“Double Trouble”
Liz & Jean Sagal

Though the series wasn't particularly successful, Double Trouble still remains a fond memory in the hearts of kids and teens who grew up during the 1980's. It ran on NBC in 1984 and 1985, then was repeated during the 1990's on the USA Network.

Few series aimed at a young market have ever succeeded in prime time on a major network, and Double Trouble was no exception, lasting for only two seasons. In an attempt to draw more viewers, it was completely revamped for the second season, with a new theme song and supporting cast. There was also a greater emphasis on then-current '80s fashion and music. These changes reflected the 16-year-old Foster twins' new lives, as they left Des Moines to pursue their careers in New York City. However, a wiser move would have been to air it on Saturday mornings, as NBC did with Saved By The Bell--which lasted for many more years, because of its youth-friendly time slot. This would have ensured Double Trouble a far longer and more successful run.

In the show, Jean Sagal played flighty "Kate Foster", and Liz Sagal played serious "Allison Foster"...but in real life, Jean was the serious twin and Liz was the outgoing one. The girls (who were 24 when the series began) were originally cast to play the characters closest to their own personalities. But when Norman Lear happened to see them rehearsing, he suggested they switch roles. As it turned out, they were better at mimicking each other, than acting like themselves!