bradley Whitford as Norman Gardner (Episodes 13, 21), a crusading reporter.

Episodes

Each NYPD Blue episode entry includes its original airdate in the United States, the writing and directing credits, and a plot summary. The credits and airdates are taken from the pamphlet accompanying the Region 1 Season 1 DVDs.

No.
overall
No. in
season
TitleDirected byWritten byOriginal air dateProd.
code
U.S. viewers
(millions)
11"Pilot"Gregory HoblitStory by: David Milch & Steven Bochco
Teleplay by: David Milch
September 21, 1993 (1993-09-21)0K01/510122.8[2]

In the very first episode of the series, the hotheaded and alcoholic Detective Andy Sipowicz is determined to get mafia soldier Alphonse Giardella in prison, leading to Sipowicz attacking Giardella outside his restaurant. Suspended for his reckless actions, Sipowicz meets up with a prostitute and is lured into a trap by Giardella and shot nearly to death. A vengeful detective John Kelly, Sipowicz's younger partner who is going through a divorce, decides to take on the mob himself while starting a relationship with Officer Janice Licalsi.

Notes

  • First appearance of David Caruso as John Kelly, Dennis Franz as Andy Sipowicz, James McDaniel as Arthur Fancy, Sherry Stringfield as Laura Michaels, Amy Brenneman as Janice Licalsi, Nicholas Turturro as James Martinez and Sharon Lawrence as Sylvia Costas.
  • Guest starring Daniel Benzali as James Sinclair, Joe Santos (Rockford Files) as Head Mobster Marino and David Schwimmer as Josh '4B' Goldstein.
  • A quarter of ABC's 225 member stations preempted the pilot.
  • The pilot earned a DGA Award; the competition included two other episodes from the season, "True Confessions" and "From Hare To Eternity".
  • A Recurring guest-star during NYPD Blue (season 1) was actor Robert Costanzo as the mafia soldier Alphonse Giardella. Costanzo was also a guest on Friends, playing the character Joey Tribbiani Sr in the first season episode The One With the Boobies. Costanzo and Schwimmer are two Friends actors who appeared in multiple NYPD Blue episodes in the first season.
  • The famous opening scene between Sipowicz and ADA Costas includes her saying the line "I would say 'Res ipsa loquitur' if I thought you knew what it meant," to which Sipowicz replied, "Hey, ipsa this you pissy little bitch", while grabbing his crotch. The phrase Costas is referring to is latin meaning 'the thing speaks for itself'.
  • In 1996, TV Guide included this episode as part of its "100 Most Memorable Moments in TV History", ranking it # 83.
22"4B or Not 4B"Gregory HoblitStory by: David Milch & Steven Bochco
Teleplay by: David Milch
September 28, 1993 (1993-09-28)0K02/510220.3[3]

As Sipowicz slowly recovers from his wounds he says that he cannot remember who shot him. Kelly appears in court on behalf of a man whose son was killed in a drive-by shooting. Laura Kelly's neighbour, Josh '4B' Goldstein, carries a concealed weapon hoping to surprise the person who mugged him.

Note

33"Brown Appetit"Gregory HoblitStory by: David Milch & Steven Bochco
Teleplay by: David Milch
October 5, 1993 (1993-10-05)0K03/510321.0[4]

Kelly and Martinez investigate a strangulation murder; Fancy releases Sipowicz to full duty and he joins the investigation. Fallout from the Marino case implicates Licalsi's father in wrongdoing. Kelly moonlights as a bodyguard for the wife of a millionaire. Sipowicz exacts his own unique revenge on Giardella.

Note

44"True Confessions"Charles HaidStory by: Art Monterastelli and David Milch & Steven Bochco
Teleplay by: David Milch and Art Monterastelli
October 12, 1993 (1993-10-12)K506/510521.2[5]

Kelly and Sipowicz investigate a double homicide at a liquor store. Mrs. Wagner seeks revenge against her husband and Goldstein fatally ignores Kelly's warnings about confronting criminals.

Notes

55"Emission Accomplished"Michael M. RobinTed MannOctober 19, 1993 (1993-10-19)0K11/511119.6[6]

Martinez, come to take his brother to detox, discovers the super is also a cop. The super is harassing the tenants illegally to force them out. Following the death of a tenant in Roberto's building, a disgusted Kelly helps Martinez in bringing Hanlon to justice, saving Martinez from spending the rest of his career in IAB. A gambling addicted detective spends the last of his savings staging elaborate practical jokes at the precinct.

Notes

66"Personal Foul"Brad SilberlingStory by: David Milch
Teleplay by: Burton Armus
October 26, 1993 (1993-10-26)0K08/510822.2[7]

Kelly is forced to arrest a close friend after a dispute on a basketball court results in a death. Sipowicz suspects a husband may be concealing the truth in the drive-by shooting of his wife. Licalsi's quick thinking saves Kelly's life during a drugs raid.

