Get Out the Hankies!

“Everybody’s Baby: The Rescue of Jessica McClure” will begin production in mid-March in Midland, Tex., for ABC-TV. The triumphant tale of the plucky 18-month-old--who survived 56 hours in a well--will include characters based on the real-life heroes of Midland.

Including: Midland fire chief James Roberts, who masterminds and coordinates the rescue; Midland police chief Richard Czech; Cissy and Chip McClure (Jessica’s parents) and paramedic Robert O’Donnell--who was pulled from the well holding the bandaged baby.

Casting materials we’ve seen note that the angelic little girl with a Dutch-boy haircut has “spirit and courage (that) never flag” during her ordeal, during which time “her little voice can be faintly heard, singing, talking and crying.”