Go On

Go On is a unique blend of comedy and drama that aired on NBC from 2012 to 2013. The captivating show stars Matthew Perry, best known for his iconic role on Friends, who effortlessly delves into his character and gives an incredibly convincing and charming performance. The supporting cast, including Laura Benanti and Julie White, bring their characters to life with beautiful depth and personality, making each member of this ensemble cast a joy to watch.

Matthew Perry stars as Ryan King, a successful sports radio host of KBAL in Los Angeles. After the sudden, tragic death of his wife, Ryan, though known for his witty and jovial persona, finds himself grappling with grief. In order to return back to work, his boss forces him to join a support group to deal with his loss. However, resiliently independent and emotionally guarded, Ryan is initially reluctant. Despite this reluctance, he soon finds himself amidst a unique group of individuals, each dealing with their own life-altering experiences.

The support group comprises an exciting mix of characters, each with their own personal stories and reasons for being there. Among them is therapist and group leader Lauren Bennett, played by the talented Laura Benanti. Though at first glance she might seem out of depth, her sincere intentions and struggles coupled with her determination to help, make her a very relatable and heartwarming character. The equally gifted Julie White portrays Anne, a sharp-tongued and prickly yet deeply caring woman grieving the death of her partner. The rest of the group includes a myriad of lovable, quirky, and idiosyncratic characters that add color and depth to the series.

Throughout the series, Matthew Perry's Ryan King attempts to navigate this new normal. Despite his initial resistance, it becomes evident that he is not alone in his journey. This group of once-strangers soon forms their own little community, built on shared experiences, even if vastly different. They serve as assurance through shared laughter, sorrow, and the sometimes painful process of healing. Their unconventional, often humorous approach to coping with loss provides the show's primary source of comedy, without overshadowing the authentic emotional themes at its core.

The brilliance of Go On lies not solely in its comedic moments, but it's ability to gracefully balance such moments with the very serious and sensitive theme of overcoming personal loss. The series artfully explores the human capacity to heal, recover, and find joy in otherwise trying times. It's not about despair, but more about the start of a journey back from it, about reaching out, and about leaning on others when one's burdens get too heavy.

Matthew Perry’s quintessential charm and comic timing serve perfectly for his character. Ryan King wavers between showcasing immense vulnerability due to his loss, and using humor as a defense mechanism, and Perry’s portrayal of this delicate balance is commendable.

A standout feature of Go On is its remarkable character development. The transformations we witness in every character, especially Ryan, who from a superficially happy-go-lucky guy becomes a more introspective and emotionally articulate individual, are nothing short of incredible. Similarly, the members of the support group and even the therapist Lauren manage to break free from their initial stereotypes and gradually reveal more significant layers of their characters.

Go On is a heart-touching television series that tackles grief and loss with wit, sensitivity, and honesty. With impeccable performances by Matthew Perry, Laura Benanti, and Julie White, among others, it's a journey of humanity, friendship, and healing that skillfully blends comedy and tragedy to tell a captivating story of resilience.

In conclusion, Go On from NBC isn't just a show about grief and loss; it's a story about overcoming adversity and initiating a process of self-transformation. It is a life-affirming tale of strength in friendship, the importance of connection, and the universal human process of healing, all laced with an undercurrent of light-hearted comedy to provide the perfect balance.