Alyson Hannigan's Witchy TV Debut Before Buffy

Alyson Hannigan's television career commenced with a role on the sitcom 'Free Spirit,' predating her iconic portrayal of Willow Rosenberg in 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer.' In 'Free Spirit,' Hannigan played Jessie, a teenager privy to the secret supernatural identity of the family's new housekeeper, Winnie Goodwinn. Winnie, a witch, was hired by the children's father, Thomas, unaware of her magical nature. This series marked Hannigan's television debut after earlier film appearances. Hannigan herself was not part of the initial unaired pilot, having been cast to replace Shonda Whipple as Jessie. The show premiered on September 22, 1989, as part of ABC's original TGIF programming block. It later moved to a Sunday night slot, where it aired for the remainder of its run.