Title: The True Story Behind NBC’s “Extended Family” from Real Life to TV Comedy
Introduction:
The NBC sitcom “Extended Family” premiered in 1995, offering a hilarious take on the ups and downs of family life. But behind the laughter and chaos on screen, there’s a real-life inspiration that influenced the show’s creators. In this article, we’ll delve into the true story behind the show’s concept and explore how real-life experiences influenced the making of this beloved comedy.
The Inspiration Behind “Extended Family”
“Extended Family” was created by Steve Kreinberg and Mike Fogel, two friends who drew from their own experiences growing up in close-knit families. The show follows the misadventures of the Winslow family, a boisterous and eccentric group of relatives who share a house in Queens, New York. As the series progressed, it became clear that the creators drew inspiration from their own family dynamics, weaving relatable stories and characters into the narrative.
Kreinberg, who is Jewish, grew up in a family with a large number of cousins and relatives. “I come from a very extended family,” he recalled in an interview. “We had cousins coming and going all the time. It was like a never-ending party, and it was chaotic.” Fogel, on the other hand, was part of a smaller, more traditional family. “My family was more traditional,” he explained. “But I have a lot of relatives, and we always had a big gathering during the holidays. I drew inspiration from those experiences.”
Real-Life Inspiration in Character Development
The show’s characters, too, were heavily influenced by the creators’ own family members. Take, for example, the character of Uncle Jimmy, a lovable but slightly eccentric relative who often caused chaos in the Winslow household. Kreinberg based Jimmy on his own uncle, who would frequently show up uninvited to family gatherings with outlandish stories and antics. “My uncle would tell these wild tales, and we’d all laugh about it,” Kreinberg remembered. “I think that’s where Jimmy came from.”
The show’s matriarch, Grandma Jean, was also inspired by a real-life relative. Fogel’s own grandmother was known for her sharp wit and sassiness, which became the basis for Grandma Jean’s iconic character. “My grandmother was a force to be reckoned with,” Fogel said with a chuckle. “She could talk the ear off a cornfield, and we loved her for it.”
From Real Life to TV Comedy
Throughout the series, the show’s writers incorporated real-life scenarios and family dynamics into the show. Episodes tackled topics like family gatherings, holidays, and even financial struggles. These relatable storylines resonated with audiences, making “Extended Family” a beloved comedy.
In conclusion, the true story behind NBC’s “Extended Family” is one of real-life inspiration and family dynamics. Creators Steve Kreinberg and Mike Fogel drew from their own experiences, incorporating relatable characters and storylines into the show. From the lovable but eccentric Uncle Jimmy to the sassy and wise Grandma Jean, the show’s characters were heavily influenced by the creators’ own family members. As the show remains a beloved comedy to this day, it’s clear that the real-life experiences of its creators continue to inspire laughter and joy in audiences around the world.