Of course, the politician’s frame and his baffling eccentric staff generally feels like a slightly warmed up version of “Veep,” minus the non-stop oath. There’s also a chunk of chorus associated with Neon Bremer of Danson, a mogul retired from the billboard, who ran to impress his teenage daughter (Kyla Kenedy), a comedy-style subplot whose show he probably could not have dispensed with it.
Releasing half an hour back, the first episode carefully sets up the concept and the characters, including Bremer’s harassed chief of staff (“Old Lovell from” Crazy Ex-Girlfriend “), who wonders what and a remnant of the previous administration (“SNL” student Bobby Moynihan), basically saved to have someone to throw under the bus if things go wrong.
Meanwhile, much of the conflict comes from a City Council veteran, Arpi (Holly Hunter, who is far below her acting weight), who is upset to have this newcomer in office.
The real hope for “Mr. Mayor” comes during the second episode, when Bremer makes several public appearances after an unfortunate stop at a pot dispensary. Their altered state produces a series of moments of laughter, and not just brownies talk.
Like “30 Rock,” the jokes are fast-paced and furious, and there’s a special LA-centered vibe, made a little less new by its familiarity. (For starters, distinguishing between second wives and daughters can be a real challenge.)
Fortunately, Danson elevates even the most mundane gags and remains good company if nothing else. There’s also something vaguely reassuring about returning him on Thursdays to NBC, which has been his regular home since “Cheers” opened its doors in 1982.
It is true that many are certainly less inclined to laugh at the current state of politics than to cry. Still, while strangely comforting, watching Danson return to a place where everyone knows his name.
“Mr. Mayor” premieres Jan. 7 at 8 p.m. ET on NBC.