The Cool Kids (FOX)

Every year one network trots out a show that you question why was this made? Who is this show aimed at? This year it’s The Cool Kids, a show set in a retirement community and starring some legendary comic talent.

I’m not complaining.

After their friend Jerry dies, leaving a chair at the coveted “cool kids table” free Hank (David Alan Grier), Sid (Leslie Jordan) and Charlie (Martin Mull) have to deal with not just their loss but the new woman Margaret (Vicki Lawrence). She’s loud, abrasive, and she’s sitting in Jerry’s seat whether they like it or not. Basically she’s me in the future.

The first episode sees the boys trying to get some money together to throw a memorial party in Jerry’s honor. A stolen car, a stolen credit card, and a few dick jokes later the party is in full swing – all thanks to Margaret.

What Did I Think?

The Cool Kids isn’t going to make you roll on the floor with laughter, or have you quoting some witty lines for weeks on end – but you know what? It doesn’t need to. It’s fun and that’s all it needed to be.  It’s the television equivalent of chicken soup on a bitterly cold winter night – comforting and cozy.

While many may say The Cool Kids has no place in the world of cynical, “smart” comedies I will argue they’re wrong. When you have a cast such as this, it’s a pleasure to watch them do their thing, even if the material isn’t as great as it could be. I know I’d happily watch David Alan Grier in ANYTHING, and when you throw in Vicki Lawrence – you have my attention every week for as long as you want.

So should you watch, you ask? Yeah, give it a shot. It may not be your cup of tea, but it’s twenty two minutes that won’t feel wasted – which is more than I can say for a lot of comedies on the air.

The Cool Kids airs Friday 8:30/7:30c on FOX