The Unemployment Line: Where Everybody Knows Your Name

I used to live down the street from the Bull and Finch Pub,  the Boston bar that became the model for “Cheers”, and which later changed its name to reflect its new-found fame.  Although I was never a regular there, and didn’t know Eddie Doyle, reading about him makes me wish I did.  Doyle, in his mid-60’s, was laid off from Cheers after 35 years because of the bad economy.

The bar’s owner has said a tough economy and sagging business forced the move, which was one of several layoffs.

Doyle said he’s not bitter, just surprised and a little sad.

“This bar, for me … it was not just another job,” Doyle said. “It was the perfect job.”

Doyle, unlike the television character Sam Malone, has been married to the same woman for decades.  He gave up a career in advertising and, as a beloved member of the community, began the annual “Cheers for Children” charity in 1979, which would eventually bring in a million dollars a year.  Like Doyle’s job, the charity’s days are now numbered.

The lyrics to one of television’s great theme songs, written by Gary Portnoy and Judy Hart Angelo, surely resonate:

Making your way in the world today takes everything you’ve got.
Taking a break from all your worries, sure would help a lot.

Wouldn’t you like to get away?

By: Alan

Alan Colmes is the publisher of Liberaland.