Head Cases

Head Cases is an American primetime comedy-drama television program, best known as the first show cancelled for the 2005–2006 season. It was broadcast by FOX and premiered on September 14, 2005. It was cancelled after two episodes on September 22 after disastrous ratings and critical drubbing.

The program starred Chris O'Donnell as Jason Payne, who was a superstar attorney at a prestigious law firm until his career put a strain on his marriage. Eventually, Payne had a nervous breakdown and was sent to a "wellness center" where he recovered. Upon leaving the center, Payne's therapist "buddied him up" with another patient and lawyer, Russell Shultz (played by Adam Goldberg), who suffered from explosive disorder. As Payne's world continued to crumble around him, he found that his only friend seems to be Shultz. Ultimately, Payne and Shultz decided to open a law firm of their own.

O'Donnell, known more for his film work, was quoted in a TV Guide article about his reasons for trying a television series:

I'd been taking a break when this script kind of fell in my lap. I read it and loved it. It's a terrific character, plus I couldn't be more excited to work with the cast that's been put together.

I've got three kids, and my oldest is starting kindergarten, so the idea of being in one place was very appealing to me.

The program was created by Bill Chais, who along with Barry Josephson and Jeff Rake served as executive producers.