Midway through the first episode of HBO’s new sitcom Rooster, we meet Greg Russo, played by Steve Carell. He’s a bestselling crime novelist visiting Ludlow College to check on his daughter, Katie (Charly Clive). Katie’s marriage is on shaky ground due to her husband’s affair with a grad student. While there, Greg ends up being offered a job as the school’s writer in residence. It’s a big deal for him, but he feels out of place. He jokes, “I write books that you’re supposed to read at the beach,” hinting at his self-doubt.
Rooster was created by Bill Lawrence and Matt Tarses, known for their work on Scrubs and Ted Lasso. Lawrence’s jump from network TV to HBO makes us wonder what he’s doing in a space known for deeper, darker themes. But at its core, Rooster feels like a classic Bill Lawrence show, mixing humor with introspection, though it doesn’t dive too deeply into campus life like other shows.
Lawrence and Tarses take a lighthearted approach. The setting is a backdrop for Greg’s journey. He’s been struggling since his wife divorced him five years ago and the campus provides a chance to reconnect with Katie, who is also trying to find her footing. A student reminds him, “This is college. You get to reinvent yourself here.”
Carell has played similar roles throughout his career, often portraying men searching for purpose. In Rooster, Greg is already successful but feels insecure about his status in the literary world. His journey on campus revolves around dating and the humor of awkward situations, all while navigating relationships with Katie and her estranged husband, Archie (Phil Dunster).
Katie’s relationship with Archie is complex. He’s caught between his grad student mistress and Katie, leading them into familiar yet frustrating territory. Their dynamic is messy and realistic, resonating with many viewers who’ve experienced complicated breakups.
The characters in Rooster often trip over their own emotions. For instance, Greg, while enjoying casual encounters, doesn’t see how they might affect those involved. The adults in the show often seem lost, reminiscent of how many feel in today’s fast-paced world.
Despite its lighter tone, Rooster touches on serious themes like the challenges of modern dating and the generational divide. User reactions on social media highlight how relatable many find these struggles. Some viewers laugh at the awkward moments while others reflect on their own complicated relationships.
Ultimately, Rooster aims to entertain but feels a bit scattered. It balances humor and heart but doesn’t fully commit to either direction. This leaves it charming yet forgettable, struggling to capture the depth that many seek in today’s television landscape. In a world filled with pressing issues, it seems Rooster just wants to have a good time without worrying too much about the long term.
For more insights into the shifting landscape of comedy and drama, check out NPR’s review or Variety’s analysis.
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