I learned that in the opening of TAGS as originally presented, the sponsor comes up. (Post Cereal) after Opie throws a stone into the stream. The closing theme has Opie and Any returning from their fishing trip.

1.) Are these sequences on DVD?

2.) How many survived and are still in syndication?

3.) Was their any reason why the closing scene was changed to just a solid background?

Jack

1.) No. At least not "officially". I have seen a few of these sequences on VHS tapes released by Premiere Promotions in the late 80's - early 90's, though.

2.) None of the sequences are in the syndication prints as they specifically promoted Post products.

3.) They were removed and changed to a generic background because, in syndication, the show was no longer sponsored by Post.

I have the first three seasons, purchased separately, on DVD from Paramount.
The first season has no sponsor spots. The second and third seasons contain the original sponsor spots as special features.