Netflix has dropped the trailer for its upcoming animated reboot of the iconic sitcom Good Times, originally created by Norman Lear. The new series offers a fresh perspective on the beloved Evans family, blending humor with social commentary in the signature style of executive producer Seth MacFarlane and showrunner Ranada Shepard.
Florida and James Evans, along with their three children, lived at 721 North Gilbert Avenue, apartment 17C, situated within a public housing project nestled in a disadvantaged, predominantly African American neighborhood in inner-city Chicago. Although the project remained unnamed throughout the show, it is implicitly understood to be Cabrini–Green Homes, as depicted in both the opening and closing credits.
The Evans family consisted of James Jr., affectionately known as “J.J.,” who emerges as a budding artist and illustrator with aspirations akin to a “Casanova” figure. Throughout the series, J.J. navigated the highs and lows of attempting to monetize his creative talents while encountering both success and rejection along his path.
Thelma, the second eldest child, was portrayed as a highly intelligent and ambitious young woman who places great emphasis on education. Viewing education as a means of uplifting her family, Thelma is depicted attending both high school and community college over the course of the series, showcasing her steadfast determination and academic prowess.
Completing the Evans trio was Michael, described by his father as “the militant midget” due to his fervent activism and unwavering support for the Black community and its issues. Michael’s passionate advocacy serves as a focal point of the show, highlighting the family’s collective commitment to social justice and community empowerment.
The Netflix reboot is set in one of the last remaining housing projects in Chicago, the animated reboot follows cab driver Reggie and his wife Beverly as they navigate life’s challenges alongside their children: teenage artist Junior, activist daughter Grey, and infant son Dalvin, who happens to be involved in the drug trade. Despite the odds, the Evans family perseveres, grappling with societal pressures and the enduring struggle for survival.
The new raunchy R-rated Netflix trailer provides a glimpse into the lives of the Evans family, portrayed through a contemporary lens. Featuring a star-studded voice cast, the series includes J.B. Smoove as Reggie, Yvette Nicole Brown as Beverly, Jay Pharoah as Junior, Marsai Martin as Grey, Gerald “Slink” Johnson as Dalvin, and Rashida “Sheedz” Olayiwola as Lashes by Lisa.
The official logline for the series reads: “The only thing tougher than life is love, but in this family, there’s more than enough to go around.” Watch below:
The late Norman Lear, one of the creative minds behind the original Good Times, lent his support to the animated reboot as an executive producer through his Act III Productions banner. Additional executive producers include Brent Miller (Act III Productions), Steph Curry, Erick Peyton, and Jeron Smith (Unanimous Media), along with Seth MacFarlane and Erica Huggins (Fuzzy Door).
The highly anticipated 10-episode first season of the animated Good Times is set to premiere on April 12th, offering audiences a fresh take on a timeless classic.
