Marlon

Marlon is a comedic, heartwarming American sitcom created by Christopher Moynihan and Marlon Wayans. The show aired on NBC from August 2017 to July 2018, encompassing two seasons and a total of 20 episodes.

The sitcom is inspired by the real life of Marlon Wayans, one of the famous Wayans siblings who have made their mark in the world of American comedy. Known for their hilarious sketches and impressive writing skills, the Wayans have entertained audiences for decades. Marlon Wayans now steps into the spotlight, starring as the titular character Marlon Wayne, and co-writing many of the episodes.

In Marlon, Wayans plays an internet superstar; his online videos have a large and dedicated fanbase. Like the real-life Marlon, the character is goofy, funny, and loves pranks – a larger-than-life personality. Despite his adult age, his character often exhibits a childlike behavior, which adds to the charm and humor of the show.

The central plot revolves around Marlon Wayne's life, focusing primarily on his relationship with his family. While he shares a deep bond with his two children, Marley (Notlim Taylor) and Zack (Amir O'Neil), his relationship with his ex-wife, Ashley (Essence Atkins), is more complicated. Ashley is level-headed and responsible – often the straight man to Marlon's silliness. Their marriage might be over, but their interactions and shared parenthood to their two lovely children often put them in comical and sometimes deeply emotional circumstances.

Along with Wayans and Atkins, the sitcom also stars Bresha Webb and Diallo Riddle who play the roles of Yvette and Stevie, their loyal friends, adding a refreshing dynamic to the show. Throughout the show, an eccentric Marlon's over-the-top personality often leads to laugh-out-loud situations. While Marlon's lifestyle and personality are diametrically opposite to Ashley’s, their shared love for their kids keeps them in each other’s lives.

The tone of the show is lighthearted, and the humor is reminiscent of the fun family sitcoms of the 90s, making it appealing to a broad audience. The scripting is well done, with each episode offering an array of humorous scenarios and funny one-liners. The child actors, Notlim Taylor and Amir O'Neil, also showcase a natural flair for comedy and deliver impressive performances, often stealing the show.

But beyond the humor, Marlon also touches on issues like co-parenting, divorce, and family dynamics in a light, often comical, but empathetic way. Even though Marlon and Ashley are separated, they are focused on providing a loving family environment for their children. As a result, there’s a running theme of affection and unity underlying the sitcom's humor. This depiction of a non-traditional yet loving and committed family is a strong point in Marlon’s appeal.

In terms of production, Marlon sticks to the traditional multicam setup, evoking a familiar and enjoyable nostalgia. The laughter, jokes, and sounds of recognition from the live studio audience adds to the overall enjoyment of the show. The scenarios are relatable, the pacing is quick, and the writing manages to balance comedy with heartfelt moments, creating depth and warmth alongside the silliness.

The sitcom, Marlon, stands out due to its unique blend of comedy, family ties, and love, hinging on Marlon Wayans' larger-than-life persona and comic charm. The supporting leads Essence Atkins, Bresha Webb, and Diallo Riddle, and the talented young actors, Notlim Taylor and Amir O’Neil, contribute to the show’s success. Despite its short run, Marlon's distinct flavor of comedy coupled with the portrayal of a modern, non-traditional but loving family left a strong impression on the sitcom genre. Despite its cancellation after two short seasons, the show has found continued life and appreciation on streaming platforms, proving the lasting appeal of its humor and heart.