Spotlight reveals flaws in star of reality show
By: ADRIENNE A. AGUIRRE - Staff Writer | ∞
Poway resident Richard Sadler
POWAY ---- An A&E Network reality series scheduled to premiere Monday night called "Family Plots" is about life and death at a family-run mortuary in Poway.
What the producers apparently didn't know is that one of its stars is working without a proper state license and has some skeletons in his closet.
Poway-Bernardo Mortuary manager Richard Sadler, 57, of Poway has continuously held a state funeral director's license since 1999, but it expired in January and the state licensing bureau is not renewing it until outstanding citations are resolved.
To work as the manager of a mortuary, Sadler is required to hold a valid funeral directors license, said Rick Lopes, spokesman for the Department of Consumer Affairs.
In January 2003, Sadler was cited for operating a separate business called San Diego Mortuary Services that was not licensed, and using the Poway-Bernardo Mortuary license number in advertisements for that other business, Lopes said.
Sadler was also cited for unprofessional conduct because of his failure to cooperate with the investigation. The fines are $2,002.
"The renewal is being held until he pays the fines," Lopes said Thursday.
Sadler said that he was not aware of the problem, but Lopes said Sadler was notified and given the chance to appeal, but did not.
"I have no knowledge of any of that," Sadler said Thursday. "I swear to God. Why didn't they send me a letter about that?"
Aside from his current problems, Sadler has a history of legal problems that date back more than two decades. He has been convicted of two felonies: grand theft in 1986 and embezzlement in 1995 that sent him to Pelican Bay State Prison with a sentence of 16 months.
When asked Thursday about those convictions, he said he learned his lesson in prison and has turned his life around.
"I had a lot of time to evaluate, you know, my life and what I did wrong and what I wanted it to be," Sadler said. He said that today he lives quietly in Poway and spends his time working at a business he loves, attending church and being active in community activities.
"Over the years I have done a lot of things, I mean, some of it's good, some of it's bad," Sadler said. "I'm not proud of it, but I've contributed a lot. I've given my pound of flesh."
A&E spokesman Michael Feeney said Thursday that the network was not aware of Sadler's criminal history but declined to comment further.
The seven-episode series follows the Wissmiller family ---- father Chuck and adult daughters Shonna, Melissa and Emily Wissmiller ---- who work at the funeral home on Poway Road.
Sadler is identified as "the boss" on the series' first episode.
Hybrid Films, the production company that filmed the show, held an open audition and filmed two finalists. A&E picked the Wissmillers for the series because they were "utterly compelling," according to a network statement in December.
Sadler said the embezzlement and fraud convictions stemmed from the fact that he was scrambling for money to pay for medical treatments for his son, who suffered for years with a kidney disease that was not covered by insurance. According to state records, Sadler's son died last year at the age of 24. Sadler said his son died of kidney failure.
The first conviction Sadler faced was in 1986, when he was given five years' probation for grand theft related to an Alameda mortuary where he was president, according to court documents. After the probation period ended and he had paid $30,000 in restitution, he petitioned the court to have the felony reclassified as a misdemeanor, a request that was granted, documents show.
The 1995 conviction for embezzlement stemmed from the sale of an airplane in Concord, said U.S. Attorney McGregor Scott, who was the prosecuting attorney at the time.
Sadler sold an airplane to a business partner for $100,000 but the plane was never produced. Scott said from what he remembers of the case, the plane did not exist at all.
Sadler said Thursday that he eventually repaid the $100,000 in addition to serving time in prison.
"I just kept paying and paying," he said Thursday.
In 1992, Sadler again faced legal and financial troubles.
To much hoopla, according to newspaper accounts at the time, Sadler and some partners opened the Central California Horseman's Complex in Lodi, attempting to purchase property and a building for $2.3 million, though the partners were never able to make payments on the lease-purchase agreement.
According to Lodi police reports, Sadler took investments of up to $20,000 from a dozen people in exchange for stock certificates and a seat on the company's board of directors. Less than two months later, the business was abruptly shuttered and Sadler moved out during the night without notifying shareholders.
The incidents resulted in civil suits, but no criminal prosecution. The police report noted that Sadler had sold stock certificates without the proper state license, and collateral he put up for one shareholder's loan was property Sadler did not actually own.
According to newspaper accounts at the time, the district attorney said the county did not have the funds to prosecute white collar crime, so a criminal case was not pursued.
On Thursday, Sadler said he leads a different, and better, life in Poway. Sadler had lost his funeral director's license in 1995 because of his embezzlement conviction. He persuaded state officials to reinstate it in 1999.
Sadler is a member of the Poway Chamber of Commerce and has been a member of the Poway Valley Riders Association for two years.
Association Vice President Nancy Kirchhofer said Sadler has been a valued member of the organization.
