Yet that is not the one “Embarrassing”-type sitcom on Netflix’s menu, which raises the query of why the streaming service — which constructed its attraction and status round premium-level content material — needs to emulate old-time TV, providing scenario comedies that would not look out of place on a broadcast community’s schedule within the 1980s or ’90s.
Still to are available May, in the meantime, is “The Upshaws,” starring Mike Epps, Kim Fields and Wanda Sykes (who can also be a co-creator of the present), a standard sitcom format that weaves in bluer language, with Epps as a mechanic with children of numerous ages.
In a way, the streaming service’s urge for food for sitcoms dovetails with its efforts to cater to totally different programming tastes and demographic segments, whereas complementing its library of older collection. In addition to the revival “Fuller House,” the roster of traditional-style sitcoms consists of “Mr. Iglesias,” “Alexa & Katie,” “Family Reunion” and “The Ranch.”
Netflix executives have famous that including multi-camera comedies displays a pure extension of its subscriber progress. Such comfort-food exhibits additionally meet the aim of zigging the place a lot of the tv trade has zagged, with even main networks having shifted lately to favor a single-camera format, with the notable exception of CBS.
“Dad! Stop Embarrassing Me!” and “The Crew” each exhibit a really explicit variety of promoting level, one which depends closely on star energy and advertising and marketing massive, promotable names above all.
For actors like Foxx and James, producing and starring in a sitcom represents a comparatively low-demand method in phrases of the time dedication concerned, a profit that may trump the familiarity of the fabric. In Foxx’s case, “Dad Stop Embarrassing Me!” additionally has the benefit of being a household affair.
A greater query is why such exhibits are perceived to ship important subscriber worth, for essentially the most half allotting pallid variations of a style that is available throughout streaming, with viewers embracing reruns of staples like “Friends,” “The Office” and “The Big Bang Theory” throughout the pandemic.
Because Netflix and its rivals seldom make out there clear knowledge concerning viewing, the most effective indication the technique is working will be seen in its program menu. As lengthy as subscribers exhibit an urge for food for them, anticipate extra old school sitcoms, “Embarrassing” or in any other case.
“Dad! Stop Embarrassing Me” premieres April 14 on Netflix.