Notes

  • Guest starring Tobin Bell as Jerry.
  • There is a commentary for this episode by Brad Silberling on the DVD release.
  • James Pickens Jr. guests stars as a postal worker named Nathan Foster, Pickens appeared again in Season 7 playing a different character, a Police Lieutenant named Joe Abner.
77"NYPD Lou"Gregory HoblitTed MannNovember 2, 1993 (1993-11-02)0K07/510719.7[8]

Kelly and Sipowicz investigate the disappearance of a young boy. Sipowicz's estranged son announces his engagement to a woman that raises the father's suspicions. Laura is the sole witness when an assassin ambushes Giardella. A man who claims to be a werewolf may have witnessed a murder.

Notes

88"Tempest in a C-Cup"Daniel SackheimGardner SternNovember 16, 1993 (1993-11-16)0K10/511019.8[9]

Kelly interrogates a man suspected of committing a string of taxi robberies, one of which resulted in the shooting death of a cab driver. Sipowicz goes undercover at a topless bar. Lt. Fancy hires Donna Abandando, a civilian, as the precinct's receptionist and administrative assistant for the squad.

Notes

99"Ice Follies"Dennis DuganW.K. Scott MeyerNovember 30, 1993 (1993-11-30)0K09/510918.5[10]

When Roberto, Martinez's brother, dies of a drug overdose, their father vows revenge. Licalsi receives a blackmail threat from the mob. Medavoy, seeking a distraction from his troubled marriage, accepts Donna's offer to go ice skating.

Note

1010"Oscar, Meyer, Weiner"Brad SilberlingTed Mann & Gardner SternDecember 7, 1993 (1993-12-07)0K12/511217.5[11]

Kelly investigates the brutal robbery-murder of a wealthy family and a Hollywood screenwriter reports that his Oscar has been stolen. Meanwhile, Licalsi ignores Kelly's advice and informs Lastarza that she is being blackmailed by the mob.

Note

  • Guest starring Renee O'Connor as Rebecca Sloane
  • There is a commentary for this episode by Brad Silberling on the DVD release.
1111"From Hare to Eternity"Eric LaneuvilleDavid Milch & Burton ArmusDecember 14, 1993 (1993-12-14)0K13/511319.0[12]
Fancy is harassed by Borough Commander Haverill who accuses him of mismanaging the detectives. Kelly and Sipowicz investigate the kidnapping of a young girl while a destitute mother with a questionable past agrees to testify against a man who is suspected of committing armed robbery. Sipowicz realizing that Haverill is trying to move Fancy out for bogus reasons blackmails Haverill over an unsolved mob murder. The precinct staff collects gifts for a Christmas party they are hosting for some needy children.
1212"Up on the Roof"Michael M. RobinGeorge D. PutnamJanuary 4, 1994 (1994-01-04)0K14/511420.7[13]
A manhunt ensues when Tommy Linardi's dead body is discovered inside a nightclub. A robber uses a fake ATM to rob unsuspecting customers of their savings and Fancy tries retaining temporary custody of a young boy whose mother only recently finished a drug rehabilitation program.
1313"Abandando Abandoned"Gregory HoblitStory by: David Milch & Steven Bochco
Teleplay by: Ted Mann & Gardner Stern
January 11, 1994 (1994-01-11)0K15/511520.5[14]

Detectives investigate the shooting death of a man whose wife recently transferred to the precinct. A woman claims she wants her husband prosecuted for spousal abuse but never follows through on her threat. Elsewhere, Medavoy begins an affair with Donna.

Notes

1414"Jumpin' Jack Fleishman"Rick WallaceStory by: Steven Bochco & David Milch
Teleplay by: Ted Mann & Gardner Stern & Burton Armus
January 18, 1994 (1994-01-18)0K16/511621.7[15]
The detectives search for a cross-dressing killer, while a sexual assault victim fears her husband will blame the attack on her provocative style of dress. Sipowicz's dental appointment is interrupted when a doctor threatens to commit suicide.
1515"Steroid Roy"Félix AlcaláAnn BidermanFebruary 8, 1994 (1994-02-08)0K17/511723.5[16]

A detective becomes the prime suspect in the suspicious suicide of a police informant. Laura believes Kelly may have overlooked evidence in a homicide investigation and a detective obsessed with his physique is tested for substance abuse.

Note

1616"A Sudden Fish"Lesli Linka GlatterStory by: Steven Bochco & David Milch
Teleplay by: Burton Armus & Gardner Stern
February 15, 1994 (1994-02-15)0K18/511817.8[17]
The girlfriend of a terminally ill millionaire is blackmailed by her ex-lover and Sipowicz investigates the robbery of a disabled Vietnam veteran.
1717"Black Men Can Jump"Jesús S. TreviñoStory by: Steven Bochco & David Milch
Teleplay by: Ted Mann
March 1, 1994 (1994-03-01)0K19/511922.2[18]

The detectives investigate the slaying of a young black teenager whose father takes matters in his own hands when a likely suspect escapes. Sipowicz suspects a private investigator is taking advantage of a man whose daughter disappeared 2+12 years earlier.

