If you’re in the mood for a grounded, hilarious, and heartwarming look at a modern Black working-class family navigating life’s ups and downs, then Netflix’s “The Upshaws” is the perfect multi-camera sitcom for you. With an all-star cast and relatable scenarios, it’s a show that genuinely feels like coming home.
What is “The Upshaws” about?
“The Upshaws” centers on Bennie Upshaw (Mike Epps), a charming, well-intentioned but often-messy mechanic and patriarch of a Black working-class family in Indianapolis, Indiana. He’s doing his best to step up and care for his family, which includes his sharp and resilient wife, Regina (Kim Fields); their two young daughters, Aaliyah (Khali Spraggins) and Maya (Journey Christine); and his eldest son, Bernard Jr. (Jermelle Simon).
Life for the Upshaws is rarely simple. Complicating matters is Bennie’s teenage son, Kelvin (Diamond Lyons), from a previous relationship with Tasha (Gabrielle Dennis). Adding even more friction (and a lot of laughs) is Regina’s sardonic older sister, Lucretia (co-creator Wanda Sykes), who is also Bennie’s business partner and his biggest critic. Despite their constant squabbles, financial struggles, and various curveballs life throws their way, the Upshaws are determined to make it work, finding strength and humor in their enduring family bonds. The show excels at portraying the realities of blended families, evolving relationships, and the everyday challenges of the working class with an authentic touch.
Why “The Upshaws” is a must-watch:
- Hilarious & Relatable: The humor stems from real-life situations and the characters’ strong personalities. From everyday mishaps to more significant family drama, the show finds the funny in it all, making it incredibly relatable.
- Stellar Cast Chemistry: Mike Epps, Kim Fields, and Wanda Sykes lead an exceptional ensemble. Their comedic timing and believable dynamics as a family (and in-laws!) are a major highlight of the series. Wanda Sykes also serves as a co-creator, bringing her unique voice and comedic sensibility.
- Authentic Portrayal of a Black Family: The show is praised for offering a refreshing and authentic depiction of a working-class Black family, showcasing their struggles and triumphs with dignity and humor.
- Classic Sitcom Feel with a Modern Edge: It blends the comforting, familiar structure of a multi-camera sitcom with contemporary themes and a slightly edgier, more candid approach to family life.
- Heart and Depth: While primarily a comedy, “The Upshaws” also delves into emotional journeys and character development, showing how the family navigates conflicts, personal growth, and financial challenges with love and resilience.
Where to Watch “The Upshaws”:
“The Upshaws” is a Netflix original series. All available seasons (including Part 6, which premiered in early 2025) are exclusively available to stream on Netflix. A final Part 7 has been announced.
If you enjoyed “The Upshaws,” you might also like:
- Family Reunion (for another Netflix multi-camera sitcom about a large Black family)
- The Neighborhood (for a contemporary CBS sitcom focusing on a Black family)
- Living Single (a classic 90s sitcom featuring Kim Fields in an ensemble cast)
- Black-ish (for a family sitcom exploring modern Black identity and social issues)
- Everybody Loves Raymond (for a classic sitcom exploring the dynamics of a close-knit, often-frustrating family)