KEN WAHL HAS FOND MEMORIES OF “WISEGUY” PRODUCER STEPHEN CANNELL
Writer/producer Stephen J Cannell (it rhymes with channel) died Thursday and we were reminded that he produced one of our all-time favorite TV series “Wiseguy.” Some people assume that “Wiseguy” star Ken Wahl left the show on bad terms, but actually he and Stephen remained friends. (In fact, a few years back when Ken had physical and financial problems, Stephen kindly offered to help out.) During production they had their differences of opinion, but Ken told me Stephen was always a decent, reasonable, down to earth guy. He appreciated creativity in others and never tried to intimidate his actors like some producers do. Stephen wore jeans instead of a shirt and tie. Ken Wahl has good memories of “Wiseguy,” and knows Stephen played a part in getting him a Golden Globe and several Emmy nominations for the show.