Happily Divorced is Drescher’s latest endeavor, a television show in which she stars alongside the equally talented John Michael Higgins (We Bought A Zoo; Arrested Development). Together, they play Fran and Peter Lovett, a recently divorced couple rebounding from Peter’s admission that he is gay. On account of the unfortunate economy and housing market, the Lovetts decide to move apart- but only into separate bedrooms. Fran, who operates a florist company out of their garage, begins to explore relationships with other men after eighteen years of marriage. Peter reenters the dating world as well, and hilarity ensues. Both Lovetts have a dry, jaded humor that suits Drescher’s twangy New Yorker dialect.
The Lovetts’ antics span a wide range of comedic motifs, yet show creators Drescher and Peter Marc Jacobsen are always quick to add a necessary twist of sentiment that brings the series back to earth. Tichina Arnold is delightful as Fran’s best friend and confidante, Judi Mann. Recently single as well, Judi navigates the world of dating, men, and love alongside her gal pal, always offering up a good dose of sass and skepticism.
Shows with this caliber of comedic star power can run the risk of actors cancelling each other out. Yet Happily Divorced manages just the opposite- Higgins and Drescher enhance one another’s performances with incalculably perfect timing and genuine rapport. It’s a pleasure to watch their onscreen chemistry develop, with the requisite quips and one-liners that define true Fran Drescher comedy.
This phenomenal first season DVD set has several bonus features as well, including interviews with the cast and creators and two behind-the-scenes featurettes. Watch this for a girls’ night in or with your significant other. You’ll be attempting that incomparable Queens inflection for weeks to come.
