If "This Is Us" isn't giving your tear ducts enough of a workout, consider revisiting these underappreciated sob stories:
"Family" (1976-80): "Eight Is Enough" was the bigger hit at the time, but this other California-based family drama scored better at the Emmys with wins for Kristy McNichol, Sada Thompson and Meredith Baxter. Produced by the unlikely team of Aaron Spelling and Mike Nichols.
"Taxi" (1978-83): It's best remembered for the antics of Rev. Jim and Latka, but what made this TV's most moving sitcom was its willingness to end most episodes on down notes, each guaranteed to increase your next cabbie's tip by 5 percent.
"And the Band Played On" (1993): Long before it was fashionable, movie stars such as Richard Gere and Steve Martin lined up to be part of this searing adaptation of Randy Shilts' book about the beginning of America's AIDS epidemic.
"Relativity" (1996-97): Before bringing "Friday Night Lights" and "Parenthood" to the small screen, Jason Katims presented this touching Valentine's Day card, addressed to anyone who's ever felt the pains and the joys of an unexpected infatuation. Kimberly Williams-Paisley, fresh off the "Father of the Bride" flicks, played one of the moon-eyed lovers.
"The Big C" (2010-13): The story of a Twin Cities schoolteacher diagnosed with terminal cancer wasn't actually filmed in the state, but Laura Linney certainly came across as one of us, suppressing her rage and fear under layers of Minnesota Nice as long as she could.
NEAL JUSTIN
