Perfect Strangers (ION, Syndicated)

When Larry Appleton (Mark Linn-Baker) moves to Chicago from Wisconsin to start a new life, he's unexpectedly joined by distant cousin Balki Bartokomous (Bronson Pinchot), who's emigrated from the fictitious Mediterranean island of Mypos to discover America. Rather uptight, Larry must adjust to naïve-but-always-upbeat Balki as he, in turn, adapts to the ways of his new country. Balki's unique Myposian customs sometimes cause mishap and mayhem in Larry's normally well-organized life. But despite their inevitable culture clashes, the two bachelors help each other cope with the day-to-day grind of life in the Windy City. Together they contend with their grumpy boss/landlord Donald "Twinkie" Twinkacetti (Ernie Sabella). And they find companionship in the form of attractive neighbors Jennifer Lyons (Melanie Wilson) and Mary Anne Spencer (Rebeca Arthur). Over the years, Larry and Balki forge a positive camaraderie that transcends marriage and major career changes -- including jobs at the fictitious Chicago Chronicle, where they work with interesting characters like Sam Gorpley (Sam Anderson), Harry Burns (Eugene Roche), advice columnist Lydia Markham (Belita Moreno), and elevator operator Harriett Winslow (Jo Marie Payton). Later, Mr. Wainwright (F.J. O'Neil) joins the gang.

The '80s sitcom PERFECT STRANGERS is a funny reminder of how extraordinary -- and often overwhelming -- the experience of moving to America from another country can be. While the show's humor is sometimes silly and dated, Perfect Strangers incorporates some timeless comedy traditions adapted from the works of Abbott and Costello and Laurel and Hardy. (There's also some subtle sexual innuendo, which gets stronger in later seasons.)

But what really makes this show stand out is its distinctly positive presentation of immigration and cultural differences. And while the show's "best-friend" formula isn't exactly unique, it also offers a strong example of family loyalty and friendship.