In the classic US sitcom Soap, there were two principal families that were at the center of all the drama and comedy. The show aired from 1977 to 1981 and was known for its satirical take on soap operas. The two families were the Tates and the Campbells, and their intertwined lives were the source of much of the show's humor and intrigue. The Tate family was headed by the wealthy Chester Tate, played by Robert Mandan. His wife Jessica Tate, played by Katherine Helmond, was the matriarch of the family and often found herself embroiled in various scandals and affairs. Their children, Billy and Corinne, added to the chaos with their own shenanigans and love interests. The Tate family was known for their opulent lifestyle and over-the-top personalities, making them a favorite among viewers. On the other side of the spectrum were the Campbells, a more down-to-earth family led by the level-headed Mary Campbell, played by Cathryn Damon. Her husband Burt, played by Richard Mulligan, was a bumbling but lovable character who often found himself in absurd situations. Their children, Jodie and Wendy, brought their own unique personalities to the mix, with Jodie being one of the first openly gay characters on television. The interactions between these two families provided the backbone of the show, with their constant misunderstandings and misadventures keeping viewers entertained week after week. The show was praised for its clever writing and strong ensemble cast, which included future stars like Billy Crystal and Ted Wass. If you're interested in learning more about Soap and its two principal families, there are plenty of resources available online. You can watch episodes of the show on streaming platforms like Hulu or purchase DVDs of the complete series. Additionally, there are numerous articles and interviews with the cast and creators that provide insight into the making of the show and its lasting impact on television. Overall, Soap was a groundbreaking sitcom that pushed the boundaries of what was acceptable on television at the time. Its two principal families, the Tates and the Campbells, remain iconic to this day for their humor and humanity.

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