The producers were inspired to make this film in response to the large amount of fan mail the show received from France.
Chip Fields, who plays Louise, is Kim Fields' (Tootie) mother. She also plays Tooties' mom in future episodes.
This made-for-tv movie was released between the 3rd & 4th seasons. It aired on September 25, 1982, just 4 days before the 1st episode of season 4 aired, "Ain't Miss Beholden" on September 29, 1982.
Chronologically, this tv movie is between season 4 snd season 5 of the tv series.