"And he was a major sponsor of the Poway Valley Riders event last year," she noted.
Asked whether he feels that he has made restitution to those he may have hurt in the past, Sadler said he has "made peace with all those people."
"You can't discount someone's feelings. ... I think the facts refute it," he said. "If I've done anything to hurt anybody, I'm mortally sorry."
Contact staff writer Adrienne A. Aguirre at (760) 740-3526 or aaguirre@nctimes.com.
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Monica wrote on Nov 17, 2005 11:59 AM:I really admire Rick for what loses he has had in his life and the care and compassion that he shows when he was speaking of his only son's death it really tugged at my heart strings. I have had several miscarriages and was not able to bury my twins who I was 5 months along with. I know I will see them all in the next life. I recently lost my mom who was my best friend and we had fights sometimes like Chuck gets into with his girls. But when it all came down to it I look the most like my mom and so my daddy is very protective of me with all my failed marriages. I know I would love to go out with Rick and I would like to help him get over Melissa. Rick is a character but I know he would have fun here with me and my family. Chuck needs to be hosed down sometimes. Thank heavens he has his wonderful furry cat to give love and attention to. I know I got into it with the funeral directors because they didn't put lipstick on my mom the way she wore it even when she was in the hospital. Well I would lvoe to hear back from Rick if he would like to get to know me. I am just as feminine and compassionate as Melissa. Well hopefully he can move on and find true love. I think that is what we all are looking for. Thanks for giving us this show and showing all that has to go into it. Sincerely, Monica in Utah
Colleen Johnson wrote on Nov 17, 2005 12:18 PM:I really dont care about the background of Rick. All I know is that when my time comes I hope a real family owned business takes the care and the "realness" that is potrayed in this little flick from A&E. Keep it up and dont let the dirt of the past get you down.
Brandy wrote on Dec 8, 2005 10:21 PM:I really love this show. I wait every week just to see what's going to happen on the show. I don't care about Rick's past because no one is perfect. Sometimes we do what we got to do to survive. I love Chuck because his off the hook!! And you got to love the MOM for putting up with Chuck...The girls are great. I hope the show is around for years. I love the way Shonna cares for the dead with respect. I always care for my family members that pass by doing their make-up and hair. So it's good to see how carefull she is..Good Job Shonna. Hope to see more of you guy's...Love, Brandy from El Monte, Ca
Judy wrote on Dec 11, 2005 6:03 PM:Is the show going to be renewed... I who live in Canada can no longer find it? Thank You
Kelly wrote on Dec 12, 2005 9:10 AM:What happened to this show?? I can't even find the re-runs anymore... What's up?
Nora wrote on Dec 30, 2005 11:27 PM:The show is great and very entertaining, the past problems that Rick had, should not have any reflection on the shows ratings, or on him at present. I have been looking for the show recently and am very upset that it has not been on, I really look forward to watching it, and have seen very episode. When do you plan to air new episodes? Bring the family of Poway back, they are all great and Chuck is hilarious, I love him. I also like Shana, and admire her for her devotion and hard work. Melissa and Emily are great. I enjoy the whole crew, I would love to meet the cast and spend a day with them and have some fun in the sun. Bring them back.
Carla wrote on Dec 31, 2005 11:27 PM:My husband and I never miss Family Plots. The Wissmiller family has become a part of our family. Rick's past should not have anything to do with the show. Chuck just makes the show a real family affair. The girls are great! All three of the other members of the mortuary impart wonderful middle class ideals and humor. Since it is possible that Rick has truly reformed, please bring the show back. We love all of them.
Adrienne wrote on Jan 3, 2006 7:41 AM:Wish this show would continue- we love watching Chuck and his cat, and adore Shonna for her straightforward, delightful personality. I hope all the best for the new year for the whole cast.
adaora wrote on Jan 3, 2006 10:49 AM:i lovvveeee this show. i dont care about rick and his past life. so long as he is reformed, ots okay. i want the wismiller family back. i love mellisa and emily. a&e, please bring family plots back.
Audrey wrote on Jan 3, 2006 1:08 PM:I love this show! It is funny,entertaining and I hope A&E bring it back. It would be ashame if they didn't Audrey in Ohio
Judy wrote on Jan 5, 2006 8:23 PM:I absolutely love Family Plots. I have watched every episode and I am looking forward to new ones. I hope A&E will bring the show back. I feel like I know these people - as crazy as that sounds. I would love to know if Rick and Melissa ever got back together and if Chuck has ever found love.
Patti wrote on Jan 6, 2006 2:41 PM:I just love Family Plots. My two favorite shows were Nero Wolfe and Family Plots. A&E took them both off. Sunday evenings are usually a drag because we have to get up and go to work on Monday. With Family Plots to look forward to, Sunday evenings became my favorite evening of the week. Come on, A&E, bring this show back. Just love Chuck.
becky wrote on Jan 8, 2006 8:08 PM:i love this show to death..it was sort of an inspiration to me to return to work the next day (monday)....i love the cast...and all their drama....please bring them back...this show is definitely a hit in my book....
