Family (1976–1980)

Does anyone have the inside scoop on why Elayne Heilveil, the actress who played Nancy during the first six "mini series" episodes, was replaced by Meredith Baxter-Birney? Turns out it was a great move, as Meredith was far easier on the eyes and played the role beautifully, but I've always been curious. Also of note, Meredith only appeared in about every other episode...was that the producers' desire to depict her as having moved away from the family, or was it something in Meredith's contract? This show reflected my family so closely as I was about Buddy's age. The first two seasons (three, if you count the first six as a season) were fabulous. I guess you could say it jumped the shark with the addition of Quinn Cummings. I've noticed the house used for the exterior shots has appeared in several TV commercials lately.