Okay, I have a confession: I’m a TV snob. Over the years, I’ve gravitated toward streaming services and premium cable shows, often looking down my nose at network television. So when I first heard about So Help Me Todd, a CBS series featuring a high-powered attorney and her aimless son, I didn’t think much of it. Fast forward to the show’s second season, and after binging all the episodes, I’m here to tell you why So Help Me Todd just might be better than Ted Lasso. Yes, you heard that right! Let’s dive into my five reasons.
1. Margaret Wright: A Stronger Female Lead
More Than Meets the Eye
First off, let’s talk about Margaret Wright, played by the incomparable Marcia Gay Harden. At first glance, she might seem like just another snooty attorney, but trust me—there’s a lot more to her character. Unlike Ted Lasso, who waltzes into a new job with little experience, Margaret returned to law school after raising two kids and facing personal tragedy. Talk about a woman on a mission!
Margaret isn’t just a privileged lawyer; she uses her skills to champion the underdog. Throughout the series, she proves that her wealth and privilege don’t define her. Instead, she’s deeply invested in helping those overlooked by the legal system. This multifaceted character elevates So Help Me Todd, showcasing a strong female lead who knows what she’s doing and isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty for her clients.
2. Todd Wright: The Lovable Goof
A Quirky Sidekick with Depth
Now let’s move on to Todd, played by Skylar Astin. While Ted Lasso has his charms, Todd takes quirky humor to a whole new level. From his zany one-liners to his slapstick moments, Todd delivers a constant stream of laughs. Remember the scene where he gets sick from eating corn smut? Or when he freaks out after thinking he’s dined at a cannibal restaurant? Those moments are pure gold!
What’s great about Todd is that he’s relatable. Like many of us, he’s trying to find his way in life and grappling with family dynamics. His character struggles with being the “black sheep” of his accomplished family, and yet, he’s a genius at sleuthing. This mix of silliness and vulnerability makes him an endearing character who feels real, unlike some of the more polished personalities on other shows.
3. Slapstick Comedy Done Right
A Comedy That Keeps You Laughing
When it comes to comedy, So Help Me Todd leans heavily into slapstick, delivering a nonstop barrage of laughs. The show may be labeled a drama, but it plays more like a com-drama—if that’s even a term! The zany antics, ridiculous situations, and hilariously named characters (seriously, who doesn’t love Huckleberry Johnson?) keep you chuckling throughout.
I found myself laughing out loud during my binge, which isn’t something I can say about my Ted Lasso viewings. Sure, that show has its funny moments, but So Help Me Todd cranks up the absurdity to a whole new level. You might even find it hard to keep a straight face while watching, thanks to the rapid-fire jokes and physical comedy.
4. Complex Family Dynamics
Emotional Ties that Matter
What makes So Help Me Todd shine even brighter are the intricate family relationships. The Wright family—Margaret and her adult kids—navigate a web of love, misunderstandings, and secrets that feels so authentic. Unlike Ted Lasso, which focuses on a wide range of characters, So Help Me Todd dives deep into familial connections, creating a rich emotional landscape.
As family members confront their past mistakes and work toward reconciliation, you can’t help but feel invested in their journey. The mix of humor and heartfelt moments gives the show a depth that resonates with viewers. You’ll find yourself laughing one moment and feeling a tug at your heartstrings the next.
5. A Joyful, Hopeful Experience
Uplifting Stories of Justice
Finally, the overall tone of So Help Me Todd leans toward joy and hope. Margaret and Todd aren’t just solving cases; they’re fighting for justice and doing right by their clients. Each episode often concludes with a feel-good moment where the underdog prevails, reinforcing the idea that good can triumph over evil.
Unlike Ted Lasso, which often plays with themes of failure and redemption, So Help Me Todd keeps things more lighthearted while still addressing serious issues. It’s refreshing to watch characters who genuinely want to make a difference, and it leaves you feeling optimistic after each episode.
Conclusion: Give It a Shot!
So, there you have it! After binging So Help Me Todd, I firmly believe it stands tall alongside (and perhaps even above) Ted Lasso. With its strong characters, laugh-out-loud comedy, complex family dynamics, and uplifting stories, this show deserves your attention. Whether you’re a die-hard sitcom fan or just looking for something new to binge, give So Help Me Todd a shot. You might find yourself pleasantly surprised!
