If you were watching NBC in the mid-80s, you might remember a hidden gem called It’s Your Move. This teen sitcom, created by Michael G. Moye and Ron Leavitt (who would later create Married… with Children), only lasted for one season, airing from September 26, 1984, to February 23, 1985. But its 18 episodes left an impression on those lucky enough to catch it. Starring a young Jason Bateman as the slick-talking, fast-thinking Matthew Burton, It’s Your Move was all about clever schemes, sharp dialogue, and a battle of wits.
Plot in a Nutshell
The show follows Matthew, a high schooler and master manipulator who lives with his single mom, Eileen, in an L.A. apartment. Life’s good until Eileen starts dating their new neighbor, Norman Lamb (David Garrison). Matthew sees Norman as a threat to his comfortable lifestyle, leading to an ongoing chess match of pranks, schemes, and one-upmanship. Norman, a writer, isn’t as naive as he looks, so their battles became the comedic heart of the show.
Jason Bateman’s Star Power
By the time It’s Your Move hit the airwaves, Jason Bateman was already a rising star thanks to his role on Silver Spoons. But It’s Your Move gave him the spotlight, letting him flex his comedic muscles as the scheming but lovable antihero. Bateman’s charismatic performance is one of the main reasons the show earned a loyal fanbase, even if it never broke into the mainstream.
The Cancellation Saga
Despite its potential, It’s Your Move struggled in the ratings. NBC made changes midway through the season, toning down Matthew’s pranks and moving the show away from its original edge. Fans weren’t thrilled with the softer approach, and the show was axed after just 18 episodes. However, Bateman and Garrison would both go on to bigger things—Bateman with Arrested Development and Garrison as Steve on Married… with Children.
Gnarly Nuggets:
- Bateman’s Prototype: Jason Bateman’s It’s Your Move character, Matthew, was considered the prototype for his later role as Michael Bluth in Arrested Development.
- Legendary Episode: The show had a legendary two-part episode called “The Dregs of Humanity,” where Matthew convinces everyone that a band of skeletons is real!
- Familiar Face: David Garrison, who played Norman, would later become well-known as Steve Rhoades on Married… with Children.
