Primetime on Thursday nights has become a little more entertaining with the launch of The Crazy Ones, a half-hour CBS comedy which premiered in September as part of the 2013-2014 television season. A star-studded ensemble cast of characters attracted a large initial audience, and quality dialog has kept viewers returning for more.
Robin Williams, in his first television role since Mork & Mindy 31 years ago, stars as Simon Roberts, one of three partners in the Chicago advertising agency Lewis, Roberts + Roberts. Williams skillfully plays the wild but lovable character opposite his two more uptight partners: Gordon Lewis, played by Brad Garrett of Everyone Loves Raymond fame, and Sydney Roberts, played by Sarah Michelle Gellar.
The major characters are supported by other talented cast members. James Wolk plays Zach, a gifted, womanizing art director and Simon’s golden boy, and Hamish Linklater plays Andrew, a hard-working copywriter who struggles with his jealousy of Zach’s relationships with women and their boss. Amanda Setton rounds out the cast with her portrayal of Lauren, their assistant who wants to be appreciated for more than just her good looks.
Viewers have seen many prominent brands – McDonalds, Allstate, and Victoria’s Secret, to name a few – highlighted in episodes in order to bring a more realistic vibe to the show. Surprisingly, the major brands do not pay for their appearance nor are they granted script approval beforehand. The Crazy Ones has also attracted some top names for cameo appearances, like Kelly Clarkson and Josh Groban, who played themselves.
The Crazy Ones is produced most notably by David E. Kelley, known for many successful television series such as Chicago Hope, Boston Public, and Ally McBeal. Kelley’s production company paired with 20th Century Fox Television to release the comedy.