Cindy wrote on Jan 11, 2006 7:49 PM:I have been searching every Sunday night for my favorite show...Family Plots...I did not know that it had been canceled until I decided to get on the computer and find out what was wrong. This makes me soooooo sad, I LOVE LOVE LOVE this show and so does everybody else in my family !!!!! I wish they could make it come bake on !!!!!Love all of "the family" and miss seeing them !
LINDSEY wrote on Jan 13, 2006 12:30 PM:AFTER WATCHING ONE EPISODE OF FAMILY PLOTS I WAS HOOKED. IT'S NICE TO SEE A REALITY SHOW THAT'S ABOUT SOMETHING ELSE BESIDES BEAUTY QUEENS... NOT THAT THE 'GIRLS' AREN'T BEAUTIFUL. WHAT'S GOING ON WITH THIS SHOW? WAS IT TAKEN OFF THE AIR? I MISS IT AND WISH IT WOULD COME BACK.
Miranda wrote on Jan 13, 2006 8:21 PM:I truly loved the realism of the show. I was also wondering where it went, I watched it all the time. D'ont we all have a past? I love each and every cast member on the show. Please come back!!
Jennifer wrote on Jan 15, 2006 10:25 AM:Please bring back the show. Everyone has a past, I do, you do, everyone. Only God can judge Rick. I hate people down here on this earth who take it upon themselves to play God. The show had great ratings. I don't believe for a second that Ricks past had any bearing on what kind of show it was and how good it was!!!!! I truly enjoyed it and your crazy if you don't bring back Chuck and the girls, Rick and everyone else too. It'll be A and E's ass that'll get burned and they'll have noone to thank but themselves.
Beth wrote on Jan 17, 2006 7:39 AM:Oh my gosh, bring back the show! I lost my father this past May due to cancer and Chuck so reminds me of my Dad and all his quirkiness! They are such a real group of people, something you don't see often on tv. Love the drama of the girls (I too have 2 sisters!, Chuck's tenderheartedness (love the cat episodes!)and overall silliness that goes on in their place of work! Bring it back! Love you guys! Beth
Bob wrote on Jan 17, 2006 1:25 PM:I sure would like to see this show brought back. It is a real show about real people, providing a service that has been a mystery to many for many years. It shows the side of life that many people do not know or understand. And the compassion that is shown, even in the face of family struggles is refreshing!
Amanda wrote on Jan 18, 2006 6:40 PM:I am in the process of going to school for funeral Services and i absolutely LOVE this show. It gives me more of an insight of how it really is working out in the field. I love Shonna! i too want to be an embalmer and she is such an inspiration to me. Anyways it breaks my heart that you have taken this show off the air! It was a good educational show for those of us who are going into the funeral industry.
Kathy wrote on Jan 22, 2006 4:42 PM:I would love to see the show back on the air. I work in a Funeral Home and it really hits' "home." Who cares about Rick, he's not the star of the show anyway. I just LOVE Shona, she's a trip!
Jeannie wrote on Jan 23, 2006 6:48 AM:Please bring this show back! I looked forward to watching this show every single week. I even watch the re-runs. There are not many shows on TV that I can say that about. It is very entertaining. I hope to see it on the air again soon!
Cindy wrote on Jan 24, 2006 1:44 PM:Please bring this show back on the air!!! Rick's personal life should not be anybody else's business but Rick's. It should not be up for public view. I love this show. I am in the medical field and I was a faithful viewer. I had been wondering why the show wasn't on and I thought they were on shooting hiatus. Please do what you can to get the show back on the air. Sincerely, Cindy in California
Tracy wrote on Jan 26, 2006 7:55 AM:Family Plots... Boy do I love Family Plots! Please bring Family Plots back. I am a faithful viewer of this show. I have never missed an episode and I even watch the re-runs.
Jean wrote on Jan 28, 2006 4:57 PM:I was wondering why the show hadn't been on. I am a Canadian lady, who really does enjoy the different personalities of everyone on the show. Its humourous, and yet at times very compelling. I do hope it will come back on. Otherwise, how will I know what is going on with Chuck, Rick, John, Shonna, Missy and Emily and others!!?? In a way, its like spending an hour with old friends. Please bring it Back.!!!!
