On television, the only things that count -- besides ratings -- are wit and charm, and Brattigan, played by the charismatic Bruce Greenwood, has plenty of both...."The Great Pretender," which also stars Gregg Henry as Brattigan's spacey colleague, was written by its executive producer, Stephen J. Cannell ("Wiseguy"). This one begs to be turned into a series.
Virginia Mann, The Record (Bergen County, NJ) 4/12/91

A failed pilot - don't ask me why, it's as harmless as most of what passes for network entertainment - from producer Stephen J. Cannell, The Great Pretender stars Bruce Greenwood, who plays his columnist with roguish flair, faking IDs, bending rules and using costumes with an energy that would make any editor cringe.
Chicago Tribune 4/12/91

The Great Pretender is an entertaining series pilot for Bruce Greenwood, but it bears no resemblance to reality. Greenwood is a charming, albeit earnest, newspaper columnist who suffers outlandish adventures in pursuit of truth and justice.
Phoenix Gazette 4/12/91

Bruce Greenwood gives good bravado as Brattigan, with help from sidekick writer Wilson Leer (Gregg Henry), crusty publisher Milnar (Donald Moffat), hot-looking office intern and romantic interest Kate (Jessica Steen) and the sinister Bratso (Aharon Ipali).
Los Angeles Times 4/13/91

Greenwood is a less smirky version of the reporter Chevy Chase plays in those Fletch movies, i.e., a master of disguise and the quick quip.
People Weekly 4/15/91

It has been on NBC's shelf for quite awhile because Greenwood had already filmed it when I talked to him a year ago during production of ABC's "Beach Boys" movie.... I found it rather entertaining. Greenwood is perfectly cast.....
San Jose Mercury News 4/12/91