Weege’s exact quote was: 

“My specialty is being funny and substantial at the same time. I want people to watch a half hour and give a damn about it afterward.”

“Night Court” wasn’t exactly known for its touching moments and deeply human characters; indeed, the show is celebrated for its oddness and cartoon logic. Its human elements come not from the moments of introspection and sadness, but from relatable idiosyncrasies. Judge Harry Stone (Harry Anderson), for instance, worships Mel Torme. Dan Fielding (Larroquette) possesses a sleazy lasciviousness that, every once in a while, we can all relate to. Bull (Richard Moll) is a bit of a dimwit, but we appreciate his kindness and innocence.

Weege is, of course, relating his philosophy to shows like “Barney Miller” and “M*A*S*H,” two comedy shows that regularly look death in the face. “M*A*S*H” was about doctors curing the injured during the Korean War, and tragedy regularly befell its characters. Weege was one of the many masterminds who assured the careful, careful balance between comedy and tragedy on that show, making it one of the best TV shows of all time. Weege received four Emmy nominations in his life, one for “Barney Miller” and three for “Night Court.” 

“Night Court” was recently revived on NBC, with Larroquette returning as Dan Fielding. The new series is being sold as a continuation of the original, with Weege retaining sole created-by credit. The new series, however, was developed by Dan Rubin and star Melissa Rauch, who plays the daughter of Judge Harry Stone. Even 12 years after his death, Weege’s brusque, give-a-damn form of comedy lives on.