If you’re me, network TV isn’t holding a lot of promise, sitcom-wise. “How I Met Your Mother” and “Modern Family” have jumped the shark, “The Big Bang Theory” is inconsistent (and getting stale besides) and “Community” not only jumped the shark, but performed a triple axel backflip jump. “Happy Endings” was canceled by ABC and is likely moving to cable, and “Go On” is off the air as well. That leaves “Parks & Rec” and…not much else.
Enter Michael J. Fox. The incredibly likeable actor retired from TV almost a decade and a half ago, leaving the show “Spin City” to concentrate on fundraising for Parkinson’s Disease research and to spend time with his family. He hasn’t totally been out of the television limelight, though, making guest appearances on “Scrubs,” “Rescue Me” and a memorable stint on “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” Michael J. Fucked Up, anyone?
This fall, Fox returns to network television with “The Michael J. Fox” show on NBC. Seeing the trailer immediately perked me up in regards to the new television season. In the show, Fox plays a news reporter who retired from the job due to a Parkinson’s diagnosis and decides to come back to work after a long hiatus. Fox’s coming timing is still very much present, and, as he has since his diagnosis became public, he doesn’t play the sympathy card at all. He’s also-despite being in his fifties-HIS FIFTIES!!-still boyishly adorable. Count me in.
4 comments
Gonzo says:
May 14, 2013
And Wendell Pierce to boot? Sign me up.
Kyle says:
May 20, 2013
Well, I think I’m convinced to start watching a TV show on one of the major networks at the time it starts for the first time since…2009. Not sure if I agree about “HIMYM” or “Modern Family” having jumped the shark, but I am pretty behind on those – especially the former – and need to catch up.
Michael B. says:
May 24, 2013
Absolutely, I hope everyone gives this show a chance. Even if it didn’t look funny (but it does), Michael J. Fox is just one of the most winning celebrities out there.
For the record, “HIMYM” isn’t as sharp as it once was, but it still produces good material, and I’ve heard that Zooey’s “New Girl” has gotten better and better. Also c’mon, “Parks & Recreation”! And maybe “Community” will rebound next season? Let’s be hopeful. Another show called “The Goldbergs” coming out this fall looks fairly promising too, btw
Big Money says:
May 24, 2013
You are a way more hopeful man than I, Mike.
The only one of those shows I can knowledgeably speak on is “HIMYM” and I just feel like the plots and characters have become super-predictable. It’s still kinda funny, but nowhere near to the extent that it used to be.