The McCarthys: Unfunny and Offensive Stereotypes

What does it say when a show’s trailer contains a laugh track? Loosely based on comedian Brian Gallivan's life and family, this comedy follows gay man Ronny McCarthy, who is ignorant about sports, and his interactions tight-knit family of Boston Irish sports fanatics, including politically incorrect father and high-school basketball coach Arthur, mother Marjorie, brothers Sean and Gerard, and sister Jackie. Arthur appoints Ronny his assistant coach to get him to stay in Boston (and to lure a player with a gay mother onto his team), over the objections of the other brothers. Plots revolve around Ronny’s rivalry with his brothers and his search for a life partner, and unmarried sister Jackie’s pregnancy. This alleged sitcom is filled with offensively over-the-top stereotypes (ignorant bigot father, domineering, manipulative mother, dumb jock oldest son, trashy daughter, and a gay son who proclaims his mother is his “best friend,” and with whom he watches soap operas and dishes about fashion). Other gay characters are presented as flamingly flamboyant, with Arthur describing one as a “lez.” Despite a shrieking, high-decibel laugh track, there is nary a laugh to be found anywhere in the show. Though there was no violence or sexual content in the first episode, and only limited profanity, there also is no reason to watch a program that is just another not-very-good sitcom, and which is unlikely to last out the season. The McCarthys premieres Thursday, October 30 at 9:30 p.m. ET on CBS. Take a look yourself and tell us what you think in our comments below!