Facts of Life first appeared on American television on March 1, 1979, and remained a defining family sitcom through its nine-season run until the series finale in 1988.
Below is a quick reference table that captures key facts about the show, including premiere details, network, seasons, finale dates, and total episode count.
| Event | Date | Season | Episodes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Series premiere | March 1, 1979 | Season 1 | 25 |
| Season 5 peak | September 26, 1982 | Season 5 | 28 |
| Season 8 renewal | March 1986 | Season 8 | 28 |
| Series finale | May 4, 1988 | Season 9 | 24 |
| Total episodes | 201 | ||
Cast Evolution Over Time
The cast of Facts of Life changed noticeably as the years progressed, with new roommates arriving and others leaving the Eastland School setting.
Original Main Cast
The original group included Ann Marie, Karen, and Natalie, establishing the early dynamic of teenage life and school rules in the series.
Major Additions from Season 2 Onward
Tanya joined the cast early, and other students such as Blair and Jo brought fresh perspectives, expanding the storyline possibilities and audience connection.
Cultural Impact and Ratings
Facts of Life achieved strong Nielsen ratings during the late 1970s and early 1980s, often ranking among the top family comedies on network television.
Its storylines addressed social topics such as friendship, responsibility, and identity, resonating with both teen viewers and parents across the country.
Behind the Scenes and Production
Writers and producers worked to balance humor with heartfelt moments, creating episodes that reflected school events, holidays, and personal milestones.
Casting decisions and ongoing character development were closely tied to the show’s long-term vision, adapting to actor schedules and evolving audience expectations.
Legacy and Modern Relevance
Even decades after its last episode, Facts of Life continues to be referenced in discussions about classic family television.
- Premiered in 1979 with a focus on school life and teenage challenges
- Featured evolving cast dynamics across nine seasons
- Reached peak popularity in the early 1980s with strong ratings
- Addressed meaningful social themes relevant to young viewers
- Left a lasting impression on sitcom storytelling and representation
FAQ
Reader questions
When did the original series begin airing?
Facts of Life premiered on March 1, 1979, following the tradition of family-friendly programming on NBC.
Who were the core cast members in the first season?
The initial season featured Ann Marie, Karen, and Natalie as the central students navigating life at Eastland School.
How many seasons did the show ultimately run?
The series completed nine seasons, with the final season wrapping production in 1988.
What date was the series finale broadcast?
The final episode aired on May 4, 1988, concluding the long-running story of the girls at Eastland.