
"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.
On a narcotics investigation, Sledge and Doreau, posing as newlyweds, get tipsy and are found asleep with arms entwined.
Sledge (David Rasche) is shocked to find that his best friend is engaged to his ex-wife. With Heather Lupton and Michael Kaufman.
Inspector Sledge Hammer is recalled from suspension to help locate the mayor's abducted daughter (Joanne Baron).
Sledge and partner Dori Doreau show a tough action news reporter what a typical day in the precinct is like.