Samantha Nightingale

Reflecting on the debut of Jon Cryer's new sitcom, "Extended Family," I believe it's essential to approach initial impressions with patience and openness. Historically, many beloved sitcoms have taken their time to unfold into the classics we cherish, a fact that becomes evident upon more thoughtful consideration. From this perspective, after watching the first nine episodes, there's a noticeable trajectory of improvement. The characters are gradually evolving into more relatable and distinct personalities, accompanied by an array of clever moments that have genuinely sparked laughter. Despite these strengths, there seems to be a missing element, a certain je ne sais quoi, that could elevate its longevity beyond a single season. The show's central gimmick, while intriguing, requires further refinement. It is my hope that "Extended Family" will discover and harness this missing piece, allowing it to achieve the enduring appeal akin to that of a six-season success.