A Look back at 'ROOM 222' 1969-74

This is the first successful series I have featured in this series. I knew it was on for more than one season, but in my research, I was surprised it lasted five seasons and produced 112 episodes. Beyond its intial run, I don't remember the reruns being in syndication, all though it might be featured on the next METV or THIS TV "networks."

ROOM 222 focused on an American history class at the fictional Walt Whitman High School in Los Angeles, California, although it also depicted other events at the school. Located in Room 222, the class was taught by Pete Dixon, an idealistic African-American schoolteacher. Other characters featured in the show were the school's compassionate guidance counselor, Liz McIntyre, who was also Pete's girlfriend; the dryly humorous school principal, Seymour Kaufman; and the petite and enthusiastic Alice Johnson (Karen Valentine), a student teacher.

ROOM 222's pulled weak ratings in its first season and ABC was ready cancel the program, but the show earned several nominations at the 1970 Emmy Awards, and ABC held off that decision. In the spring of 1970, ROOM 222 won Emmy Awards for Best New Series; Best Supporting Actor (Michael Constantine); and Best Supporting Actress (Karen Valentine).

ROOM 222 did manage to garner respectable ratings during its next three years. Ratings peaked during the 1971-1972 season, during which it held a #28 viewership ranking. By the start of the 1973-1974 season, ratings had fallen drastically, and ABC canceled the show at mid-season.