Carolyn wrote on Jan 29, 2006 12:40 PM:Family Plots is one of my favorite shows. I am sorry to say but I very seldom watched A@E until Family Pl,ots and The Bounty Hunter began. Please keep Family Plots, Thanks
Lorraine wrote on Jan 29, 2006 7:13 PM:I watch very few television shows on a regular basis. However, "Family Plots" was one that I enjoyed every week, including the re-runs. It's a show where everyone "tells it like it is" and doesn't pull any punches. They may have their personal battles, but when the chips are down they are there for each other. I admire Shonna and the wonderful dedication to her work, and all the members of the cast are so great in their own ways at comforting people who have lost love ones. Come on, A & E! Give us a break. Put "Family Plots" back on the air.
TigerH wrote on Feb 4, 2006 8:39 AM:I am a fan of Family Plots. I love all of the characters on the show. I try to see ever episode or record it for later viewing. Please keep this program on A@E. I eagerly await episode 3. Thanks
Sandy wrote on Feb 7, 2006 2:26 PM:I like the reality of family plots....just wish daddy CHUCK would get over his mid life crisis. He acts like he would be a great catch ! NOT !! ARF ARF !! Please get rid of daddy and replace him with Mama....She would be great to have on the show on a regular basis.
Gabriel wrote on Feb 7, 2006 11:14 PM:We LOVE Family Plots!!! PLEASE keep it going!! We really enjoy the ongoing family drama of the Wissmiller Family. John and Chuck are so funny to watch and the girls are so cool! and easy on the eyes. We really enjoy seeing this family interact, even if they never set foot in the mortuary. Shonna, You are the best! All the best, Gabriel in North Carolina
Elizabeth wrote on Feb 9, 2006 6:36 PM:I recently heard that Family Plots was canceled. I was hoping it wasn't true. I love this show and look forward to watching it every week. My sister and I get on the phone and watch it together and love it. Please, please keep Family Plots on the air - There is a BIG fan basis.
arlene dionne wrote on Feb 12, 2006 9:04 PM:I am very p.o'd that without a thought to the Family Plots fan base A&E just arbitrarily throws a switch and the show disappears!! I never missed a show and loved all the participants. Here I am looking and wondering what's going on, where it went and I have to get on the internet to find out!! YOU MUST RENEW THIS SHOW!!! That strong woman Shonna is my vav because she doesn't take any s--t and keeps the place moving but if it weren't for the others and their struggles, joys & disappointments there wouldn't be a show. We don't watch it because it's different but because we can see so much of our own family dynamics being played out before our eyes. How dare you take away something that we looked forward to enjoying so much?! Aren't you concerned with ratings? When Sunday evening came around I settled in to visit Chuck, Emily, Missy, John, Shonna,David,Rick & sometimes Susan. It was like spending time with a segment of ones own dysfunctional family which was very refreshing because it was never a matter of "look how wonderfully perfect we are and alls right with the world." They have the same blemishes as the rest of us and struggle to find a balance, just like us!! Now I have to go searching for them in re-runs on other channels. You ask the viewing audience to tune in to your channel, A&E, because we all know that ratings are very important when it comes to sponsorship dollars and remaining high in the sponsor's pool of dollars means attracting a high concentration of viewership. With that in mind how can you take away one of the most popular shows in your roster without warning or explanation and anger many, many veiwers. HOW?!! I WANT TO KNOW WHY AND I WANT FAMILY PLOTS BACK ON THE AIR!!!!!!!! If A&E cannot see the error of their ways then I truly want to see another channel pick up the show where they will inherit thousands of viewers!
Joan wrote on Feb 14, 2006 1:52 PM:I absolutely love the show. Shonna is my favorite, she is not only beautiful, but, wise, in control, funny, kind, loving and gifted. I love everyone in the show except Melissa. I cannot stand her attitute towards Rick and everyone else for that matter. Rick is gorgeous...va va voom!!! Chuck is hilarious, good looking and yummy.... Emily is pretty. Love them all.... Laugh so hard....very entertaining.....
Elizabeth wrote on Feb 21, 2006 9:41 PM:I love family plots. It is the only show on A@E I look forward to watchng. Please keep it on the air! I am a devoted fan to this family
Dana from KS wrote on Feb 28, 2006 7:43 AM:Please bring the show back. I've gotten all my reality-show hating friends and family addicted to this show. I absolutely love the real life emotions and the show deals with things that we all have to deal with in our lives. Whatever Rick's background, he has never claimed to be perfect. PLEASE BRING IT BACK!!!!!!!!
Patti wrote on Mar 1, 2006 8:35 AM:PLEASE keep this show on!
Josh wrote on Mar 2, 2006 4:38 PM:Familiy Plots is my favorite and only show i love to watch on a and e
Tina wrote on Mar 6, 2006 9:15 AM:Please bring back Family plots. My whole family really looked forward to watching this show every Sunday. What happened to Rick is in the past, let it go. I have done a few things in my past that I am not too proud of, but I know they were wrong, learned from them and have moved on. When someone becomes famous, there always seems to be some people who come out of the closet to bring them down with all of the bad they have done, well its time to look at the good things now. This show rocks, and I love all of the people on it. Thy can all move in with me and we'll do are own show. Come to New hampshire, you'll all fit in!
