China Beach: Living or Dead?

About China Beach

China Beach was a groundbreaking television show that aired from 1988 to 1991, set during the Vietnam War and following the lives of the women who served as nurses and support staff at an evacuation hospital. The show was created by William Broyles Jr. and John Sacret Young, and starred Dana Delany as head nurse Colleen McMurphy.

The show tackled difficult topics such as the horrors of war, drug addiction, and the challenges faced by women in a male-dominated field. It also featured a diverse cast of characters, including African American nurse Cherry White (Nan Woods), Vietnamese refugee K.C. Koloski (Margarita Franco), and Army officer Boonie Lanier (Brian Wimmer).

China Beach was praised for its realistic portrayal of the war and its impact on those who served, as well as for its strong female characters. The show won numerous awards, including two Emmys for Outstanding Drama Series and a Peabody Award.

Despite its critical acclaim, China Beach struggled in the ratings and was cancelled after four seasons. However, it has since gained a cult following and is considered a classic of 1980s television.

In the words of Rolling Stone, "China Beach was a show ahead of its time, tackling difficult subjects with sensitivity and nuance. Its legacy lives on as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served in Vietnam, and the strength of the women who supported them."

References:

- "China Beach: The Complete Series." DVD Talk, 2013.

- "China Beach: A Cultural History." Ed. Susan Jeffords and Jessica Cox. Rutgers University Press, 1998.

- "China Beach: The Complete Series." Shout! Factory, 2013.