From Dallas to Cincinnati: How a Texas Stunt Became a Sitcom Legend

One of the most iconic lines ever uttered on television, hands down, has to be "As God is my witness.... I thought turkeys could fly." The line was said on the hit show WKRP in Cincinnati. That singular line has stood the test in time. Every year, when Thanksgiving rolls around, you'll see people sharing reels and YouTube video of the iconic TV moment.

However, here's something that you may not know: the episode was based on a real life incident. That incident happened right here in Texas.

The Texas Turkey Drop That Inspired One of TVs Greatest Movements

In the episode, the station manager, Mr. Carlson came up with a publicity stunt to give away turkeys to listeners for Thanksgiving.... by dropping them from a helicopter.  Well, in case you don't know, turkeys can't fly. And what ensued went into the annals of television history as one of the most famous episodes in sitcom history.

While on the surface, it might seem something written strictly for TV. But, the whole thing was based on a real life occurrence. According to show creator Hugh Wilson, the whole thing was based on someone he knew:

"Jerry Blum, who is the general manager of WQXI, told me that he had been fired from a Texas station for throwing turkeys out of a helicopter. And I said to Jerry, ‘You just won me an Emmy. That was based on a true story, and it was just hilarious. It was just as funny as it could be.”

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Allegedly, the real life event took place in Dallas in the 50s. Not EVERYTHING played out like they did on the show. Turkeys were tossed from a truck, not a helicopter. However, chaos did ensue and it eventually led to one of the greatest TV moments of all-time.

Where to Watch the WKRP Turkey Drop

Unlike most shows, it doesn't appear that "WKRP in Cincinnati" is streaming on Netflix or anything like that. Apple has some episodes available for purchase. So, does Amazon. However, thanks to the wonders of YouTube, there are plenty of clips available along with some full episodes for you to enjoy.

No matter what you do this Thanksgiving, just remember one thing: Turkeys can't fly.