CarolZ wrote on Mar 7, 2006 7:06 AM:I know that we all want the return of Family Plots for all different reasons....my reason is simple. I happened to see an episode of Family Plots this past year, only a month after my sister was murdered. I was so depressed (and I still am), however, after leaving her body in the hands of a mortician in Nevada, I felt this sense of comfort, after seeing how caring the Poway employees are with the deceased and the families that go through the grief. It just felt good. It felt good to see what happens when you walk out of the mortuary door, where only one hour earlier, you were strangers. I know now, that the people in this business are definately special, and caring...and let's face it, will ultimately be the last stop for all of us. This television show, gave me something to smile about, in such a depressing time. Who cares what Rick did in his past....as long as things are on the up and up now, and so many people seek the mortuary out. He gave me something that I will never forget, and will be forever grateful for; He gave me the idea to have my beautiful sister's 'cremains' or ashes turned into a diamond. What better way to memorialize a loved one, than to wear them in a piece of jewelry. Thank you Poway and 'Family Plots'...this is one viewer that you quite possibly saved from going into a deep deep depression. I miss my sister deeply, and will very much so miss Family Plots. This family showed so many of us that death touches each of us differently, and a little humor goes a long long way during such a sad time. What can us viewers do to bring the show back??? Carol in Concord CA
amanda wrote on Mar 9, 2006 2:31 PM:okay can we please bring back this show?!
autumn wrote on Mar 12, 2006 10:14 AM:I agree with the last post, Bring back this show. It serves as a public service to allow us an inside peek to what many of us fear. Shauna is so compasionate and caring. So what if Rick's a jerk. I already knew that!
marian wrote on Mar 14, 2006 1:31 PM:i am into watching reruns of family plots. please bring the show back on. i love chuck and if i were ten years younger i would email him for a date. rick is not the only jerk on the show. i think shonna treats her father rather badly. you only get one dad and you should forget the past and enjoy him. BRING THE SHOW BACK.
Annie wrote on Mar 19, 2006 5:36 PM:I have been not-so-patiently waiting for the next series of episodes. I don't really care what Rick has or has not "done"---I care about watching this show. I too, have told several friends to watch it now it seems to have disappeared. Let's get it BACK ON the air---PLEASE!!!!
LARAE wrote on Mar 21, 2006 11:11 AM:SHONNA IS WHAT THE SHOW IS ABOUT"SHE IS WARM AND JUST GREAT"WE ALL KNEW THE OWNER WAS A JERK,BRING IT BACK PLEASE.
Judy wrote on Mar 30, 2006 8:33 PM:A&E, please bring back the 'FAMILY PLOTS' show. Shonna; you GO Girl! Chuck; bad ass, Emily Missy; best of luck in your new life as single Mom, John; love your compassion for clients and especially David; I love the NERD in David. GET RID of RICK!! and bring back the show! Rick is the Simon Cowell of Family Plots 'the guy you love to hate'.
Dawn wrote on Apr 3, 2006 12:11 PM:I love this show and am so disappointed to hear that it is cancelled. Rick has always been a jerk and I often wondered just what was his job at that place? All I ever so him do was eat lunch and do the crossword puzzles!! Chuck is icky and I'm not surprised he has such an awful relationship with his daughters. Melissa, I wouldn't give you a dime for nor David for that matter but Shonna and Emily and especially John are wonderful people. I am so surprised that John is divorced, he is one who seems like a great catch. Wish A&E would bring this show back, it is sorely missed!
Diane wrote on Apr 4, 2006 3:24 PM:Would love to see the show come back. Rick is a pathetic jerk but I love the rest of 'em. Shonna and John are my favorites. It's nice to be exposed to and see the inner workings of a real mortuary and not just the employees' relationships. Also, everyone is respectful of the deceased and people out there should have a little exposure of what a mortuary is like. We'll all be passing through one day.
Joan wrote on Apr 6, 2006 6:46 AM:Just got to say again.....LOVE THIS SHOW.... WHAT ENTERTAINMENT!!!! I don't care about Rick's past....we all have ghost in our closet.... The show is soooo funny.... I love Shonna...she is absolutely the BEST... Chuck is just too funny.... Rick is gorgeous... Emily is pretty... John is handsome and has a cute personallity... Melissa? Well, you can kick her off for all I care....she thinks she is just tooooo good...she is a snob.....
LINDA wrote on Apr 8, 2006 5:13 AM:WE'RE STILL WAITING . . . . . . WAITING . . . . . WAITING . . . . .
