For those who grew up in the 1980s, the words “Sit Ubu Sit. Good dog” were as familiar as any television catchphrase. They were the closing tag on some of the most beloved shows of the era, including Family Ties, Spin City, and Brooklyn Bridge. But where did this sign-off come from, and who was Ubu?
The answer lies with Gary David Goldberg, the late television producer and writer who created some of the most iconic shows of the 1980s and 1990s. Goldberg was also a dog lover, and his faithful companion was a black Labrador Retriever named Ubu Roi.
Ubu was named after the 1896 play Ubu Roi by French writer Alfred Jarry, which is considered a precursor to the Theatre of the Absurd. Goldberg was drawn to the play’s irreverent humor and the character of Ubu, a buffoonish and tyrannical ruler who embodies the worst aspects of human nature.
Goldberg and Ubu were inseparable, and the dog accompanied his owner on his travels and adventures. When Goldberg founded his production company, he named it Ubu Productions in honor of his faithful companion.
The sign-off “Sit Ubu Sit. Good dog” was a way for Goldberg to pay tribute to his beloved pet and to acknowledge the role that dogs play in our lives. It became a trademark of Ubu Productions and was used on many of the company’s television shows.
Ubu himself became a minor celebrity, appearing on talk shows and in magazine articles alongside his famous owner. Sadly, Ubu passed away in 1984, but his legacy lives on through the iconic sign-off that bears his name.
Sit Ubu Sit is more than just a television catchphrase. It is a tribute to a beloved pet and a reminder of the important role that dogs play in our lives. Whether you grew up watching Family Ties or have never heard the phrase before, it is a testament to the enduring bond beween humans and their canine companions.
What TV Show Ended With Sit Ubu?
The TV show that ended with the phrase “Sit Ubu, Sit” was Family Ties, which aired from 1982 to 1989. The phrase was used as part of the end credits and was accompanied by a bark from the family’s pet dog, Ubu. The production company behind Family Ties was Ubu Productions, which was founded by Gary David Goldberg. Goldberg also produced other popular TV shows, including Brooklyn Bridge and Spin City.
Who Says Sit Ubu Sit Good Dog?
The phrase “Sit Ubu Sit, Good dog!” was originally said by Goldberg himself. It was a famous catchphrase from the television series “Family Ties” which aired from 1982 to 1989. Along with the picture of the mascot dog, the phrase was often used to end the show and was accompanied by the sound of a bark. The dog was named after a play called “Ubu Roi” by Alfred Jarry, which is considered a precursor to the Theatre of the Absurd. Ubu the dog passed away in 1984.
Where Did The Phrase Sit Boo Boo Sit Come From?
The phrase “Sit boo boo sit” actually originated from the television production company, MTM Enterprises, whih was founded by Mary Tyler Moore and her then-husband Grant Tinker. It was used as a sign-off tag for their television shows in the 1980s, specifically for the sitcom “Family Ties.” The phrase was accompanied by a graphic of a black and white border collie named “Boo” who would bark three times at the end of the tag. The phrase became popular and was later referenced in other TV shows and movies. However, it is important to note that this phrase is often confused with the similar phrase “Sit, Ubu, sit,” which was used as a sign-off tag by Gary David Goldberg, the creator of the TV show “Family Ties.” This phrase was a nod to his dog Ubu Roi and was accompanied by a bark from the dog.
What Shows Were Ubu Productions Produce?
Ubu Productions, a television production company founded by Gary David Goldberg, has produced several popular shows over the years. Some of the notable TV shows produced by Ubu Productions are “Family Ties,” a comedy-drama family TV series that aired from 1982 to 1989, “Spin City,” a comedy series that ran from 1996 to 2002, and “Day by Day,” a comedy series that aired in 1988 and 1989.
Other Ubu Productions include the romantic comedy film “Must Love Dogs” released in 2005, and the comedy-drama film “Bye Bye Love” released in 1995. Additionally, Ubu Productions was involved in producing the TV series “Dad” in 1989, “Duet” whch aired from 1987 to 1989, and “Sara” which aired in 1985.
It is worth noting that Ubu Productions has had a long and successful history in the entertainment industry, with many of their productions receiving critical acclaim and commercial success.
Conclusion
“Sit, Ubu, Sit. Good dog!” was a memorable tagline used by Gary David Goldberg on his television productions, including the popular 80s sitcom Family Ties. The tagline was a tribute to his beloved Labrador retriever, Ubu Roi, who had accompanied him on many adventures throughout his life. Ubu Productions, the company founded by Goldberg, went on to produce several successful television shows, including Spin City and Brooklyn Bridge. The use of the tagline was a unique and personal touch that added to the charm of Goldberg’s productions and is still remembered fondly by fans of his work. the legacy of “Sit, Ubu, Sit. Good dog!” is a testament to the enduring bond betwen humans and their furry companions.
