One thing more, then i will digress. If i recall correctly, this show was syndicated, that may have been a factor in its runtime also.   See 4 other replies

I'd like to add though, sometimes the advertisements do abrubptly interrupt some programs, in awkward places. Its free, so i let it slide ;)   See 4 other replies

I doubt very much these shows were five minutes shorter when originally aired. As far as i know, the runtime in the bar visible at the bottom still reflects the total running time of the show sans advertisements.Also, in 1992, on average there was less advertising, and more show. That is the most likely reason this show is ~48 minutes long, whereas most now run a shorter length. One probable reason for this difference over time is the ever increasing popularity of cable/satelite television [requiring over-the-air broadcasters to sell more advertising slots], and in more recent years entertainment sources such as hulu.com. Another likely factor is the growing number of people who watch less or no television, requiring more advertising to better capitalize the lower number of viewers.   See 4 other replies

the lawyer - played in stargate-sg1, incidently   See 1 other reply