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William Conrad said that audiences loved Frank Cannon because he was relatable
Viewers could see themselves in the detective.
While Frank Cannon certainly didn't look the part of what many consider to be a stereotypical detective, Cannon was no doubt one of the most popular crime shows of the 1970s. Series star William Conrad argued that his character’s unconventional appearance and nature were the very reason the series had become so successful.
During an interview with the NEA Service, Conrad argued that audiences could “relate” to a man like Cannon.
“That is, to somebody who is not more beautiful, more handsome, taller, has whiter teeth, all of those gorgeous qualities which used to be requisites for most leading men,” said Conrad. “The average Joe Blow doesn’t have this, and his wife doesn’t either. The little lady likes the idea that somebody like her stout husband can be doing some of those crazy, wild things Frank Cannon does every week.”
The everyday audience member was also more likely to see themselves in Frank Cannon, who relied on his wits just as frequently as he had his fists. It provided a rare opportunity for relatability in an otherwise tense genre.
“I think it is easy to understand why a lot of people like this identifiable character we have,” said Conrad. “As Abraham Lincoln said, ‘God must have loved common people, he made so many of them.’ I think it’s that common touch on our show that appeals to everybody.”
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