Network television used to be rife with comedies (aka sitcoms). And they were long running. The Cosby Show, Seinfeld, Roseanne - they were successful for many seasons. These days it's hit and miss. I personally think it has more to do with casting (and possibly scheduling) than it does with writing.
The concept of the recently axed How To Be A Gentleman was a twist on the duck out of water idea. There was talent evident, but I found myself waiting and practically begging for scenes with Dave Foley because he can be funny alone or with just about anybody. But the chemistry among the rest of the cast was just a little off.
In its place, CBS has placed Rules of Engagement, previously exiled to Saturday night. I would have watched it then. I had a reminder on my calendar to make sure it was on my DVR just in case. I watched it from the start and not because of David Spade. I'd seen Megyn Price in Grounded for Life, Bianca Kajlich tear things up on Boston Public and whether for Seinfeld, Family Guy or The Tick, I don't know a lot of people who don't know who Patrick Warburton is.
The wild card was Oliver Hudson. Spawn of comedy legends, I had first seen him on Dawson's Creek. But we usually watched after teaching our last class of the day, bathed in Mexican humidity and all I really remembered was his teeth. They were hypnotic. But I knew he would be surrounded by solid talent and they would take care of him.
As the seasons progressed, it became Spade I thought was lagging behind. He was supposed to be a 5th wheel and he had some solid lines but they were mostly comebacks to teasing and insults from the other characters. The casting of Adhir Kalyan as Spade's assistant Timmy in the show's third year was, in my mind, just what the show needed.
Timmy gave Spade's Russell a more rounded life. He had a foil instead of being one and the chemistry between the two actors is perfect. Chemistry rules this show though, you believe Audrey and Jeff are longtime marrieds and although sometimes you wonder why a smart woman like Jennifer would stay with the slightly dazed Adam, the chemistry convinces you they were meant for each other.
I'm glad the show has a more visible timeslot and that their premiere pulled in some impressive ratings. Even though my watching won't help the ratings on their side of the border, the show still has a slot on my DVR.
