Zap2it Fall TV Preview 2008: CBS' New Shows

Gary Unmarried (CBS)
Comedy

Premieres: Wednesday, Sept. 24
Airs: Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET

The Pitch: "The Somewhat Reheated Adventures of Old Gary"

Divorced dad Gary (Jay Mohr) is embarking on a new relationship with Vanessa (Jamie King), but he still has to deal with his freshly engaged ex-wife (Paula Marshall), who has different ideas about how they should be raising their kids (Laura Marano, Ryan Malgarini).

What They Got Right: With its skewed look at blended contemporary families, "Gary Unmarried" fits in well with its Wednesday night companion "The New Adventures of Old Christine." At times, Mohr, Marshall and King have been funny in other projects.

What's Oh, So Wrong: "Gary Unmarried" is mighty stale, from its familiar punchlines, to its cheap-looking sets, to its over-aggressive laugh-track. Mohr's character plays to none of his comic strengths -- Seriously, get this guy an "Action!"-style dark comedy on a pay cable network -- so he isn't funny. Marshall is unlikable (or, rather, her character is) and the kids are just sitcom kids. The only part of the pilot I thought was funny was Larry Miller as the main couple's marriage counselor, nor engaged to Gary's ex. Naturally, Miller has been recast, replaced by Ed Begley Jr.

Recommended If ...: You can't be with the one you love and you don't particularly love the one you're with

'Gary Unmarried' Photos

'Gary Unmarried' Video Clip

Jay Mohr Video Clip