ABC | Release Date: September 20, 1985
CRITIC SCORE DISTRIBUTION
53
METASCORE
Mixed or average reviews based on 7 Critic Reviews
Positive:
4
Mixed:
1
Negative:
2
70
Chicago TribuneSteve DaleyJul 24, 2014
Season 1 Review: In many respects, "Spenser: For Hire" is just another cop show. But the characters come on strong, speak in complete sentences, bleed when cut and offer us some humanity in a medium where linen jackets and Ferraris have assumed control. It's hard not to like Spenser, and it's hard not to like "Spenser: For Hire." [20 Sep 1985]
70
Miami HeraldSteve SonskyJul 24, 2014
Season 1 Review: Credit is due here for crafting a show in which the relationships are at least as important as the chase scenes. [20 Sep 1985]
70
The Globe and Mail (Toronto)Jul 24, 2014
Season 1 Review: Although it doesn't stint on action... the emphasis is more on character and plot. Add some urbane dialogue, solid performances and Boston as the novel setting, and Spenser may find its audience. [7 Sep 1985]
60
San Diego Union-TribuneRobert P. LaurenceJul 24, 2014
Season 1 Review: If "Spenser" has a problem, it is that the detective's sensitivity is not treated very sensitively. As in most TV series, "subtlety" seems to be a foreign word. ... But the car chases and gunfights are staged pretty well, and some good stories and continued strong characterizations could help the show's appeal. [20 Sep 1985]
20
Washington PostTom ShalesJul 24, 2014
Season 1 Review: The most charitable reaction to an enterprise this shallow yet pretentious is, "They've got to be kidding." [20 Sep 1985]