It is interesting in this instant gratification generation that folks who saw the first show only are already on IMDb blasting this show. First episodes of 30 minute comedies are usually always a little slow. They have to develop characters so that the audience can relate to them later & then they will get better. These type of folks would have had other great ones over the years canceled.
For instance, CHEERS first episode is really no where near the quality that appeared later in the series. Seinfeld's first episode didn't even have Elaine yet, much less have it's characters fully developed. Barney Miller was very slow the first show. The list goes on, even in the 1960's the pilot to Green Acres is pretty slow. The first episode of Fraiser was nothing over the top either, but given time look where that show wound up.
This show first episode actually shows a lot of promise. It had to take time to develop the friction between the lead characters so that viewers could understand the friction between them which is sure to produce some funny shows later on. Kelsey Grammar & Patricia Heaton are both very good performers, & it shows in the first show.
There is a lot of promise here as when the scripts come along, which I believe they will, the show will get stronger. We have the situation created here where the elements of News Radio can be combined with some unique situations to become an excellent show. The supporting cast looks like they have the potential to come in & strengthen it too.
This type of situation comedy has been done before, but given time to mature, this show can be as big or even bigger than those past series. Let's just hope the instant gratification generation is not running things at FOX. This show had potential but I heard Fox has canceled it.
