Ace Crawford, Private Eye

1 9 8 3 (USA)
5 x 30 minute episodes

This short-lived CBS sitcom introduced Ace Crawford - probably the world's worst Private Detective. Ace solved his cases mostly through sheer fluke and good luck. There was certainly very little skill involved - although dressed in the obligatory crumpled trench-coat and hat, Ace farted around without a clue about how to find a clue. 

Much to the amazement of police 'tec Lieutenant Fanning, Ace regularly stumbled upon the solutions to the most difficult of crime cases, and had at least two women lusting after him: his accountant-cum-assistant Toomey, and sexy singer Luana. The latter worked at a tacky wharfside bar called The Shanty, where Ace drank and hung out with its owner/barman, a midget named Inch (played by midget Billy Barty) and Mello, the blind black pianist (played by the real-life jazz star Bill Henderson).

Blind luck and fortuitous accidents were responsible for solving most of Ace's cases, but his incredible run of luck had earned him an undeserved reputation and brought him a continuous stream of clients.

Actor Tim Conway, who played Ace Crawford, had none of his character's luck, however. The series was cancelled after just five episodes, adding to a career list of flops that included cowboy series Rango (1967), The Tim Conway Comedy Hour (1970), The Tim Conway Show (1970) and tasteless sketch show Turn-On (1979).