“CHiPs” aired on NBC from 1977 to 1983. The hour-long action crime drama followed two motorcycle police officers of the California Highway Patrol. Erik Estrada and Larry Wilcox starred in the series.
This 1981 ad promotes “CHiPs” for syndication to local stations around the country. Estrada went on strike around this time in a dispute over syndication profits. He did not appear in seven episodes in the fifth season. He was replaced by Bruce Jenner, now Caitlyn Jenner.
Here’s an example of the series’ opening titles:
A made-for-television sequel, “CHiPs ‘99,” aired on TNT in 1998. Warner Brothers reportedly is working on a film adaptation of the show.
Playing California Highway Patrolmen on the popular TV series ‘CHiPs,’ Larry Wilcox (as Officer Jonathan ‘Jon’ Baker) and Erik Estrada (as Officer Francis ‘Frank’ Llewellyn ‘Ponch’ Poncherello) did wonders for NBC’s ratings, police recruitment numbers, Kawasaki motorcycle sales and the popularity of polyester uniforms.
My Third Parent 