9JKL

Mark Feuerstein returns to television in a family comedy show based on his own life in "9JKL,". The CBS series, which aired between 2017 and 2018, revolves around his character, Josh Roberts, an accomplished actor who has returned to New York after a recent divorce and is forced to navigate the boisterous dynamics of his close-knit family.

Josh, who found fame in a popular television series, is like many Hollywood stars defined by an iconic role. However, following the end of the long-running television show, his character is cut free from his luxurious Los Angeles existence, and in the aftermath of his divorce, he moves back to the east coast. Temporarily, he planned to live in the apartment between the units occupied by his parents and his brother's family, hence the title "9JKL," symbolizing the doors of three adjacent apartments in a stately Manhattan building.

Linda Lavin and Elliott Gould plays the roles of Judy and Harry Roberts, respectively, Josh's overly involved, boundary-pushing parents who showcase old-world sensibilities with unabashed honesty. Lavin's character Judy is the quintessential Jewish mother who, while undoubtedly loving, is undeniably invasive. Conversely, Gould's Harry is jolly, unapologetically eccentric—and equally intrusive.

Josh's competitive and successful surgeon brother, Andrew, is played by David Walton. His beautiful and sinfully perfect wife, Eva, played by Liza Lapira, adds to Josh's disarray by her unyielding strive for perfection. Together, their anxieties and high achievement orientation adds a humorous touch to the series. The dynamic of adult siblings highlighted by the undercurrents of rivalry and perpetual bidding for parental approval offer hilarious circumstances played out throughout the series.

The show adds a colorful layer of characters that further intensifies the nutty family dynamic. Matt Murray portrays Nick, the building superintendent who plays a pivotal role in Josh's day-to-day apartment life, finding himself an unexpected part of the family's eccentricities. Also, we have the acclaimed actress and model Brooke, portrayed by the talented Dana Klein, who becomes a friend to Josh and adds another facet to the overall plot.

In contrast to situational comedies that leverage a variety of exterior locations for storytelling, a unique aspect of "9JKL" is its dominance of the apartment setting. This not only allows for plenty of comedic situations and family interactions but also adds a unique theatrical feel to the show.

"9JKL" illuminates an uncommon situation which reflects the real-life experiences of Mark Feuerstein, drawing humor from an otherwise complicated state of affairs. The show navigates through the heartache of divorce, the struggle of singlehood in middle age, the intricacy of familial bonds, and the peculiar circumstances of living sandwiched within two family units. Moreover, each of the characters is well defined with their distinguished traits wonderfully utilized in driving the storyline and carving out numerous occasions for laughter.

The immediate appeal of the series is seen in its star-studded lineup, evident humor and relatability. Although the concept of an advanced adults living near his parents isn't new, the brand of humor and clever writing breathe fresh life into the premise, ensuring viewers don't get a sense of déjà vu. Despite the varying personalities, the characters' undeniable love and loyalty to each other is indisputable and forms the foundation of the show.

In summary, "9JKL" is a sitcom that remarkably blends the comedy of living with imbued honesty and transparency in the midst of a lovingly meddlesome family and the struggle of maintaining one's sanity and independence. This hilarious mosaic of family dynamics is both relatable and entertaining and is adeptly pieced together by stellar performances and clever writing filled with sharp, humorous dialogue. It's a refreshing blend of old school family sitcoms with contemporary comedic elements accommodating entertaining television viewing experience for audiences of all ages.