Now what . . . ?
I’m totally aware that I’ve been really hard on all the new sitcoms I’ve been discussing. I’m also aware that there are loads of channels I’ve ignored. I was trying to just pay attention to the shows on the regular (that is, non-cable) channels, since there are people, I’m read about them, that don’t have cable.
So, I guess that means I have to start doing more research. I mean, think of all the work involved. First, I have to find out what stations are out there, what shows they are airing in the Fall, and then which ones are sitcoms. That’s actually the hardest part, since the traditional sitcom has gone so non-traditional, it’s often difficult, at least for me, to decide what they think is funny. At this point, I’m pretty sure I’ve read the description for every new show airing on all the regular networks (ABC, NBC, CBS, CW, Fox), as well as numerous articles and random blogs about them all, and I’m still a little hazy with what they hope to accomplish.
I guess my idea of funny is more old-fashioned. I’m not talking pie-in-the-face funny, cause slapstick never appealed me. I mean, just pain funny. Not anything you have to think about too much, but not crude either. Maybe that’s it. Humor has become so crude. I just don’t find half an hour of smutty talk hilarious. Actually, I find it a little embarrasing, if I’m truthful.
So, what am I talking about? Something like The Cosby Show or Everybody Loves Raymond. Traditional, funny and family-friendly. Of course, I know that those shows, along with I Love Lucy , have been off the air for years now. But I still hope.
Tonight is actually a big night for sitcoms. I just checked the TV Guide from 8 pm to 10 pm. On CBS there’s How I Met Your Mother, New Adventures of Old Christine, Two and Half Men and Rules of Engagement. On the CW, Everybody Hates Chris, All of Us, Girlfriends and The Game.
On random other cable stations, in that same time period, I saw Mama’s Family, Who’s the Boss, Friends, The Cosby Show and Sanford and Son. It occurs to me that I’ve seen everyone of these old shows, but I’ve not seen any of the shows that currently air. As a bonus, I found this video on youtube of the opening credits for Who’s the Boss and I just wanted to share:
In any case, it’s unfortunate, I know, but I won’t be watching any of those shows tonight, cause I’m watching Doctor Who and Hell’s Kitchen. Maybe tomorrow.
August 14th, 2007 at 10:50 am
Who’s the Boss…ah…I loved that show. In fact my whole family sat around and watched it…Mom, Dad and the kids. And never missed it. I think that’s what you’re talking about Toni. Can’t think of one show that appeals to all of my current family anymore. Well maybe some of the reality ones but not the sitcoms…except for King of Queens…but alas, it’s gone too.
August 14th, 2007 at 3:43 pm
That’s exactly what I mean. The kind of show we could all sit around and watch and that everyone liked. Something that doesn’t include swearing, nudity, vulgarity or has-beens. Which pretty much sums up reality TV.