I watched the show from start to finish (9 shows), and after having watched the "season finale" tonight, I'd have to say that I enjoyed it very much.
It was a shame that when the show was knocked off the air in March 2003 due to the Iraqi war, that ABC said and did nothing to keep us (the viewers) informed about the rest of the episodes, leaving us completely in the dark. I am glad ABC had the good sense to bring the show back.
Unlike the other reality shows (Survivor, Big Brother, Amazing Race, Joe Millionaire, The Bachelor, etc.), none of my friends were hooked or even aware of "The Family" and I find ABC at fault for that. I think ABC could become the new leader of reality television, but with such a lame promotional campaign for their shows, they'll never beat CBS.
"The Family" was different, and very entertaining. Since they kept referring to it as the "Season Finale," it has me wondering if the show is coming back in the future. In light of the much disappointing "Big Brother 4" cast currently on CBS, it's important to give us a new "family" that we like and care about it.
I think Aunt Donna was interesting; Mike was the good guy; Jill provided us with some drama when Robert turned on her; and Dawn Marie surprised us all when she enjoyed her winning streak and conquered many of her fears. I might add that it was GREAT when Susan Lucci was brought in as a surprise guest, and her mouth dropped open when Dawn Marie mentioned they "weren't getting any sex."
Thanks, ABC.
