NOT DEAD YET is a new series based on the novel CONFESSIONS OF A FORTY SOMETHING **** UP by Alexandra Potter. The sitcom premiered two episodes. It is too early to tell how well this series will do.
I like the premise of an obit newspaper writer seeing the dead. This lends itself to funny situations and conversations among the living. And I have always loved Gina Rodriguez. She okays Nell with superb comedic acting skills (you might remember her from the series JANE THE VIRGIN). She brings to her role as Nell energy and empathy. Many young adults are in her shoes, wondering why life did not work out as they planned. Living in the moment is always harder than it seems. I think the writers are on the right track with her journey. I hope all will be explained shortly concerning her newfound superpower. I have written several obits and never once had her experiences. I think I am a little jealous.
The rest of the ensemble has promise. Of course, Nell has a best friend, a new best friend, an eccentric roommate on the spectrum, a contrary boss, and loads of new characters to introduce each week. I want the writers to dive deeper into each of their backstories to give us depth. The second episode seemed to be a little more on that path. The critics are being harsh about NOT DEAD YET. I am looking for solid stories each week and not just a quick visit with the departed, although Martin Mull was the perfect first. Gina is adorable, older, and hopefully wiser. A little more time will tell.
NOT DEAD YET is available to stream on ABC Television.
