Parenthood is a heartwarming television series that premiered in 2010 and ran for six seasons until its final episode in 2015. The show was created by Jason Katims and produced by Ron Howard and Brian Grazer, based on the 1989 film of the same name.
The series follows the Braverman family, a large and diverse clan living in Berkeley, California. The patriarch, Zeek Braverman (Craig T. Nelson), and his wife, Camille (Bonnie Bedelia), have four grown children, each with their own family and struggles.
Adam (Peter Krause) is the oldest of the Braverman siblings and a successful businessman with a wife, Kristina (Monica Potter), and two children, Haddie (Sarah Ramos) and Max (Max Burkholder). However, their perfect life is shattered when they learn that Max has Asperger’s syndrome, a form of autism.
Sarah (Lauren Graham), the second child, is a single mother of two teenagers, Amber (Mae Whitman) and Drew (Miles Heizer). Sarah struggles to make ends meet and find her place in life, but with the help of her family, she begins to find her footing.
Julia (Erika Christensen) is the third child and a successful lawyer with a stay-at-home husband, Joel (Sam Jaeger), and a young daughter, Sydney (Savannah Paige Rae). Julia and Joel decide to adopt a boy, Victor (Xolo Maridueña), from the foster care system, but struggle to connect with him and deal with the challenges of raising a child with a troubled past.
The youngest Braverman sibling, Crosby (Dax Shepard), is a free-spirited musician who unexpectedly becomes a father when an old flame, Jasmine (Joy Bryant), shows up at his doorstep with their son, Jabbar (Tyree Brown). Crosby struggles to adjust to fatherhood and co-parenting with Jasmine, but eventually learns to put his family first.
One of the strengths of Parenthood is its portrayal of family dynamics and the struggles that come with raising children. The show tackles a variety of issues, including autism, teenage pregnancy, infidelity, addiction, and adoption. The characters are flawed and make mistakes, but they always come back to each other and support one another through thick and thin.
The show also features an outstanding ensemble cast, with each actor bringing depth and nuance to their respective roles. Lauren Graham and Peter Krause, who previously starred together in the series Six Feet Under, have incredible chemistry as siblings, while Craig T. Nelson and Bonnie Bedelia bring warmth and gravitas to their roles as the Braverman parents.
In addition, the show’s writing is top-notch, with realistic and relatable dialogue that rings true to life. The series also features a fantastic soundtrack, with music from artists such as Bob Dylan, Fleetwood Mac, and The Avett Brothers.
Overall, Parenthood is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates great storytelling and compelling characters. The show tackles tough issues with grace and compassion and leaves a lasting impression on its viewers long after the final episode airs.
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