Watch Surviving Suburbia

Surviving Suburbia premiered on ABC in 2009 as a family sitcom that offered a humorous take on suburban life. Co-created by Kevin Abbott and starring Bob Saget as Steve Patterson, the series was produced by Media Rights Capital and was marketed as a relatable and lighthearted series that catered to a broad audience.

The show revolved around the lives of the Patterson family, who lived in a suburban community somewhere in Ohio. Steve, the patriarch of the family, was a cynical and sarcastic construction worker who often found himself at odds with his wife, Anne (played by Cynthia Stevenson), their two teenage children, and their eccentric neighbors. The show's humor was centered around Steve's dry wit and his never-ending quips about the absurdities of suburban life.

The premise of the show was simple - each episode featured a different scenario that the Pattersons had to navigate. From dealing with nosy neighbors to coping with teenage angst and navigating the complexities of marriage, the show tackled a range of issues that were both relatable and entertaining. The focus of the show was on the characters and their interactions with each other, making it a character-driven sitcom that relied heavily on the chemistry between the cast members.

Bob Saget, known for his role as Danny Tanner in Full House, delivered a nuanced and subtle performance as Steve Patterson. Despite his brash exterior, Saget's portrayal of Steve showed a vulnerability that endeared him to audiences. Cynthia Stevenson, who played Anne, also shone as the sensible and pragmatic matriarch of the family who often found herself at odds with Steve's antics.

The two teenage children, played by G Hannelius and Jared Kusnitz, added a youthful energy to the show. Hannelius played the rebellious and spirited Courtney, while Kusnitz played the awkward and nerdy Henry. Their contrasting personalities provided for some amusing interactions with their parents and added a layer of depth to the show's exploration of family dynamics.

Aside from the main cast, Surviving Suburbia also featured a range of recurring characters who added to the show's comedic potential. Steve's best friend, Jim (played by Jere Burns), was a quirky and unpredictable character who often found himself getting dragged into Steve's shenanigans. The Pattersons' oddball neighbors, the Todds, were also a source of endless amusement, with each member of the family possessing their own eccentricities.

The show's writing was sharp and witty, with a mix of clever one-liners and situational comedy that kept audiences entertained throughout each episode. The comedic timing of the cast was impeccable, and the show's blend of slapstick and satire was a hit with viewers. Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics and only lasting one season, Surviving Suburbia has become a cult classic for fans of family sitcoms.

In conclusion, Surviving Suburbia was a charming and well-executed family sitcom that showcased the talents of its cast and writers. Bob Saget's portrayal of Steve Patterson was a highlight of the show, and the chemistry between the cast members was palpable. While it may not have been a groundbreaking or revolutionary series, it was still a fun and enjoyable watch that left audiences with a warm and fuzzy feeling.