Netflix’s newest sitcom, LEANNE, is already making headlines—even before its first season is fully out. People are calling it “the next Big Bang Theory,” and with comedy legend Chuck Lorre steering the ship, it’s easy to see why. But while stars like Leanne Morgan and Ryan Stiles bring their own sparkle, it’s a surprising new face in the cast who’s swiftly capturing hearts and stealing the scene.
A Sitcom Made with Heart
LEANNE comes from the brilliant mind of Chuck Lorre (Two and a Half Men, The Big Bang Theory), co-created alongside Susan McMartin and its star, Leanne Morgan. The premise: a grandmother’s life is turned upside down after her husband of 33 years leaves her for another woman.
The show is anchored by Leanne Morgan, a powerhouse performer hailing from Appalachia. Her journey—from selling jewelry door-to-door to rising as a comedy star—has been one of laughter and authenticity. Her Netflix special Leanne Morgan: I’m Every Woman made waves in 2023. Since then, she’s released a best-selling book (What in the World?!), appeared in a feature film (You’re Cordially Invited with Reese Witherspoon and Will Ferrell), and is currently smashing her nationwide Just Getting Started tour.
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“Leanne is basically a fictionalized version of me,” she shared. “I’m still happily married—but everything else—raising kids, caring for aging parents, menopause—is real life.”
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The Star-Studded Ensemble
Ryan Stiles plays Bill, Leanne’s husband whose departure kicks off the story. With a rich history in improv and sitcoms (Whose Line Is It Anyway?, The Drew Carey Show, Two and a Half Men), he brings both warmth and relatability. — “This role hits close to home for me,” he said, speaking to themes of divorce, parenthood, and family resilience.
Kristen Johnston co-stars as Carol, Leanne’s sister. Known for 3rd Rock from the Sun and Mom, she brings sharp wit and edge to their dynamic on-screen.
Celia Weston rounds out the cast as Mama Margaret, the duo’s wise and witty mother. With a rich career spanning Dead Man Walking, Modern Family, and more, she brings grace and depth to the family dynamic.
Blake Clark appears as Daddy John—boasting decades of sitcom and film roles (Home Improvement, Toy Story, Happy Gilmore 2).
Graham Rogers plays Tyler, Leanne’s overwhelmed son, torn between parenting a young family and processing his parents’ unexpected split. Rogers has appeared in hits like Atypical, Love, and The Kominsky Method.
Hannah Pilkes co-stars as Josie, Leanne’s feisty daughter. Describing her character to Woman’s World, Hannah says, “She’s super opinionated and mischievous—definitely the wildcard of the family.”
Stealing Hearts Beyond the Headliners
While Morgan and Stiles shine, it’s the younger cast—Graham Rogers and Hannah Pilkes—who are turning heads as breakout favorites. Their nuanced portrayals bring fresh energy and emotional heart to the show. Fans and critics alike are loving the mix of relatability, humor, and generational tension they bring to the story.
Why LEANNE Is Netflix’s Bold Sitcom Bet
With Chuck Lorre’s comedy pedigree, Leanne Morgan’s authentic wit, and a supportive ensemble cast, LEANNE blends heartfelt storytelling with sharp humor. It tackles real-life challenges—midlife upheaval, family bonds, and self-reinvention—with sincerity and charm.
Already, LEANNE is being hailed as more than just a sitcom—it’s a heartfelt, inclusive mirror for modern families, anchored by a breakout cast that audiences are rooting for.
