I grew up on mystery novels, and loved Rex Stout's Nero Wolfe from the moment I read my first of his books. This show is not that Nero Wolfe - it is a softer, more pleasant, and kinder one. William Conrad's Nero is not terse and rude enough and does not keep his cards as close to his chest, Lee Horsley's Archie does not get to show his intelligence as often as he should, etc. Etc. The mysteries are also muted and simplified.
However, I can love it for what it is. William Conrad was the first actor I saw portray Wolfe, and he will always be the way I visualize Wolfe in my head, beard or no. The actors are fun to watch, and it was clear they loved getting a chance to play this role.
For those who want to check it out for themselves, you can watch the entire series on the Internet Archive - just search the archive's media files for Nero Wolfe (1981).
However, I can love it for what it is. William Conrad was the first actor I saw portray Wolfe, and he will always be the way I visualize Wolfe in my head, beard or no. The actors are fun to watch, and it was clear they loved getting a chance to play this role.
For those who want to check it out for themselves, you can watch the entire series on the Internet Archive - just search the archive's media files for Nero Wolfe (1981).