Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Honest, irreverent comedy has language, suicide references.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Work in Progress
What's the Story?
WORK IN PROGRESS follows the life of 45-year-old Abby (Abby McEnany), who describes herself as a "fat, queer d-ke." At the start of the show, Abby has decided that if she can't find meaning in her life in 180 days, she'll end it. But her outlook begins to change when her sister Alison (Karin Anglin) sets her up with 22-year-old trans man Chris (Theo Germaine). Not everyone understands the relationship, including Abby's longtime friend Campbell (Celeste Pechous), but it helps Abby learn to manage her insecurities and stay true to herself while she navigates life's unexpected twists.
Is It Any Good?
This well-written, well-performed series offers an entertaining storyline that's both sweet and irreverent. At the heart of Work in Progress, McEnany's performance interprets her character's insecurities with kindness while still showcasing her trademark humor. Flashbacks to pivotal moments in (fictional) Abby's life and her blunt conversations with other characters—including folks like Julia Sweeney and "Weird Al" Yankovic (who play themselves)—about her vulnerabilities create some awkward yet funny scenarios.
But these conversations also offer deliberate insights into what life can be like as an outsider, as well as the challenges we all face when trying to figure out our purpose on earth. Overall, Work in Progress successfully delivers fresh, derisive comedy with enough sensitivity to make it heartfelt and endearing.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about some of the serious topics approached in Work in Progress. How can comedy can be used to address difficult issues? Do you think there are topics that should never be broached using humor? Why, or why not?
Work in Progress addresses some reasons why people feel insecure about who they are, including body image and not conforming to gender and sexuality expectations. What does it suggest about the role the media plays in heightening these insecurities?
How does the series tackle topics of self-harm and suicide? What should you do if you're worried about a friend or family member? If you or someone you love is in crisis, you can contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.
TV Details
- Premiere date : December 27, 2019
- Cast : Abby McEnany , Theo Germaine , Karin Anglin
- Network : Showtime
- Genre : Comedy
- TV rating :
- Last updated : June 1, 2026
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