The new sitcom “Crutch,” starring Tracy Morgan, brings viewers back to a familiar landscape reminiscent of the 1990s. The show centers around Frank Crutchfield, portrayed by Morgan, a man grappling with life changes after losing his wife and having his children move out. However, the narrative takes an unexpected turn as both his daughter, Jamilah (Adrianna Mitchell), and son, played by Jermaine Fowler, express a desire to return to their family home.
The premise raises eyebrows, particularly regarding the believability of adult children moving back in with their father, especially when one is a lawyer capable of affording their own space. As the plot unfolds, humorous moments emerge, such as Frank’s sarcastic comments to his children while they navigate their return home.
Critically, some reviewers found the humor lacking originality, with jokes that tread familiar territory. For instance, the younger generation in the show appears to engage in exaggerated antics—one scene involving Frank’s grandson, Mase (Finn Maloney), humorously showcasing a friend’s dance fail. However, a more significant critique points to the reliance on lazy racial jokes and stereotypes, including lines about privileges and screensavers featuring white families, which felt outdated and uninspired.
“Crutch” also borrows from contemporary societal issues, with mentions of a fictional ice cream shop’s menu showcasing flavors like “Reparation Raspberry.” Despite attempts to resonate with modern audiences, the execution reportedly leaves much to be desired.
While “Crutch” is a spinoff from “The Neighbourhood,” it seems to struggle to carve out its own identity, and early feedback suggests it may not connect well with audiences looking for fresh comedic narratives. The show premieres on Paramount+ starting November 3, 2025, consisting of eight episodes with fluctuating runtimes.
As the show prepares for its debut, there remains hope that future episodes will find their footing and possibly deliver the inventive humor audiences crave. While initial reactions are mixed, every new series has the potential to grow and improve as it navigates the complexities of its characters and narratives.