After being disappointed that my cable provider doesn't provide BounceTV in my area, I was happy to see the premiere episode of Mann & Wife is available online.
Toni (Tamela Mann), a substitute teacher, and Daniel (David Mann), a police officer, are newly weds in Atlanta. Toni has two daughters and Daniel has two sons. Think Brady Bunch, but instead of Alice they have Daniel's mother (JoMarie Payton...yep Harriet Winslow!), and with a lot more bickering between the kids.
The first episode introduces viewers to the life of the Mann's. Daniel's lieutenant (Tom Lister Jr....yep Debo) gives Daniel a partner, played by Tony Rock. This of course sets the stage for some funny scenes between the duo as they adjust to being partners.
Toni's first day subbing at a high school turns out to be for her stepson, DJ's, class. The scenes between the two were some of the best scenes in the episode. At the end of the episode, Toni reveals she was offered an opportunity to permanently sub in the class. So I look forward to seeing the two of them in scenes together in future episodes.
Initially, I was concerned it may be something that was already done. The set's from House of Payne. Toni was a teacher in Meet the Browns. And House of Payne's firehouse could be the same as Mann & Wife's police station. However, it actually gives a completely new story. Unlike some of the shows out with one step parent, this show is a mixed family with both parents having to adjust to being stepparents. And the children have to adjust to their new siblings and step parent. And the Mann's natural chemistry, paired with a story line as newly weds, will definitely make for great tv! I am looking forward to the rest of the season!