Carolyn F from Lou.Ky wrote on Apr 13, 2006 7:26 PM:Where has my favorite show gone....A&E, You have to renew this show. This is a great show with a large fanbase. Why in the world would you just turn it off without a word of if it will even come back on. I think its the best show (besides) Another 48 hrs on your program. GET IT BACK!!!!!!
Angee wrote on Apr 13, 2006 7:29 PM:This show is great!!! Besides dont we ALL have something in our past we are not so happy about. Past is Past. It's a great show with a large fanbase. WE WANT IT BACK!!!
Ron wrote on Apr 21, 2006 6:21 AM:Love the show,we need more episodes!!!! My wife and I have never missed an episode.
Dot in California wrote on Apr 25, 2006 2:35 PM:We don't care about Rick and his problems, put the Weismiller family members back on the air, they were the "real star's"...they were so natural
Vee - Dayton, OH wrote on Apr 30, 2006 6:16 PM:I'm not exactly sure what attracted me to this show, but I looked forward to it every week and I truly miss it now. Each week we got a glimpse into this quirky, wonderful, dysfunctional family. We got to know them and now I find myself wondering what is happening in their lives. Rick -- in real life people do make mistakes -- he paid for them and went on with his life. Please Please Please!!!! Bring them back..... we miss them!!
James, Castaic, CA wrote on May 3, 2006 1:41 AM:"Family Plots" is one of my favorite show and is the ONLY REASON I watch A&E TV. F.P. got especially good in its 2nd season, covering the family dynamics with more introspection. One particular episode I enjoyed was the episode where they interviewed a young guy who then apprenticed with Shonna for a short time -- I think the episode was "Season 2, Episode 14: Baptism by Fire". Wow! Was that a good one! Others were among my favorites, too, but my absolute favs were "Season 2, Episode 24: Something's Gotta Give" and "Season 2, Episode 25: Curb Your Anger". Shonna was, indeed, the "star". Face it: there would be no "Family Plots" without her. And she's so dang loveable! -- James, Castaic, CA
Mavis wrote on May 9, 2006 4:36 AM:I absolutely love Family Plots and couldn't wait for Sunday to roll around to tune in once again. Even got my husband hooked. PLEASE BRING THIS SHOW BACK. I love these people! It's the only reality show that I watched. I have been waiting for the new episodes to start....didn't know the show had been cancelled. :(((
Elizabeth wrote on May 11, 2006 6:35 AM:Hello, This is an awesome show! It's been the only reason I tune on to A&E TV. I have a personal question I would love to ask Shonna and Rick about the passing of my daughter who was only 14 mos and 26 days old. She has been buried a long while now but, I have trouble with her location as the plot she is in is own by my ex family. I hope someday I can ask what really bothers me. Kepp the show on! Elizabeth
Denice wrote on May 11, 2006 12:02 PM:Bravo to everyone on the Family Plots! No one can deny that we all relate to someone/everyone at Poway Bernardo Funeral Home - additionally, what an opportunity to view first-hand one of the most difficult and unknowing experiences of one's life - death...that all of us will eventionally go through. With this cast of amazingly bright, witty and entertaining "real-life" people, just like us - what's not to like? No one is immune to life issues, mistakes, regrets...including their clientiele...that's life...and death! I say...."Bring on the Show"!
Joel wrote on May 17, 2006 1:43 PM:I am a huge fan in NY and miss the show. So today I called the mortuary and spoke with "Mary". She said the show is presently cancelled, but could be brought back if enough people write to the network. So get the pens out. I inquired if everyone from the show was well, and she said yes, and Rick shouted hello. Lot's of fun, this show. Wish it were still on.
Kris wrote on May 20, 2006 12:06 PM:I just love Family Plots. I just recieved the first season on dvd.. Can't get enough of it. Your problems are real life problems not like the Brady Bunch were everything's fixed in 30 min. I just love Chuck and his cat.
Jeanne wrote on May 22, 2006 3:46 PM:Family plots is a great show! So what if Rick has a background. Everbody has skeletons in their closet. I really, really miss watching this show and hope A & E would consider bringing it back. The cast of Family Plots are normal people that enjoy there work. The sisters on the show are awesome women!! PLEASE BRING IT BACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Jennifer wrote on May 29, 2006 9:29 AM:...OK, I must admit I became hooked on this show watching the re-runs on A&E on Tuesday mornings. For some strange reason, I feel compelled to continue watching the antics of this family run business. (Perhaps, it's because I own one myself? Who knows.) Is there any chance of reinstating this show? Especially if it was cancelled for reasons other than ratings. I loved it and I can see I wasn't alone.
