MovieChat Forums > Trapper John, M.D. (1979) Discussion > Stanley is a sad character

Stanley is a sad character

posted 13 years ago by hunterofserenity-2
2 replies | jump to latest

It is very sad that the character Stanley Riverside II was made to be such a pathetic character. He is a good doctor and a good man, but he is completely dependent on his father. Stanley has to ask for his old man's opinion about everything. Talking about not being able to cut the apron strings. He is desperate for his father's approval.

Stanley needs to grow a pair.

[–] jarrodmcdonald-1 10 years ago

I agree-- Charles Siebert did wonders with what was often a one-dimensional role. The character of Dr. Riverside was not allowed to grow much or evolve, and he becomes more and more a buffoon for comic relief as the series goes on.

[–] coreycitn63 10 years ago

Stanley was a combination of Frank Burns and Winchester.