Leanne Morgan Comedy Series to Launch on Netflix in July
Netflix has shared a first look at Leanne, a new comedy series starring Leanne Morgan and co-created by Susan McMartin, Chuck Lorre, and Morgan. All 16 episodes of the series will premiere globally on Netflix on July 31.
In the series, Leanne’s life takes an unexpected turn when her husband of 33 years leaves her for another woman. Starting over when you’re a grandmother and in menopause isn’t exactly what she had in mind, but with the help of her family, she will navigate this new chapter with grace, dignity, and jello salad.
For Morgan, the series is a childhood dream realized. “I can’t believe it has come true!” the comedian said. “When I started comedy 25 years ago, my goal was to be a part of a sitcom. It just goes to show you it’s never too late, and dreams do come true. I’m a grandmama from Tennessee, and now I have a TV show with Chuck Lorre and Netflix. What in the world!?”
Added Lorre, “If you’ve seen even 10 seconds of Leanne Morgan’s stand-up, then you know what a unique comedic force she is. The theme of starting over is universal, and I cannot think of anyone better to combine heart and comedy than Leanne. I knew I had to work with her, and I’m so excited to bring this story to Netflix.”
The cast includes Leanne Morgan, Kristen Johnston, Celia Weston, Blake Clark, Ryan Stiles, Graham Rogers, and Hannah Pilkes. Tim Daly, Jayma Mays, Annie Gonzalez, and Blake Gibbons are guest stars.
Lorre, Morgan, McMartin, Nick Bakay, and Judi Marmel are executive producers. Leanne comes from Chuck Lorre Productions, Inc., in association with Warner Bros. Television.
Kristen Johnston (Mom, The Righteous Gemstones) joins Morgan in the series, playing Carol, Leanne’s sister and complete opposite. She’s twice-divorced with no kids, and if there’s a choice between going to church and going to a bar, she’ll always choose the latter.
Despite their differences, Carol is fiercely loyal to her sister and is her ride or die. This is Johnston’s second time teaming up with Lorre and executive producer Susan McMartin after spending four seasons in the series Mom.
Graham Rogers (Ray Donovan, The Kominsky Method) plays Tyler, Leanne’s son, her pride and joy. A new dad who’s cowed by his dominating wife, Tyler is facing the pressures of starting his own family while simultaneously trying to navigate the unexpected demise of his parents’ marriage.
Hannah Pilkes (Would I Lie to You, Molli and Max in the Future) plays Josie, Leanne’s daughter. She’s the complete opposite of Tyler: a partier, a rule-breaker, a seeker of fun. In and out of jobs — and in and out of relationships — Josie has always known her brother is the golden child, so she accepts her role as the rebel and never disappoints in fulfilling it.
Ryan Stiles (Whose Line Is It Anyway?, The Drew Carey Show) plays Bill. Married to Leanne for 33 years, Bill built his RV business to provide a good life for his family. A devoted husband, son-in-law, father, and grandfather, Bill has always put family first … until now.
Having just blown up his life by leaving Leanne for another woman, Bill has no idea what he’s doing for the first time.
Celia Weston (In the Bedroom, Dead Man Walking) plays Mama Margaret, Leanne and Carol’s mother and the matriarch of the family. A faithful member of the church and community, Mama always has a kind word and a glass-half-full attitude. She’s fully prepared for death but will probably outlive them all.
Blake Clark (Toy Story 4, United States of Al) plays Daddy John, Leanne and Carol’s father. He’s a bit old-school when it comes to gender roles. But he’s also strong, outspoken, and would do anything for his family.
