Review: Tracy Morgan Shines in NBC Comedy ‘The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins’
Tracy Morgan stars in the new NBC comedy, “The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins,” which explores the life of a former NFL star. The show premieres on January 18, immediately following the NFL playoffs, with a full launch set for February 23.
Synopsis of “The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins”
The series, created by Robert Carlock and Sam Means, introduces Reggie Dinkins, a former top NFL draft pick, played by Morgan. Initially celebrated as a two-time MVP signing with the Jets in 2005, his career took a nosedive due to a public gambling scandal. Now, two decades later, Reggie aims to reshape his legacy.
Character Overview
- Reggie Dinkins: A once-adoring athlete struggling with his past, hoping to be loved once again.
- Monica: Played by Erika Alexander, Reggie’s pragmatic ex-wife who manages his finances.
- Arthur Tobin: Daniel Radcliffe portrays Reggie’s documentarian, seeking to create an honest film about Reggie’s life.
- Supporting Characters:
- Carmelo: Reggie’s son, played by Jalyn Hall.
- Brina: Reggie’s fiancée, portrayed by Precious Way.
- Rusty: Reggie’s best friend, played by Bobby Moynihan.
Plot Details and Themes
Determined to change public perceptions, Reggie hires Arthur to craft a documentary celebrating his life. This blend of reality and its comedic undertones harkens back to successful mockumentaries. While the initial episodes focus on character introductions with familiar comedic elements, they gradually reveal more depth and drama.
Critics noted that early episodes offered limited engagement but found increased momentum by the third and fourth episodes, highlighting Reggie’s lovable imperfections and the insecurities of those around him.
Character Development
As the series progresses, characters like Monica and Rusty begin to evolve from stereotypes into more complex figures. Monica’s transition from a disapproving figure to a rich character grants her a deeper narrative arc. Special attention is paid to exploring the personal lives of supporting characters, such as hints at Carmelo’s future development.
Reception and Outlook
Though the pilot struggled to captivate fully, early reviews indicate an upward trajectory in storytelling and humor with subsequent episodes. The unique comic duo of Morgan and Radcliffe is celebrated for their chemistry, bringing both humor and heart to the series.
Overall, “The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins” is poised to grow, capturing the highs and lows of its central character while engaging audiences with both comedy and insight into the world of a flawed yet lovable athlete. As the series matures, it aims to balance humor with the complexities of personal redemption.
