If You Can't Beat 'Em

In between New Zealand's first sitcom Buck House (1974–75) and the 1977 launch of hit show A Week of It, came this short-lived comedy set in the world of rugby. Written by teacher Kevin Boon, the six-part series was built around a social rugby team. Plotlines saw team members playing rugby on their wedding day, coaching a school team, and starting a strike at work. The cast included John Bach (playing nerdy for a change), Don Selwyn, and Fair Go presenter Judith Fyfe. If You Can't Beat 'Em was one of the first Kiwi TV comedies to be filmed largely before a live audience. A second season was reportedly written, but never made.