
"Sledge Hammer!" is a spoof on the tough rebel cop movies and dramas that were hitting their stride in the mid-1980s. Strongly influenced by "Dirty Harry," Sledge Hammer is a tough-talking, mirror-sunglasses-wearing detective. He would shoot a jaywalker as readily as he would a fleeing escaped convict -- and he seems happy to do it. His best friend is his pearl-handled, oversized .44 Magnum that he sleeps with and even talks to. Constantly suspended from the force, his case is usually solved and he is redeemed by his female partner.

When a number of babies at the maternity ward of a local hospital vanish, Hammer and Doreau (David Rasche, Anne-Marie Martin) investigate.

Sledge becomes a contestant on a game show to investigate the reigning champion's death. Guest: Peter Marshall.

Hammer is in danger when a woman gives him a delayed-action poison.

After Sledge (David Rasche) arrests the leader of a satanic cult, the followers storm the precinct. Mark Blankfield and Tom Henschel guest star.