I Finnerty

I remember when this show was one, but I was pretty busy and the world was falling apart when it was on, so unfortunately, it probably suffered a shorter run than it might have had, though four seasons isn't a failure.

What I like about it is that it's a standard heartwarming sitcom, but still original. Unlike Family Guy, which is also original, it isn't going to gross me out or offend me constantly. It's a comfortable show to watch, the female lead is gorgeous but the girl next door, and the dad is a putz, but still likeable, and not a total idiot. There aren't too many political agendas creeping in either, but issues of the day are addressed in a funny, light manner. There aren't any duds in the cast either. The lothario friend is a bit weird, but he offers chances for dark humor in the show, and the kids and the father add in their respective bits.

It was a good show and it seems to be aging fine. I'm watching it on the LAFF channel, but it could probably succeed in higher level syndication if there is such a thing. It's tightly produced as well, a truly professionally shot and fast moving show.

When my husband first saw "Grounded for Life" he said "Well this isnt' going to last .. it's way too good." The writing isn't amazing, but the casting is so good that it makes the show worth waiting for each week. You wouldn't think of Kevin Corrigan as the quintessential slacker brother but he practically makes this show. Not to mention Richard Riehle, who we loved in "Office Space". So enjoy this show while you can.

Granted, there have only been four episodes aired as of today, but it has shown remarkable promise. The writing is sharp, the timing tight and the storylines not so outrageous that they become ridiculous. True, some may say this format has been done before, but if it's done well, so what?

so this is'nt Malcolm in the middle...it's grounded for life, which is a pretty good show. it is now in it's fourth year on TV and it fills the Friday 8:30 PM slot just fine. i would guess that it won't be everybody's cup of tea, but give it a shot and i'm sure you'll find it quite funny. the actress who plays claudia is played by Megan Pryce, just watching her alone is worth the show, finally TV has a beautiful woman that is not under 106 lbs. for those of us in our 30's who are raising a family, i am sure you will find this program worth the watch. the Finnerty's get my vote for a Friday night viewing! hope you like them as well. WB Friday nights at 8:30PM (as of 10/4/04)

There aren't many sitcoms worth watching on TV, but 'Grounded For Life' is the exception. A fresh approach, an intelligent look at family life, and a wry sense of humor bring 'Grounded' head and shoulders above the other lame competitors in the field.

Are there other original sitcoms out there... yes, if you search long and hard. But this brings together elements that haven't seen the little screen and leave you screaming with laughter.

The buzz is low but good on this one. I encourage everyone to watch it, otherwise another bright, intelligent bit of TV will bite the dust.