James Brolin, who played Dr. Stephen Kiley in the original series was not available to appear as he was starring in "Hotel" on ABC at the time. It is established in the film that Dr. Kiley is now working at a hospital in New York and is still married to Janet Blake (Pamela Hensley). A critical scene at the film's climax features a letter written by Dr. Kiley in support of Dr. Welby when he has to appear before a Review Board.
This reunion film was meant to serve as a backdoor pilot for a new series that would feature Darren McGavin and Morgan Stevens as a father-son team establishing their own family practice, and where Dr. Welby would provide some occasional wise counsel in a supporting role.
Final film of Elena Verdugo.