Paramount+ recently launched “Crutch,” a clever spin-off of CBS’s popular series “The Neighborhood.” This sitcom, created by Owen Smith, stars Tracy Morgan as Francois “Crutch” Crutchfield. Crutch is depicted as a widowed business owner living in Harlem, balancing family life and personal growth.
Plot Overview
The show kicks off with a celebratory atmosphere as Crutch’s son, Jake, celebrates his graduation from Columbia Law School. Family dynamics shift when Jake’s sister, Jamilah, brings her children to New York, not only for the festivities but also for more complicated reasons. She reveals that she has separated from her husband and needs a place to stay for the summer.
Characters and Relationships
- Crutch: A devoted father navigating the challenges of sudden family reunions.
- Jake: Crutch’s ambitious son who decides to pursue a career in legal aid.
- Jamilah: Crutch’s daughter managing the impact of her recent separation.
- Toni: Crutch’s sister-in-law, who balances loving support with tough love.
- Mase and Lisa: Jamilah’s children excited to explore life in New York City.
As the family moves back under one roof, they encounter humorous and tension-filled moments. Crutch becomes a supportive figure but also struggles with boundaries, which leads to both heartfelt and comedic scenarios. The show’s tone cleverly incorporates adult humor and relatable family issues, avoiding the standard constraints often found in network programming.
Unique Features
The comedy benefits from a talented ensemble cast, including Luenell as Crutch’s nosy neighbor and Adrian Martinez as Crutch’s best friend. Guest appearances by Arsenio Hall, Deon Cole, and Vanessa A. Williams add further entertainment value.
Filmed in front of a live studio audience, “Crutch” employs a multi-camera setup that enhances its classic sitcom vibe. The third episode, titled “Emotional Crutch,” illustrates Crutch’s journey to strengthen his relationship with Jake through modern communication methods, revealing generational rifts and emotional expressions among men.
Conclusion
“Crutch” is engaging and well-crafted, balancing humor with serious themes like family obligations and personal identity. With all eight episodes now available on Paramount+, the series is poised for continued success on streaming platforms, offering audiences a fresh take on contemporary family life.
