Something About Amelia

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Something About Amelia is a 1984 American television drama film written by William Hanley and directed by Randa Haines. It stars Ted Danson, Glenn Close, Roxana Zal, and Missy Francis. The 100-minute movie aired on ABC on January 9, 1984.

What it’s about
Thirteen-year-old Amelia Bennett lives with her parents, Steven and Gail, and her sister Beth in a comfortable suburb. Over the past few years, Amelia has become withdrawn and her grades have dropped. She has been secretly sexually abused by her father, Steven. When Amelia starts dating a boy from her class, Steven becomes jealous and controlling. Amelia confides in her school guidance counselor, who tells Amelia’s mother. Gail initially refuses to believe it, and the counselor is asked to leave. The counselor then informs the police, and Amelia is put into protective custody with a social worker who takes her to a children’s home. Steven denies the accusations, and Gail must face the painful truth about her husband and their family. Beth also realizes she could have been the next target. The family’s life is forever changed as they confront the abuse.

Why it mattered
Something About Amelia was watched by a large audience and was one of the first major TV productions to address incest publicly.

Reception and awards
It was the week’s most-watched network program in the United States, with about 17.1 million viewers. The film received eight Emmy nominations and won three: Outstanding Drama/Comedy Special, Outstanding Supporting Actress (Roxana Zal), and Outstanding Writing (William Hanley). It also earned four Golden Globe nominations and won two: Best Miniseries or Television Film, and Best Actor (Ted Danson).