From the creator of The Good Place comes Abby’s, a hilarious new NBC comedy about the best neighbourhood bar in San Diego – home to low prices, good company and, of course, Abby (Natalie Morales).
This unlicensed, makeshift establishment in Abby’s backyard is the perfect gathering place for locals to find camaraderie and sanctuary. To maintain the perfect bar ecosystem, all patrons must abide by a specific set of rules. This includes no cell phones (not even to look something up), understanding that rising through the hierarchy to earn a seat at the bar takes time and knowing that losing a challenge may have some unpleasant and unpalatable drink-related repercussions.
As a bar owner, Abby has found her true calling hosting friends and newcomers alike. No-nonsense Abby is ex-military, having served two tours as a staff sergeant in the Marines. Her world is shaken when new landlord Bill (Nelson Franklin), who recently inherited the house from his deceased aunt, unexpectedly shows up and cites all kinds of reasons why the whole venture is illegal. Newly divorced, he is a cautious worrier and definite non-risk-taker who eventually warms to the place and agrees to let the bar remain open, provided Abby makes some changes.
The cast of regulars also includes Fred (Neil Flynn), a fixture at the bar who is grateful for a place to enjoy a beer and conversation – and refuses to allow some bureaucratic busybody to disrupt his perfect refuge; Beth (Jessica Chaffin), a harried mother living next door who can escape the madness of her home life while still keeping an eye on things from her perch atop a bar stool; Rosie (Kimia Behpoornia), the bar manager who prides herself on having memorised all 162 rules and regulations; and James (Leonard Ouzts), the gentle scaredy-cat of a bouncer who crumbles in the face of confrontation.
As any regular patron of Abby’s will attest, hanging out there is a coveted honour. And once you’re in, you’re family.
In addition to executive producing, Josh Malmuth (New Girl) also serves as showrunner. Michael Schur (The Good Place) and David Miner (The Good Place) also executive produce. Pamela Fryman directed the pilot. Abby’s is shot completely outdoors in front of a live studio audience, the first time a multi-camera comedy has done so.
Starring Natalie Morales (Parks and Recreation), Neil Flynn (The Middle), Nelson Franklin (New Girl), Jessica Chaffin (Big Mouth), Leonard Ouzts (Set It Up), and Kimia Behpoornia (Unicorn Store).
The new series premieres March 28th at 9.30/8.30c on NBC.
