Council of Dads

Council of Dads is a captivating drama television series that takes a refreshing blend of family orientation and poignant storylines. Produced by Universal Television, the series is an element of sophistication from NBC and premiered on March 24, 2020. The entertaining drama is the brainchild of Joan Rater and Tony Phelan who worked together on the show "Grey's Anatomy"; they served as both creators and executive producers. The show is based on Bruce Feiler’s memoir, “The Council of Dads: My Daughters, My Illness, and the Men Who Could Be Me”.

The plot of Council of Dads is an enriching exploration into the meaning of family, friendship, love and the countless forms those can take in our lives. It journeys into the life of the Perry family, which at first glance appears perfectly ordinary. Scott Perry, portrayed by Tom Everett Scott, is a caring husband and father with a charismatic personality. He and his wife Robin, embodied by Sarah Wayne Callies, are the parents of five diverse children, building their life in picturesque Savannah, Georgia.

The family’s world takes an unexpected turn when Scott is diagnosed with a devastating illness. Faced with this reality, he worries about how his family will continue their life journey in his absence, concerned about his kids growing up, missing those pivotal parental guidance moments. With the help of his wife, Scott comes up with a unique plan for ensuring that his family will be cared for even when he's unable to fulfil his fatherly duties: he recruits a group of his closest allies and friends to be there for his family, to guide and support them through the joys and heartbreaks of life in his stead. This 'council of dads' consists of his oldest friend, Anthony, his AA sponsor, Larry, and his doctor and friend, Oliver. Each of these men brings his own strengths, experiences, and viewpoints to parenting, helping to fill the void left by Scott’s absence.

Council of Dads provides a moving exploration of the love and bonds that form within a family and the lengths a parent will go to ensure the well-being of his kids. It confronts life's biggest trials with heart and sincerity, not afraid to showcase both laughter and tears. In addition, the storyline's handling of grief is genuine and true to life, avoiding the danger of becoming melodramatic or over the top.

The characters are expertly brought to life by their talented cast members, making them easily relatable and memorable. Tom Everett Scott’s performance as Scott Perry is particularly commendable, delivering authenticity to his role that makes viewers root for his character. Sarah Wayne Callies as Robin Perry manifests the strength and vulnerabilities of a wife and mother faced with raising her family amidst heartache. The group of men forming the 'council of dads' are brilliantly portrayed by Clive Standen as Anthony Lavelle, J. August Richards as Dr Oliver Post and Michael O'Neill as Larry Mills.

Council of Dads is no doubt a series loaded with emotions, but it also weaves in elements of light-hearted humor and sharp wit, balancing out the narrative’s darker themes. It also stands apart in its representation of diversity and inclusivity, covering a broad array of issues like race, gender, sexuality, and societal norms.

The series is a testament to the idea that family is less about bloodlines, and more about the people who show up, stand by our sides, and help us to navigate the unpredictable twists of life. Council of Dads strikes a compelling chord with viewers who can relate to the everyday challenges and victories of raising a family and the strong bonds of friendships that often weather life’s toughest storms.

In conclusion, Council of Dads is a powerful depiction of love's resilience in the face of adversity: a tale of a man who finds a way to leave a lasting legacy for his children, and of those who step up to honour that legacy. With a talented cast and a robust narrative that masterfully balances heavy themes with lighter moments, the series serves as a refreshing take on the traditional family drama.