Viacom Productions/ Everett Collection
While Colorado often shines in its scenic beauty, it has not historically had as many opportunities in the film and television industry compared to states like New Mexico and Utah, which boast significantly larger economic incentives for production companies. Nonetheless, some lesser-known TV shows have used Denver as a backdrop. The city even welcomed a revival of the Perry Mason series in the late ’80s, showcasing its unique charm through various narratives.
Yet, there was a golden period when the legendary Dick Van Dyke, a titan of the entertainment industry, brought his show Diagnosis: Murder to Denver. For two glorious seasons, starting in the early 1990s, this iconic actor filmed in the city, offering a significant boost not only to local culture but also to employment, with many residents working on the set, and even Van Dyke’s son, Barry, taking on a notable role as a police detective.
The genesis of Diagnosis: Murder was quite humble. The character Dr. Mark Sloan, a former U.S. Army doctor with a knack for solving mysteries, initially appeared in a 1991 episode of the forgettable series Jake and the Fatman. Following his introduction, Dr. Sloan starred in three TV movies, the first two of which were filmed in Vancouver. However, as luck would have it, Viacom chose Denver as the site for the third film, utilizing the soundstages at the historic Lowenstein Theater, which now houses the famous Tattered Cover bookstore, and actual courtrooms that were spruced up for their previous role in Perry Mason.
When the weekly series premiered on CBS in October 1993, viewers were captivated not just by Van Dyke’s magnetic performance but also by recognizable local landmarks. The first eight episodes were filmed and set in Denver, offering glimpses of old St. Luke’s Hospital—renamed Community General Hospital in the series—and other familiar settings. The camaraderie grew as the cast and crew mingled with locals; it’s said that Van Dyke often frequented the much-loved dive bar, Bar Bar, which became part of the show’s lore.
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However, this charming chapter was relatively short-lived. In a surprising twist, the show abruptly transitioned to Los Angeles with little to no explanation for the shift in setting. From that point forward, Diagnosis: Murder continued for six more seasons and spawned two additional TV movies, yet its connection to Denver became a picturesque memory.
In the grand tapestry of Dick Van Dyke’s illustrious career, his time spent in Denver for Diagnosis: Murder may seem like a fleeting moment. However, it played a significant role in bringing local talent and culture into the limelight, proving that sometimes, even a brief spark can reignite a community’s passion for the arts.
An interesting, albeit bittersweet, footnote for Denver is the fate of the oldest house on Stoneman’s Row, located at the start of Highland. Despite its connection to Van Dyke—who fought to preserve it—the Denver Landmark Preservation Commission ruled that the association was not culturally significant. Consequently, the historic block was delisted in 2007 and was soon demolished, a poignant reminder that some treasures can slip away, however cherished they may be.