...how would you have changed the series? Would you have dropped the Cathy character? Figured how to give Natalie more of a role? I know Roz (Robyn Millan) and Monica (Kathy Garver) often took Cathy's role in the teen hangout scenes, could either of them been a strong enough character to be Patty's foil?

The identical cousins are too integral to the series concept to drop Cathy. Since they would have gone color they probably would have reduced the optical tricks even more, keeping them apart more and using the doubles for the back shot more.

Natalie gets some kind of job. Maybe she edits a local neighborhood paper and vies with Martin for scoops. Also they might delve more into Ross's life and relationships.

Patty and Richard decide to elope and Martin somehow foils it. After it's foiled they have a falling out and Patty looks for a new boyfriend.

The show wouldn't have changed a winning formula - the girl most likely would have graduated between seasons and gone off to a local college...still living at home.

To keep the costs down, I would agree with the switch to color we'd see less optical effects and more use of the double.

I think there could have been a 4th season filmed in color without the Cathy character. The identical cousins gimmick was starting to get tired and played out in the 3rd season anyway so a change was needed. It could have been written into the series that Cathy moved overseas to continue her education. A 4th season in color could have had episodes with Patty and her school friends, boyfriend Richard, and brother Ross could have been given more involvement in the episodes. And of course Patty's parents would have been in the mix also. Would have been fun. And with Cathy gone, a new theme song for the series would have been composed, probably something pop/rock n roll 1960's style. :cool:

I just think it ended at the right time, that is just my opinion

I did colorize the 3rd season opening. I'd like to think that it would have been used for season four in color. I've always wondered how the show would have looked in color so I took it upon myself to give it a go and colorized it.

https://youtu.be/OGv0mF1lPyQ

LOL Ross could have a long lost (Identical) cousin enter the show - Ross being younger would have allowed more high school themes

OR

Cathy & Patty could have gone to the same college - Like Sabrina The Teen Witch did

Patty's very likable persona could have allowed the show to continued - the entire cast was very good !