Though slow to start , the series eventually became a ratings hit .
Though slow to start , the series eventually became one of the longest - running American primetime dramas ever , lasting for a total of 14 seasons from 1979 - 1993 .
Though slow to start , the series eventually became a ratings hit and became one of the longest - running American primetime dramas ever , lasting for a total of 14 seasons from 1979 - 1993 .