Blink And You’ll Miss How Netflix’s The Four Seasons Honors Alan Alda

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Netflix’s new series, The Four Seasons, is a fresh take on the 1981 film and has introduced Alan Alda’s work to a new audience. The show cleverly included a quick cameo of Alda this season, subtly connecting him to the series’ past. Though Alda, a hugely popular actor known for his iconic role as Hawkeye in MASH, doesn’t appear regularly, he remains an important figure within the show’s history. Since his Parkinson’s diagnosis in 2015, and due to age, he has been appearing on screen less frequently.

This new take on The Four Seasons updates the classic film for modern streaming, but still captures the original’s heartwarming spirit and humor, even with its complex relationships. Tina Fey and Will Forte step into the roles originally made famous by Carol Burnett, and the show uses a seasonal structure to span roughly a year in the lives of the main characters and their friends. Throughout the series, The Four Seasons regularly introduces new characters – neighbors, parents, and more – to create a fuller picture of their world.

I was so excited to see Alan Alda join the cast! Even though he’s usually the star, it’s cool to see him play a different kind of role in this Netflix series. And knowing he’s also a producer, it felt extra special to see him pop up in season 2 of The Four Seasons – it was a really nice nod to his work.

Alan Alda Has A Quick Cameo In The Four Seasons’ Pivotal “Small Thanksgiving” Episode

Alda first appeared in season one of The Four Seasons as Anne’s father, Don, and he makes a brief return in season two. In season two, episode six, “Little Thanksgiving,” the show flashes back to a Thanksgiving several years before Nick’s (Steve Carell) death. This particular Thanksgiving takes place during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the characters having recently finished quarantining, and includes a talent show that’s shared with loved ones remotely.

During a Zoom talent show featured in the series, Alda briefly appears on screen, cheerfully reacting to a performance by Anne and her daughter Lila, along with Kate & Jack’s daughter, Beth. This small moment acknowledges that the show originated with Alda’s film, giving him well-deserved recognition. This nod to the show’s origins makes it feel like a story passed down through generations, and it’s particularly effective in one of the series’ most creative episodes.

Alda’s Role As Anne’s Father Allows Him To Watch Over His Story From A Distance

Alan Alda’s part in The Four Seasons isn’t large, but his character offers a surprisingly meaningful role: a father figure. In a clever move, Alda plays the father of a key character, essentially allowing him to oversee the series and its evolution. This provides a subtle tribute to his history with the show, avoiding a complicated backstory explanation.

Fans are hoping The Four Seasons gets renewed for a third season, and if it does, there’s a chance it will again feature a tribute to the actor Alda. His appearances, connecting him to the show’s version of his original work, are a highlight for many viewers and add a special depth to the story.

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2026-05-28 23:38