The Guardian TV Series turns 22!
September 25th 2023 marked the 22nd anniversary of the pilot episode for the award winning Simon Baker led procedural series
This three season series ran from 2001 - 2004 and revolved around a successful, hotshot corporate lawyer who falls from grace with a drug conviction. Nick Fallin, played by Simon Baker has been sentenced to 1500 hours of community service as a child advocate in the Pittsburg justice system.
The series premiered shortly after the 9/11 tragedy and introduced Nick Fallin, an extremely driven individual who lives his life in the savage world of corporate law with its mergers, acquisitions and legal entanglements, now forced to complete his community service as The Guardian, a part time Child Advocate where case after case is an eye opening view into the lives of kids struggling in difficult circumstances. All while navigating a strained relationship with his father (played by Dabney Coleman).
This highly acclaimed series was nominated for 13 awards, winning 6 awards including an award for Simon Baker as best actor. The notable list of guest stars contains a mix of established stars such as award winner Farrah Fawcett, Rita Moreno, Joseph Campanella and (at the time) newcomers such as Chris Pine, Zac Efron, Viola Davis and a baby Chloe Grace Moretz.
During its 67 episode run the show tackled a number of poignant topics, it generally managed to tell these stories with realism and sensitivity. There are more than a few episodes that will make you stop and consider the way circumstances often cause people to interact with the Justice system. While the technology has of course changed over the years the stories remain relevant, which might be a reason the show still resonates today. Some people find the series to be quite dark - and it can be since the topics are not comedy material, but the quality of the performances elevate the show.
The Guardian also shows a different performance from a young Simon Baker. Is it worth watching? To my mind it is - it can be found on streaming services as well on physical media.
It’s also time for a Mentalist celebration!