SHERRY wrote on May 30, 2006 3:26 PM:HOW DO WE FIND OUT IF FAMILY PLOTS WILL BE BACK. ITS A FANTASTIC SHOW AND YOU CAN REALLY GET INVOLVED WITH THE CHARACTERS. I HONESTLY LIKE ALL OF THEM ON THE SHOW WHICH IS THE FIRST TIME THAT HAS HAPPENED FOR ME ON ANY SHOW. SHONNA EXPECIALLY IS FACINATING. PLEASE BRING THEM BACK
DOROTHY wrote on Jun 4, 2006 9:02 PM:IREALLY WOULD LIKE FAMILY PLOTS BACK ON.I TAPED MOST OF THE EPISODES AND WATCH THEM OVER & OVER . FAMILY PLOT SHOW IS A TERRIFIC REALITY SHOW.
BRANDEE wrote on Jun 10, 2006 12:29 PM:I LOST MY MOTHER FIVE YEARS AGO DUE TO LUNG CANCER AND IT WAS ONE OF THE MOST TRAMATIC THINGS I EVER HAD TO DEAL WITH. I WAS WATCHING TV ONE NIGHT AND FAMILY PLOTS CAME ON, I ALMOST TURNED THE CHANNEL BECAUSE, I THOUGHT IT WOULD BE TO HARD FOR ME TO WATCH THE INSIDE OF WHAT GOES REALLY GOES ON. THE TRUTH IS THE SHOW HELPED ME COPE WITH THE LOSS OF MY MOM. PLEASE BRING IT BACK!!!!!
Becky wrote on Jun 13, 2006 5:18 PM:Please bring back the "Family Plots" show. I particularly got stuck on the A&E channel just for the fact that I started watching that show. My best friend lives in Poway. We are such fans that when I would visit, it was kind of neat to drive right by the Poway Bernardo Mortuary and see the famous sign of the mortuary that we see on TV. Would always poke my head out to see if I could catch a glimpse of the drama of the Weismillers that would fold upon the small screen. We love that family. Bring them back!!!!
Dawn wrote on Jun 17, 2006 10:35 PM:Please continue with this show. This family is so real and most people can relate to the problems they work through. If I couldn't have my Wismillers fix, what would I do? These are real people with real problems who don't look like Barbie dolls, and really don't care what you think about them. They are inspiring, even though they certainly never set out to be icons. Please bring them back....
Dixie wrote on Jun 21, 2006 7:23 PM:PLEASE bring the show back. Love it and never missed an episode.
JACKIE wrote on Jun 22, 2006 4:23 AM:LOVED THIS SHOW. PLEASE BRING IT BACK.
Niki wrote on Jun 23, 2006 9:13 AM:My husband and I enjoyed watching Family Plots together... Chuck is a riot. The Weismiller family relationship problems are realistic and it's great to finally be able to relate to something on T.V. Please bring this show back on air so we can see what else happens in these people's lives..... loved this show.
Shirley wrote on Jun 27, 2006 7:37 AM:Ok, I just noticed I can't find one of my favortie shows, "Family Plots". I loved this show and wonder what has happen. If it has been cancelled, please bring it back. I am sick of all the good shows getting canceled and all the stupid, unhealthful shows stay on to keep warping our children's minds. I taped this show every week and enjoyed watching all that it offered to normal people in our daily lives. PLEASE BRING IT BACK!!!!
Marilynn wrote on Jul 1, 2006 8:56 PM:This was one of the best reality shows of these people
Michelle wrote on Jul 5, 2006 7:07 AM:This family became MY family every Sunday. Chuck reminds me SO MUCH of my own father. Please, Please bring the show back. Rick screwed up...so have our Presidents...
Carolyn wrote on Jul 5, 2006 5:13 PM:I really miss this show. Please bring it back. It was the best reality show on TV. My friends and I watched it every week without fail. Who cares about Rick's past or if Chuck's a little punch drunk - we love them anyway.
Janice wrote on Jul 9, 2006 2:35 PM:Family Plots was such a great show, and I want it reinstated. We, as viewers, had really grown attached to all the members of the family with all of their trials and tribulations. This show really shed light on the mysteries of what goes on in a funeral home, which otherwise, we would not have seen. PLEASE BRING IT BACK!
Jayne wrote on Jul 11, 2006 6:33 PM:Is there any way to let us know if and ever this show will ever return. We used to look at it 4pm every Tuesday on A&E and it is no longer there.
mindy wrote on Jul 13, 2006 9:27 PM:I'd like to be added to all the others who loved & miss Family Plots. I doublt anyone from A&E will see these comments. We should all go to their site & tell them. But ~ when I saw this article & comments, I figured it wouldn't hurt to add my 2 cents!
mindy wrote on Jul 13, 2006 9:29 PM:Love & MISS Family Plots. Please bring back!!
Tami wrote on Jul 18, 2006 11:10 PM:I really love family plots, I hope it continues, it was one of the best reality shows out there, also it should be an hour long...
