The Norm Show

Synopsis

The Norm Show, a unique sitcom that aired from 1999 to 2000, stars the legendary Norm Macdonald as Norm Henderson, a former NHL player who, after a stint in rehab for gambling, is forced to work as a social worker to pay off his debts. With a sardonic sense of humor and a cast of quirky characters, including his boss, the strict and no-nonsense Mrs. Duffy, and his close friends, Norm navigates the ups and downs of social work while offering a comedic critique of life in the suburbs. Each episode showcases Norm's deadpan humor and penchant for absurdity as he interacts with clients, confronts his own shortcomings, and tries to keep his friends in line. The show cleverly blends satirical commentary on social norms with everyday challenges, making it a memorable, if short-lived, entry in the realm of late '90s television comedy.

Cast

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  Norm Macdonald

  Norm Henderson

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  Laurie Metcalf

  Laurie Freeman

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  Ian Gomez

  Danny Sanchez

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  Max Wright

  Max Denby

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  Artie Lange

  Artie Henderson

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  Faith Ford

  Shelly Kilmartin

Reviews

The Norm Show has garnered a mix of accolades and critiques since its premiere. With an IMDb rating of 7.8/10, many praised Norm Macdonald’s distinctive comedic style and the show's offbeat humor. According to Rotten Tomatoes, the show stands out for its 'quirky writing and Macdonald's signature deadpan delivery.' Critics from Metacritic have noted that while it may not have reached the critical heights of other contemporary sitcoms, it delivers consistent laughter and fresh takes on familiar sitcom tropes. 'Norm's refreshing humor is a breath of fresh air in a sea of predictable jokes,' commented a reviewer from The New York Times. However, some viewers felt that the show struggled with pacing and character development at times, leading to a less cohesive narrative overall. Despite these critiques, many fans remain loyal, celebrating the series as an underrated gem in Macdonald's oeuvre. Overall, The Norm Show holds a warm place in the hearts of those who appreciate dry wit and unconventional storytelling, ensuring its legacy as a cult classic.