Notes

  • There is a commentary for this episode by Bill Clark on the DVD release. Clark notes that the only roles that were initially cast were Franz as Sipowicz and McDaniel as Fancy. After Clark saw Mad Dog and Glory he suggested to the show's creators that David Caruso play Sipowicz's partner; Clark then found out that Caruso was already under consideration.
1818"Zeppo Marks Brothers"Michael M. RobinStory by: Steven Bochco & David Milch
Teleplay by: Ann Biderman
March 22, 1994 (1994-03-22)0K20/512019.9[19]

After a material witness escapes, again, from protective custody, and is gunned down in the street, the detectives scramble to save their case against the two brothers he was to testify against -- who have also planned a hit on Laura.

Notes

1919"Serge the Concierge"Lesli Linka GlatterStory by: Bill Clark
Teleplay by: David Milch & Gardner Stern & Burton Armus
March 29, 1994 (1994-03-29)0K21/512121.2[20]

Kelly, Medavoy, and Martinez lead a search for a girl's body in a Staten Island landfill, finding another body in the process. Sipowicz attempts to clear Andy Jr.'s name after his son is arrested for selling drugs.

Note

  • The episode earned production designer Paul Eads and set decorator Mary Ann Biddle a Creative Arts Emmy Award for "Outstanding Individual Achievement in Art Direction for a Series".
2020"Good Time Charlie"Gregory HoblitStory by: Steven Bochco & David Milch
Teleplay by: Ted Mann & Ann Biderman
May 3, 1994 (1994-05-03)0K22/512219.0[21]
Kelly and Sipowicz investigate the death of one of Charlie Lear's many mistresses. Licalsi receives an unexpected promotion. Sipowicz has a rough night after meeting Costas' family at a birthday party. Fancy's wife tells her husband that she is pregnant.
2121"Guns 'N' Rosaries"Michael M. RobinStory by: Steven Bochco & David Milch
Teleplay by: Burton Armus & Gardner Stern
May 10, 1994 (1994-05-10)0K23/512322.8[22]
Medavoy and Martinez narrowly escape injury when a disgruntled driver tries to shoot them, then face the wrath of angry African Americans who believe that they have killed a black man without reason. Licalsi confesses to murdering Marino and his driver and Andy attends an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting. Meanwhile, Medavoy moves out once again after he discovers his wife has been cheating on him.
2222"Rockin' Robin"Gregory HoblitStory by: Jody Worth
Teleplay by: Jody Worth & Ted Mann
May 17, 1994 (1994-05-17)0K24/512423.2[23]

Detectives investigate the murder of a priest whose body was discovered in a park frequented by male prostitutes. Sipowicz reopens an investigation into the disappearance of a friend's daughter. While Kelly and Robin become lovers, Licalsi wins release on bail.

Notes

References

  1. N.Y.P.D. Blue Receives 26 Emmy Nominations from The New York Times
  2. Gable, Donna (September 29, 1993). "'Dave's World', 'Harts' help CBS to victory". USA Today. Gannett Company. p. D3.
  3. "Nielsen ratings". USA Today. Gannett Company. October 6, 1993. p. D3.
  4. Gable, Donna (October 13, 1993). "New shows pick up steam in ABC win". USA Today. Gannett Company. p. D3.
  5. Grahm, Jefferson; Gable, Donna (October 20, 1993). "'Home Improvement' powers to No. 1". USA Today. Gannett Company. p. D3.
  6. "Nielsen ratings". USA Today. Gannett Company. October 27, 1993. p. D3.
  7. DeRosa, Robin (November 3, 1993). "ABC usurps CBS as No. 1". USA Today. Gannett Company. p. D3.
  8. "Nielsen ratings". USA Today. Gannett Company. November 10, 1993. p. D3.
  9. DeRosa, Robin (November 24, 1993). "ABC usurps CBS as No. 1". USA Today. Gannett Company. p. D3.
  10. "Nielsen ratings". USA Today. December 8, 1993. p. D3.
  11. DeRosa, Robin (December 15, 1993). "Midler's 'Gypsy' coming up roses for CBS". USA Today. Gannett Company. p. D3.
  12. DeRosa, Robin (December 22, 1993). "ABC on top for 2nd week". USA Today. Gannett Company. p. D3.
  13. DeRosa, Robin (January 12, 1994). "'Improvement' leads ABC charge". USA Today. Gannett Company. p. D3.
  14. "Nielsen ratings". USA Today. January 19, 1994. p. D3.
  15. "Nielsen ratings". USA Today. Gannett Company. January 26, 1994. p. D3.
  16. "Nielsen ratings". USA Today. Gannett Company. February 16, 1994. p. D3.
  17. "Weekly Nielsen Ratings: 1993-94 TV Season". Ratings Ryan. January 19, 2021. Retrieved April 6, 2023.
  18. "Nielsen ratings". USA Today. March 9, 1994. p. D3.
  19. "Nielsen ratings". USA Today. March 30, 1994. p. D3.
  20. "Nielsen ratings". USA Today. Gannett Company. April 6, 1994. p. D3.
  21. DeRosa, Robin (May 11, 1994). "ABC keeps hammering away". USA Today. Gannett Company. p. D3.
  22. "Nielsen ratings". USA Today. Gannett Company. May 18, 1994. p. D3.
  23. "Nielsen ratings". USA Today. Gannett Company. May 25, 1994. p. D3.
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