7.6 / 10 (based on 187 reviews)
Bonnie Hunt plays Bonnie Kelly, an affable Midwesterner who is now an on-camera news reporter in Chicago. Each episode of the show contains an improvised remote segment she performs in character. Rounding out the rest of the cast are Holly, Bonnie’s best friend and a hairdresser at the station, her limo-driving neighbor Keith, cameraman Tom, and Mr. Kirkland, her boss (and crush).
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Bonnie Hunt, Mark Derwin, Brian Howe, Don Lake
Creators: Rob Burnett, Bonnie Hunt
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes, 30-minute runtime
Shows Most Like The Bonnie Hunt Show (1995)
United States of Al (2021)
6.5 / 10 (based on 3110 reviews)
The friendship between Riley, a Marine combat veteran struggling to readjust to civilian life in Ohio, and Awalmir, the Afghan interpreter who served with his unit and has just arrived to start a new life in America.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Parker Young, Adhir Kalyan, Elizabeth Alderfer, Dean Norris
Creators: Maria Ferrari, David Goetsch
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 24 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime
The Odd Couple (1970)
7.9 / 10 (based on 6697 reviews)
Two men, a neat freak and a slob separated from their wives, have to live together despite their differences.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Tony Randall, Jack Klugman, Al Molinaro, Penny Marshall
Creators: Jerry Belson, Garry Marshall
Directors:
Writers:
5 seasons, 114 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime
Man with a Plan (2016)
7 / 10 (based on 10738 reviews)
A dad finds out that parenting is harder than he thought after his wife goes back to work and he’s left at home to take care of the kids.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Matt LeBlanc, Liza Snyder, Matt Cook, Grace Kaufman
Creators: Jackie Filgo, Jeff Filgo
Directors:
Writers:
4 seasons, 69 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime
The Soul Man (2012)
6 / 10 (based on 833 reviews)
“The Soul Man” revolves around R&B superstar-turned-minister Reverend Boyce “The Voice” Ballentine, who was living the high life in Las Vegas at the top of the music charts when he gets the calling to go from soul singer to soul saver. Relocating to St. Louis with his wife, Lolli and his daughter, Lyric, to take over the preaching duties in his father’s church, his family is not exactly eager to give up the fabulous superstar life for a humble one.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Cedric the Entertainer, Niecy Nash, Wesley Jonathan, John Beasley
Creators: Cedric the Entertainer, Suzanne Martin
Directors:
Writers:
5 seasons, 54 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime
The Corona Dialogues: a Dylan Brody project (2020)
No reviews
None
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Kate Orsini, Dylan Brody, Robyn Heller, Alan Brody
Creators: Dylan Brody
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 34 episodes
In the mid-90s, amidst a sea of sitcoms that often felt like they were cut from the same cloth, one show dared to be different. “The Bonnie Hunt Show,” which aired in 1995, brought a fresh perspective to television, blending comedy with a touch of realism that was both refreshing and engaging. This show wasn’t just another entry in the sitcom genre; it was a glimpse into the life of its creator and star, Bonnie Hunt, who brought her real-life experiences as a nurse, a Second City alum, and a natural storyteller to the small screen.
A Unique Premise
At its core, “The Bonnie Hunt Show” was about Bonnie Kelly, a character who worked as a customer service representative for a major airline. The setting allowed for a diverse cast of characters and situations, ranging from the everyday to the absurd, all while staying grounded in relatable human experiences. What set this show apart was not just its setting but its commitment to character-driven humor and storytelling.
The Cast and Characters
Bonnie Hunt’s charm and wit were at the center, but the show was bolstered by a strong supporting cast. Each character brought something unique to the table, creating a dynamic that felt both genuine and entertaining.
- Mark Derwin played Bill, Bonnie’s love interest, adding a romantic subplot that was sweet without being saccharine.
- Holly Wortell and Don Lake, long-time collaborators of Hunt, played Holly and Keith, friends who often found themselves entangled in Bonnie’s life and schemes.
- Tom Virtue and Brian Howe provided additional comedic support, making the ensemble feel like a tight-knit community.
What made these characters stand out was their depth and the sense that their lives extended beyond the screen. They weren’t just there to deliver punchlines; they felt like real people.
The Humor
Humor in “The Bonnie Hunt Show” was always grounded in reality. Instead of relying on over-the-top scenarios or slapstick, the show found comedy in everyday situations and the natural interactions between characters. Bonnie’s background in improv was evident in the show’s dialogue, which felt spontaneous and authentic. This approach to comedy was refreshing and allowed for moments of unexpected humor that resonated with audiences.
Storytelling and Themes
One of the show’s strengths was its ability to weave together comedy and drama. It tackled themes like friendship, love, and the challenges of everyday life without ever feeling preachy or losing its sense of humor. Episodes often revolved around Bonnie’s attempts to navigate her personal and professional worlds, showcasing her resilience and optimism in the face of adversity.
The show also wasn’t afraid to touch on more serious topics, but it did so with grace and a light touch, ensuring that the message never overshadowed the entertainment value.
Why It Stood Out
In an era dominated by sitcoms that often felt formulaic, “The Bonnie Hunt Show” was a breath of fresh air. It didn’t rely on a laugh track or stock characters. Instead, it offered viewers a slice of life, filled with laughter, heart, and characters that felt like friends.
Its blend of humor and heart, combined with Bonnie Hunt’s undeniable talent, made it a show that was ahead of its time. It’s no wonder that it has remained a beloved gem for those who remember it.
The Impact and Legacy
Though “The Bonnie Hunt Show” was short-lived, its impact is still felt today. It paved the way for other comedies that sought to blend humor with heartfelt storytelling. Bonnie Hunt herself has gone on to have a successful career in film and television, but for many fans, this show remains a highlight.
Final Thoughts
“The Bonnie Hunt Show” may not have had a long run, but its quality and charm have ensured that it remains a standout show from the 90s. It was a showcase for Bonnie Hunt’s talents and a reminder of the power of good storytelling. For those who appreciate comedies that feel genuine and heartwarming, this show is a must-watch.
In a world where television often feels dominated by reboots and formulaic sitcoms, revisiting “The Bonnie Hunt Show” is a reminder of what makes for truly engaging TV: characters that feel real, stories that resonate, and laughter that comes from a place of truth. It’s a testament to the show’s quality that, decades later, it still holds a special place in the hearts of those who watched it.