'Chair' and 'Chamber' fight to be the hot seat

By Allan Johnson

"The Chair's" Friday repeat hastens ABC's "Once and Again" into Hiatusland.

The smart and moving romantic drama won't return until March 4, when it will be transplanted to Mondays at 9 p.m.

One of TV's most affecting dramas deserves a better fate, despite its low ratings. It has been constantly shuffled around the schedule for most of its three seasons, and ABC has reduced its episode order this season from 22 to a disheartening 17.

It's tough because the show is at an emotional high while centering on the bone-crunching accident of the depressed Karen Sammler (Susanna Thompson). She's proof of one of "Once and Again's" strengths -- so full of rich characters that it doesn't have to concentrate on the relationship of Lily and Rick (Sela Ward, Billy Campbell). __ Chicago Tribune (January 18, 2002)

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