So here we go. The second era of 'My Family'. The big difference being that break out star Kris Marshall had left (and would not return) and therefore the much loved character of Nick, who had provided often the funniest moments, was written out.
The show had weathered the storm well in the fifth series, in which Marshall only appeared twice, but now permanent action had to be taken. Sitcoms have throughout history survived departures, and 'My Family' would too, but the golden era was over.
Idiots Abi and Roger would be pushed further forward, and with an increased focus on their 'will they/won't they' relationship, and wiser than he looks Alife Butts entered the fray. These characters were fine, but they were always a little too offbeat for a show that had started off being so true to life.
If anything Ben and Susan become cartoonish versions of how they were at the start, with the writers also attempting to turn Michael into a sort of Nick clone. It would not be the last time silly changes were made to this character.
I love 'My Family' (yes, even the very weak series 11 where it really was time to go) but I don't think there's any real denying that the quality was lower in the second era.
