Watch Mama's Family
- TV-PG
- 1983
- 6 Seasons
-
7.3 (7,054)
Mama's Family is a beloved sitcom that first premiered in 1983 on NBC. The show was created by Dick Clair and Jenna McMahon, and it features an ensemble cast of talented actors and actresses. At the center of the show is Mama, played by the iconic Vicki Lawrence. Mama is a feisty, outspoken matriarch who lives with her family in the fictional town of Raytown, Missouri. She is constantly getting into arguments with her family members, but she always has a heart of gold.
Alongside Mama is her son Vinton, played by Ken Berry, and his wife Naomi, played by Dorothy Lyman. Vinton is a bit of a bumbler, and Naomi is a brash, loud-mouthed woman who always has an opinion on everything.
Rounding out the family is Mama's daughter Eunice, played by Carol Burnett alumna Rue McClanahan, and her son Bubba, played by Allan Kayser. Eunice is a neurotic woman who is always looking for her next big break, and Bubba is a teenager who is often caught up in his own world.
As the show progresses, we get to know these characters and their relationships with each other. Mama is a constant source of wisdom and humor, and she always knows just the right thing to say to diffuse a tense situation. Throughout the show, we see her navigate family drama, romantic relationships, and personal challenges, all with her trademark sass and wit.
The show is set in the 1980s and 1990s, and the fashions and pop culture references of the time are on full display. However, the humor and heart of the show are timeless, and it remains a beloved favorite among fans today.
The show features a fantastic supporting cast, including Beverly Archer as Iola, Mama's nosy neighbor, and Eric Brown and Karin Argoud as Mama's grandkids, who come to live with her after their parents split up. Another standout performance comes from the legendary Harvey Korman, who appears in a recurring role as Alistair Quince, a jealous suitor of Mama's.
Throughout its seven-season run, Mama's Family tackled a variety of topics with sensitivity and humor. From issues of aging and family dynamics to love and loss, the show always found a way to balance laughter with heart.
Perhaps one of the most notable aspects of Mama's Family is the chemistry between the cast members. Lawrence, Berry, Lyman, McClanahan, and Kayser all have incredible comedic timing, and their interactions feel genuine and authentic. The cast is truly a well-oiled machine, and their performances are a testament to the show's enduring popularity.
In addition to the fantastic writing and acting, Mama's Family is also known for its recurring sketches and catchphrases. Mama's signature line, "I'm not arguing, I'm just explaining why I'm right," has become a cultural touchstone, and the show's various skits and gags are still referenced in pop culture today.
Overall, Mama's Family is a classic sitcom that has earned its place in television history. It's a heartwarming and hilarious look at family life, with a cast of characters who feel like old friends. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to the show, you're sure to be charmed by the wit, humor, and heart of Mama's Family.
Mama's Family is a series that ran for 6 seasons (139 episodes) between January 22, 1983 and on NBC