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The Upshaws (2021)

TV showRated M

IMDb7.0/ 10CTV score7.4/ 10

Where to watch The Upshaws in Australia

All seasons may not be available on every service.

Streaming availability data from JustWatch.

About The Upshaws

Bennie Upshaw, the head of a Black working class family in Indianapolis, is a charming, well-intentioned mechanic and lifelong mess just trying his best to step up and care for his family and tolerate his sardonic sister-in-law, all without a blueprint for success.

Year
2021
Genres
Drama, Comedy, Family, Kids
Seasons
4
Top cast
Mike Epps, Kim Fields, Wanda Sykes, Khali Daniya-Renee Spraggins, Journey Christine

The Upshaws trailer

The Upshaws trailerPlay video: The Upshaws trailer

What our critics think

Independent reviews from the Compare TV editorial team.

Review Team

★★★★★4/5

The Upshaws presents a refreshing take on the family sitcom genre, focusing on the life of Bennie, a mechanic in Indianapolis. The narrative weaves together humour and heartfelt moments, capturing the essence of a working-class family's struggles and triumphs. The performances, particularly from Mike Epps as Bennie, are commendable, showcasing a blend of charm and vulnerability. The series effectively balances comedic elements with serious themes, such as responsibility and familial love, making it relatable to a wide audience. The direction is straightforward but effective, allowing the characters' dynamics to shine. While it may tread familiar ground, The Upshaws manages to carve its niche through its authentic representation of Black family life, earning a solid 4 out of 5 for its engaging storytelling and character development.

Editor Team

★★★★★3/5

The Upshaws is a mixed bag that tries to tickle your funny bone while tugging at your heartstrings. It follows Bennie, played by Mike Epps, who is a lovable mess trying to hold his family together. The show is packed with laugh-out-loud moments, especially thanks to the sharp wit of his sister-in-law. Yet, at times, it feels like it’s recycling familiar sitcom tropes. The characters are relatable, but the plot can be hit or miss, occasionally leaning too heavily on clichés. If you’re in the mood for a light watch that doesn’t require too much thinking, The Upshaws offers some enjoyable moments. However, it may not leave a lasting impression. I’d give it a 3 out of 5; it’s entertaining, but it doesn’t quite reach its full potential.

How viewers describe this

  • heartwarming
  • humorous
  • relatable
  • charming
  • engaging
  • familiar
  • light-hearted
  • mediocre
  • entertaining
  • authentic
  • witty
  • touching

The Upshaws seasons

Streaming Charts

The JustWatch Streaming Charts are calculated by user activity from the last 24 hours.

Got a question about The Upshaws?

Is The Upshaws worth watching?

The Upshaws is definitely worth watching for those who enjoy family-centric comedies. It blends humour with relatable situations, showcasing the challenges of a working-class Black family. The chemistry among the cast, particularly between Bennie and his sister-in-law, adds a layer of authenticity that many viewers will appreciate.

What is The Upshaws really about?

The Upshaws follows Bennie Upshaw, a well-meaning mechanic struggling to support his family in Indianapolis. The series highlights the ups and downs of family life, tackling themes of responsibility, love, and the quest for a better future despite the odds. It’s a comedic yet poignant exploration of everyday challenges.

Where can I watch The Upshaws in Australia?

In Australia, you can watch The Upshaws on Netflix. The platform offers all available episodes, making it easy for viewers to binge-watch this engaging family comedy at their convenience.

Is The Upshaws suitable for children?

The Upshaws is generally suitable for older children and teenagers. While it contains comedic elements and relatable family issues, there are occasional mature themes and language that may not be appropriate for younger viewers. Parental discretion is advised.

What films are similar to The Upshaws?

If you enjoy The Upshaws, you might also like shows like Black-ish, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and Family Reunion. These series similarly explore family dynamics, cultural identity, and the humorous aspects of everyday life.

Is there a sequel to The Upshaws?

As of now, there is no official announcement regarding a sequel to The Upshaws. However, the series has been well-received, which could lead to potential future seasons or spin-offs depending on audience demand and viewership ratings.

Is The Upshaws scary?

The Upshaws is not a scary show; it is a comedy that focuses on family life and the humorous situations that arise from it. Viewers can expect light-hearted moments rather than any horror elements.

What happens at the end of The Upshaws?

Spoiler Alert: At the end of the first season, The Upshaws wraps up several character arcs while leaving some storylines open for exploration. Bennie's journey to become a better father and husband continues, highlighting the ongoing struggles and growth of the family.