Welcome to Pilot Perception, our feature in which we break down the first episode of each new show – here Kevin Can Wait – in order to help you decide whether it’s worth your time.
The Show: Kevin Can Wait, CBS in the U.S. and Global TV in Canada, Mondays at 8:30/7:30c
The Pedigree: The show was created and written by eponymous star Kevin James (The King of Queens), Bruce Helford (Anger Management), and Rock Reuben (The King of Queens). Andy Fickman (Liv and Maddie) directed the pilot.
The Cast & How You Know Them: Along with Kevin James, the cast includes Erinn Hayes (Childrens Hospital), Taylor Spreitler (Melissa & Joey), Mary-Charles Jones (Hannah Montana), James DiGiacomo (Brooklyn), Ryan Cartwright (Bones), Gary Valentine (The King of Queens), Leonard Earl Howze (Memphis Beat), and Lenny Venito (The Neighbors).
The Premise: A newly retired police officer has to get used to spending time with his family.
A Taste:
What Works: The family chemistry is pretty decent. And hey, there was a pie chart! And a cake of a murder scene!
What Doesn’t: This feels very, very tired. Unlike many things on TV, it’s not literally a reboot, but it absolutely feels like it could be. Or like it was made twenty years ago and just pulled out of a vault. It’s really just not funny at … all. And many of the “jokes” are at the expense of the men’s wives and children.
Our Favorite Line: “I’ve got my parents staying with me.” “You mean at their house?”
You Might Like This if you like The King of Queens and other traditional family sitcoms.
If You’re Interested: You can catch the pilot on demand or on the CBS or Global TV sites. Then set your DVR for Monday at 8:30/7:30c for episode two.
(Photo courtesy of CBS.)