Bigotry, racism and homophobia are hilarious!
At least in the masterful hands of Ryan Murphy, co-creator of The New Normal (as well as one of the masterminds behind Glee and American Horror Story). And when his words and those of co-creator/co-writer, Allison Adler, deftly illustrate the absurdity of close-minded people, it makes for great television.
The story of two gays who hire a surrogate to carry a child for them is rich with delightful one-liners and eccentric characters, but none better than Ellen Barkin as perhaps the most bigoted person on TV since Archie Bunker. She’s sexy beyond belief, but more importantly, funny as all hell. If you haven’t followed her on Twitter yet (@EllenBarkin), we recommend doing so. She’s one of the most outspoken supporters of gay rights and we’d do anything to help promote her latest gig.
It’s notable too, that the show doesn’t shy away from gay affection. The pilot features a scene of the two men in bed sharing a kiss. Granted, they might as well be Lucy & Ricky with all the clothes they have on, but it’s a start.
The other shining light of The New Normal is Real Housewives-turned-legit-actress, NeNe Leakes. After a great stint on Glee, it’s apparent she may be Murphy’s new muse. And we couldn’t be more thrilled.
Between Leakes and Barkin alone, this show is NBC’s return to their must-see-TV sitcom glory days. But best of all, you don’t have to wait until September 11 to decide for yourself. The entire first episode is available online!
Finally, a sitcom as gay and fabulous as that damn peacock we’ve envied all these years.
The New Normal
Premieres September 11, 2012
www.nbc.com
