Why Television Needs 'The Michael J. Fox Show'

Credit: NBC

When it was announced that Michael J. Fox was making his return to television with his own sitcom, the reactions were mixed. Most were thrilled that the talented actor would be back on our television screens to hopefully prove he "still has it." It's been a long time since Back To The Future and Family Ties and the landscape of television isn't the same. You'll lose count of how many failed sitcoms various networks attempt to launch every season. And, let's be honest, most of them pretty much suck. The jokes are stale, the delivery is even worse, and no amount of stunt casting will help them.

We're hoping "The Michael J. Fox Show" is different. Following a 1 hour season premiere last week, it was out-performed by Robin Williams' "The Crazy Ones" in the ratings. Because of this, we've come up with 5 reasons that viewers, and television, need "The Michael J. Fox Show".

1. The Show Has Heart Network lineups are full of sitcoms trying to be funny and they only succeed at being offensive and embarrassingly try-hard. "The Michael J. Fox Show" has none of that. Early on it is established that Michael won't shy away from the elephant in the room. He has Parkinson's. And that's okay. The show manages to make light of the situation while still being funny. Offensive jokes that step over the line aren't necessary here.

2. It's Not A Medical or Crime Drama

Let's face it. Every other show on TV nowadays is either a medical or crime drama. Cops, detectives, doctors, scientists poking at bodies, and every Law & Order and CSI/NCIS hybrid around is dominating the market. Now, I'm not saying these shows aren't good. Some of them are. But it gets repetitive and boring and I'm looking for something different. A decent sitcom that isn't Modern Family is needed.

3. It's Not A Reality Show

When it isn't about crime or something in a hospital, chances are it's some sort of reality program. From Jersey Shore to every singing/dancing/talent competition on the market, reality shows don't even need to be "good" or "interesting" to get the green light. When did we, as viewers, allow our standards to slip so low?

4. NBC Needs Something

I'll be honest here. When I heard Michael J. Fox was getting a new series, I was thrilled. Then I heard it was going to be on NBC. I was less thrilled. Yes, they have their occasional hits but for the most part, NBC has been slipping in the ratings and seem to give up on their shows pretty quickly. "The Michael J. Fox Show" may need some time to gain its footing and establish an audience but we think NBC should give it a chance before they give up on it.

5. It's Michael J. Fox

'Nuff said. We need him back on our screens.

What did you guys think of the season premiere of "The Michael J. Fox Show"?