Mark Harmon had been in contention for the role of Tony, but he was deemed "way too good-looking" for the role. Tony Kornheiser, whose life was the basis of the show, was asked to read for the role, but the sportswriter turned down the offer, stating that he did not want to move to Los Angeles.
'Evan Peters' and Alexandra Krosney were originally cast as Tony's children but were replaced before filming began.