Mr. Mayor

Mr. Mayor is an American sitcom that first aired on NBC in January 2021, featuring Emmy winner Ted Danson as the lead character Neil Bremer. The show is a brainchild of esteemed creators Robert Carlock and Tina Fey, who had previously collaborated on the well-loved comedy show 30 Rock. The style of the show is akin to Fey and Carlock's previous works, showcasing a strong sense of humor that combines intelligent wit with slapstick comedy, creating a genuine laugh out loud viewing experience.

The plot centers on Neil Bremer, a retired businessman who decides to run for Mayor of Los Angeles in order to show his teenage daughter that he’s not just a doddering old man who's no longer relevant. He takes up the challenge with full energy without any political background, even though he has little idea how to run a city. Having run his campaign on a series of outlandish promises, he has to figure out how to follow through on making an impact while dealing with a diverse team filled with contrasting personalities.

In his mayoral team, among others, are Arpi Meskimen (played by Holly Hunter), a seasoned, no-nonsense political veteran who becomes Neil’s deputy mayor; Jayden Kwapis (Bobby Moynihan), a well-meaning but clueless communications director who always seems to put his foot in his mouth; and Mikaela Shaw (Vella Lovell), a passionate millennial who never misses any opportunity to voice her opinion about how the team should handle political issues.

Complementing the office interactions, Orly Bremer (Kyla Kenedy), Neil's ambitious and politically savvy daughter often strays from typical teenage problems to provide a unique perspective on various issues, becoming a source of both comfort and stress to her well-meaning but out-of-touch father.

The premise of Mr. Mayor, being set in a major city’s hall of power, naturally lends itself to a certain topicality. From addressing environmental issues to tackling the challenge of education, the comedy doesn’t shy away from engaging with current topics through light-hearted and humorous storytelling.

The first season dexterously encapsulates the challenges of governance while introducing warm character dynamics and hilarious predicaments. However, at its heart, Mr. Mayor is about people grappling with power and how to wield it responsibly. It highlights, frequently with self-deprecating humor, the far-reaching consequences of decisions made in the public sphere and the sheer complexity that lies within simplicity.

Ted Danson, known for his roles in various beloved comedies like Cheers and The Good Place, brings his natural charisma and endearing persona to the character of Neil. His portrayal of a well-intentioned but often wayward mayor is a blend of naive coolness and comedic cynicism which adds a distinct flavor to the sitcom. Holly Hunter, with her tenacious and sharp portrayal of Arpi, adds another zippy dynamic to the show. The remaining ensemble cast, including Bobby Moynihan and Vella Lovell, provide a strong support with their innate comedic timing and distinctive characterizations.

The show is presented with the bright, clean production values of a classic network sitcom while the narrative flows with a swift pace. Dialogues are well-written, punchy, and filled with cultural references. Moreover, the charm of Mr. Mayor lies not only in its engaging storyline and the performances but also in its ability to reflect societal dynamics in a refreshing and unconventional manner.

Overall, Mr. Mayor is a modern day political comedy portraying a team of oddballs who stumble through the day-to-day reality of running a city. It's a show that delivers a clever blend of comedy, political commentary, and heartfelt moments, with a dose of absurdity that's a hallmark of Fey and Carlock's distinctive comedic style. For those who enjoy light-hearted, witty comedies with a relevant subtext, Mr. Mayor is a welcome addition to NBC's robust lineup of sitcoms.