MGM+ New Show With 93% on RT Is a Heartfelt Ode to Theatre in the Spirit of 'Ted Lasso'

MGM+ has quietly released American Classic, starring the brilliant Kevin Kline as a narcissistic Broadway star forced to return to his hometown – and it's more than just a homecoming comedy.

American Classic is a warm, wise, and deeply human story about theater, family, and the importance of listening to others.

Comparisons to Ted Lasso and Shrinking are no accident: the show has the same low stakes, enjoyable performances, and understanding that happiness lies in the little things.

What Is 'American Classic' About?

Richard is a fading but still dazzling Broadway star. After the premiere of King Lear, he attacks a theater critic who has been badmouthing him for years. The video leaks online, and the actor is suspended from performances. Then, he receives news of his mother's death.

Richard heads to Millersburg, his hometown, which he left many years ago and has rarely visited since, for the funeral. His brother Jon, wife Kristen, and his niece Miranda, who dreams of a theater career, are waiting for him.

But the biggest shock for Richard is the state of the local theater, which now stages mediocre dinner musicals. Hurt by this, he decides to stage Thornton Wilder's Our Town, starring local residents.

'American Classic' Is the Perfect Pick if You Miss Life-Affirming and Charming Stories Like 'Ted Lasso'

Michael Hoffman and Bob Martin's project ranks alongside Shrinking, Ted Lasso, and the Scrubs reboot – it's a show that strives to be both funny and touching, and it succeeds.

Unlike many other shows about coming home, however, American Classic doesn't contrast big cities with small towns. It reminds us of the charm of the countryside, the kindness of the locals, and how even the most remote places can inspire true art.

Kevin Kline's performance as a self-absorbed narcissist who must learn to communicate with his loved ones is especially enjoyable.

'American Classic' Portrays Small-Town Theater as an Escape From the Harsh Reality of Everyday Life

Richard constantly quotes Shakespeare, Jon and Kristen kept the theater afloat for years, and neighbors helped maintain the building. For Millersburg residents, the theater is more than just entertainment, it's a refuge, a place to escape the terrifying news.

Miranda, the main character's niece, lists military conflicts, a right-wing political shift, racial tensions, and threats of nuclear war – she concludes that theater remains the answer to these external challenges.

The creators of American Classic address current issues gently and without moralizing. Don't expect any revelations, but after watching it, you'll definitely want to support your local small theater.

What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'American Classic'?

• American Classic has 93% from critics on Rotten Tomatoes.

• On IMDb, the series has a score of 6.2/10.