Adults FX Series Review – Hilarious Gen Z Sitcom Reinventing Comedy
The Adults FX series dives headfirst into the chaotic lives of five Gen Z friends navigating adulthood with awkward charm and eccentric flair. Drawing inspiration from classic sitcoms while embracing modern absurdity, this show delivers a sharp blend of nostalgia and originality.
Some readers may recall when networks were desperately searching for “The Next Friends,” flooding television with buddy comedies led by random young actors. While most failed, a few stood out—Happy Endings, for instance. The genre faded over time as cable TV leaned toward more serious content. But now, FX revives this style in a bold, modern fashion with Adults, a show that recalls Friends but replaces its innocence with sharp wit, current trends, and adult absurdities like online dating, AirTags, and ketamine.
Why the Adults FX Series Feels Familiar Yet Fresh
Adults is about five twenty-somethings sharing a house, including Samir (Malik Elassal), Billie (Lucy Freyer), Anton (Owen Thiele), Issa (Amita Rao), and Issa’s boyfriend Paul Baker (Jack Innanen). These characters balance finding jobs and navigating love while fumbling through adulthood.
Samir, in particular, moves from a disastrous job interview to a food delivery gig, only to get sidetracked by high schoolers. Billie attempts to ride a cancel culture moment to fame but instead ends up battling medical bills—and even finds herself in a surprising romance with a former teacher (Charlie Cox). Every character’s arc is chaotic, humorous, and oddly heartfelt.
Strong Character Chemistry Defines the Adults FX Series
What makes Adults FX series shine is the cast chemistry. The writing, at times, leans too heavily on Gen Z slang or trends, but the core charm lies in its characters. They are flawed but likable, allowing viewers to embrace their foolishness without judgment.
The best moments come not from exaggerated punchlines, but from relatable moments: not knowing the meaning of “waft,” feeling awkward around a partner’s friend group, or longing for the simplicity of hanging at the park. These glimpses of genuine humanity ground the humor.
Humor That Works for a New Generation
The show doesn’t just mimic older sitcoms—it builds on them. Like It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Adults combines standalone chaos with season-long gags. The difference? These characters still have hearts. Each performer—Freyer, Elassal, Thiele, Rao, and Innanen—brings unique comedic timing and presence, making it hard to pick a standout.
Even in its weakest moments—like an overly exaggerated scene involving a suspected criminal—the cast’s charm keeps things moving. The show feels like it’s still growing, and that’s part of the appeal.
Final Thoughts
Adults FX series may not be perfect, but it’s a refreshing twist on the sitcom genre. With great performances and a modern sensibility, the show is set to carve its own space in comedy television. It proves that sometimes, growing up means laughing at how little you have it together.
Premiere Date: May 28 on FX, with episodes streaming on Hulu the next day.
Source : www.rogerebert.com