Darrell wrote on Jul 22, 2006 6:03 AM:Bring the show back.
carl wrote on Jul 31, 2006 1:55 PM:LET ME GET THIS RIGHT,I THINK THE SHOW WAS CANCELED BECAUSE OF RICK'S PAST?, BUT A GANGSTERS DAUGHTER CAN HAVE A SHOW OF WHICH HER FATHER WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR KILLING (GOTTI)PEOPLE.
Linda wrote on Aug 1, 2006 2:48 PM:I LOVE this show-please bring it back
Gerrie wrote on Aug 1, 2006 5:59 PM:Just found out that Family PLots has been cancelled. Was one of my favorite shows. We need this kind of reality show on the air. These are real people with real problems going thru everday life trying to help others. Big mistake to lose this kind of show. Please bring Family Plots back on the air!
Debbie wrote on Aug 1, 2006 7:05 PM:I loved the show and really miss it. Please bring it back. The families were so real and a great reality show. PLEASE BRING IT BACK.
leslie wrote on Aug 4, 2006 5:05 PM:I just WISH I had had these people working on my Mom - they are professionals! I am a brand new fan of "Family Plots" as just having seen it on DVD. Shonna - you are the reason I am wanting to go to school to learn what you do - no longer morbid in my book!!! BRING THEM BACK!!!! Leslie
Kathi wrote on Aug 12, 2006 2:22 PM:I love the show and finally did some web searching to see why it was no longer on cable. Please bring it back. I made certain it was being recorded every week. I did not want to miss it, and watched the weekly tapings even if I had already seen them. It was a hit - bring it back!
Beverly wrote on Aug 12, 2006 5:48 PM:I too am missing family plots. I can not believe A&E would let such a great group of people go.
Marni wrote on Aug 17, 2006 1:27 PM:I am also missing this show, taped it regularly --- even the re-runs. I love this family and the others that worked at the mortuary in Poway. Please, please consider renewing this program --- it was entertaining as well as enlightening and showed such caring, loving individuals, along with the humor that they all possessed.
Kathy wrote on Aug 18, 2006 11:50 PM:I too loved this show, it was one of the highlights of my week. Does anybody know how we might get A&E to reconsider? I don't care about Rick's past, there's only on person in charge of judging people's and it's not any of us. I loved the whole family, they are a hoot!
Ellen wrote on Sep 17, 2006 6:50 PM:Please bring back "Family Plots!" Many of the new A&E shows are awful. "Family Jewels" the race car show and so many others are too boring to watch!!Please bring back our family!!!!
Penny wrote on Oct 2, 2006 9:33 PM:I have been waiting for Family Plots to come back this fall. Why would A&E take Family Plots one off and keep shows like inked, gotti, gene simmons, intervention, etc. Please put Family Plots back on and also keep Dog, City Confidential, and American Justice. These are the winners.
Michael wrote on Oct 10, 2006 8:07 AM: Personally i don't watch ANY reality based tv, but for some strange reason found Family Plots to be enthralling. At first i thought it was the "Morbid factor" involved but after only 2 episodes was really hooked by these character's, especially Chuck & Shonna. It has so much SUBSTANCE & ENTERTAINMENT to boot for a reality show. I cannot believe for the life of me why they cancelled it.
Bill wrote on Dec 18, 2006 8:40 AM:I miss Family Plots. Rick was an arse but everyone else was really cool. Can't wait for season 2 on dvd!
michael wrote on Feb 12, 2007 12:54 PM:I love this show too! It was very different and involving. The reason the show is off the air isn't because of Rick or anything about A&E cancelling it. All the people have left the mortuary and have other jobs or retired. The other people that are there aren't as interesting and the place has gone corporate so the show lost its 'family' so to speak. Too bad because it was very addictive.
Lori wrote on Oct 8, 2007 4:20 PM:I have almost worn out my Season 1 DVD of Family Plots. Please release a Season 2 DVD soon!! Bring a new season or reruns back to A&E. It was the BEST show they ever had on and we really miss it!!!
cindy wrote on May 13, 2008 10:25 PM:Dear A and E channel i will not watch your tv station until you bring back family plots ahow and dog the bounty hunter show i hope you rating go down big time you guys need to wake up and bring them back on give us a starting date for dog the hunter please some time this centurey would be nice and family plots hurry up A+E Now.
rob wrote on Jul 5, 2008 3:34 AM:help i could care less about his past its been my experience that most big buisseness owners are crooks they just line the right pockets and they all get to live the good life and pass judjement on others so dont point your fingers unless your in cout ! witch brings me to my question Ive only seen one episode it was the one where they had their sons ashes commpressed into dimonds that rocks and is my final wish to be done with my remains can someone please contact me with more information on this thank you
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