One Big Happy

One Big Happy is a pioneering sitcom from NBC that aired in 2015, featuring Elisha Cuthbert in the lead role. It is a short-lived, yet impactful series produced by Ellen DeGeneres that combines elements of comedy, romance, and drama while breaking conventional family norms and exploring a fresh narrative concept.

The storyline revolves around three primary characters Elizabeth (Elisha Cuthbert), her best friend Luke (Nick Zano), and Prudence (Kelly Brook) - a British woman Luke marries impulsively. The characters are found in a complicated yet heartwarming web of relationships and domestic challenges that form the crux of this sitcom. The series flawlessly integrates humor with topical issues, making it a perfect conversation starter for modern-day families.

Elizabeth, fondly called Lizzy, is a gay woman and a successful yet uptight, doctor. She shares a unique bond with her best friend Luke, whom she has known her whole life. Their friendship forms the backdrop of the story, navigating through an array of emotions, complicities, and healthy rivalries.

Luke, on the other hand, is a free-spirited man. He is outgoing, relaxed and seems to take life as it comes. Luke and Lizzy share an unorthodox plan to start a family together given their closeness, despite Lizzy's sexual orientation. However, their plans take an unpredictable turn when Luke meets Prudence, a woman with an infectious zest for life and marries her on the spur of the moment.

Prudence is an enthusiastic, spontaneous, and charming British woman who adds an interesting dynamic to Luke and Lizzy's relationship. Following her marriage to Luke, she is determined to make their relationship work while also seeking Lizzy's acceptance.

When Lizzy discovers that she is pregnant and their surrogate plan has succeeded, she, Luke, and Prudence find themselves in an unprecedented situation. The trio then embarks on a journey to create a non-traditional family set-up, demonstrating a degree of maturity, humor, and tolerance.

This sitcom presents how they tackle the ups and downs of their relationships whilst nurturing their familial bonds. It delicately handles the theme of sexuality, unusual family norms, and frictions and reconciliations that mark the relationship between these three characters. Although it presents moments that are infused with humor and light-hearted banter, it does not shy away from laying out sentimental scenes that tug at the heartstrings.

Elisha Cuthbert, known for her versatile roles in Hollywood, delivers a compelling performance as Lizzy. She convincingly portrays the emotional landscape of her character, making the audience empathize with her. Nick Zano adds levity to the show with his jovial and carefree attitude as Luke. At the same time, Kelly Brook's prominent British accent and compelling portrayal of Prudence only add to the show’s charm.

One Big Happy often side-steps the expected clichés of a sitcom. It wonderfully shakes up the concept of traditional family dynamics and addresses prevailing societal issues within its comic framework. The show employs authentic dialogues, a tasteful touch of romance, and a unique storyline that is both relatable and engaging.

Albeit having a brief lifespan of only one season encompassing six episodes, it leaped into the hearts of the viewers with its refreshing take on relationships and unconventional family setups. The sitcom is a laudable blend of emotionally packed storytelling and witty humor, making it a remarkable addition to the genre of unconventional family sitcoms.

The show’s brave exploration into complex relationship dynamics, light-hearted humor, and skilful performances by the main cast added a dash of originality. It has received credit for being a front-runner in managing to push the boundaries of conventional storytelling and introducing audiences to new family dynamics.

Regrettably, One Big Happy didn't continue beyond its initial run. Yet, it has managed to leave an impression on viewers who appreciated this unique, entertaining, and heartfelt depiction of modern family life, love, and friendships. The brilliantly executed concepts, along with the remarkable performances, made it an enjoyable, standout piece that respected the diversity and eccentricity of contemporary society.

One Big Happy is a sitcom that, in its short life, paints a beautiful portrait of love, acceptance, and family in all its unconventional glory. With memorable performances and a humorous yet touching storyline, it is a series that is worth watching.