NBC’s latest comedy offering, Extended Family, is generating buzz, and for good reason. This multi-cam sitcom dives into the complexities of modern family dynamics with a comedic twist. The show centers around a divorced couple navigating co-parenting, only for things to get hilariously complicated when the ex-wife starts dating the owner of her ex-husband’s beloved sports team. With a witty script penned by veteran television writer Mike O’ Malley and a team of executive producers including Tom Werner, Wyc Grousbeck, Emilia Fazzalari, and George Geyer, Extended Family promises laughs and relatable scenarios. But what truly makes this show shine is its ensemble cast. Featuring a mix of sitcom veterans and fresh faces, the Extended Family cast is packed with talent. Ready to get acquainted with the actors bringing these characters to life? Here’s your guide to the cast of Extended Family, and where you might recognize them from.
Jon Cryer as Jim
Leading the Extended Family cast is sitcom royalty, Jon Cryer, embodying the character of Jim. Jim is the recently divorced dad who finds himself in a particularly awkward situation – watching his ex-wife fall for the charismatic owner of his favorite sports franchise.
Cryer is no stranger to making audiences laugh. He cemented his place in television history as Alan Harper in the iconic CBS sitcom Two and a Half Men. For twelve seasons and a staggering 262 episodes, Cryer played the lovable but often hapless Alan, earning him two Primetime Emmy Awards. He won Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series in 2009 and Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series in 2012, showcasing his comedic range and talent.
Beyond his sitcom success, Cryer’s career spans decades. Many fans fondly remember his breakout role as Duckie Dale in the classic 80s film Pretty in Pink. He also took on a dramatically different role as Lex Luthor in the CW series Supergirl, proving his versatility as an actor. Cryer’s journey in entertainment, from his early aspirations as a child in New York City to his current role in Extended Family, is a testament to his enduring appeal and comedic prowess. His experience and timing are sure to be a cornerstone of what makes Extended Family a must-watch comedy.
Abigail Spencer as Julia
Taking on the role of Julia, Jim’s ex-wife, is the talented Abigail Spencer. Julia is the ex-wife whose new relationship sparks the central comedic conflict of Extended Family. Spencer brings a blend of warmth and wit to the character, making Julia both relatable and engaging.
Audiences will likely recognize Spencer from her significant role as Dana Scott in the legal drama Suits. Appearing in 15 episodes across multiple seasons, Spencer’s Dana Scott was a Harvard Law graduate and a recurring love interest for Harvey Specter. Her portrayal of the intelligent and complex Dana solidified her as a fan favorite.
Spencer’s career is marked by diverse and memorable roles. She began her television journey on the soap opera All My Children and later portrayed Suzanne Farrell in Mad Men. She also played Dr. Megan Hunt in Grey’s Anatomy, showcasing her range across genres. Notably, Spencer starred as Amantha Holden in the critically acclaimed series Rectify, demonstrating her ability to tackle complex and nuanced characters. Adding to her already impressive resume, Spencer’s role as Julia in Extended Family allows her to showcase her comedic talents, promising a compelling and funny portrayal of a modern ex-wife navigating new romantic territory.
Abigail Spencer brings her talent to NBC’s ‘Extended Family’. Photo: NBC
Donald Faison as Trey
Completing the central trio of Extended Family is Donald Faison, playing Trey. Trey is the owner of Jim’s favorite sports team and the new man in Julia’s life, setting the stage for plenty of comedic friction. Faison’s natural comedic timing and charm make him perfectly suited for this role.
Faison first captured audiences’ hearts as Murray Duvall in the 1995 hit movie Clueless. However, he is perhaps best known for his iconic role as Dr. Chris Turk in the beloved NBC medical comedy Scrubs. For nine seasons, Faison’s Dr. Turk was a central figure, celebrated for his bromance with J.D. and his own brand of confident yet caring humor. The role cemented Faison as a comedic force.
Beyond Scrubs, Faison has demonstrated his versatility, taking on roles in series like Emergence, where he played Alex Evans. Despite being recognized as Turk, Faison has successfully branched out, showcasing his range as an actor. Like his Scrubs character, Faison is a dedicated family man in real life, adding another layer of authenticity to his roles. His experience in multi-camera sitcoms, including The Exes, makes him a perfect fit for Extended Family, where his comedic skills are sure to shine as Trey navigates the delicate dynamics of his new relationship with Julia and her ex-husband, Jim.
Sofia Capanna as Grace
Stepping into the role of Grace, Jim’s daughter, is rising star Sofia Capanna. Grace is part of the younger generation navigating the complexities of her parents’ evolving relationships in Extended Family. Capanna brings a fresh and youthful energy to the cast.
While Extended Family marks a significant role for Capanna, she has previously appeared in the television pilot Bucktown. In Bucktown, she played Jodeci, the daughter of Jane Lynch’s character, described as a positive and unique teenager. Although Bucktown wasn’t picked up for a full series, it provided Capanna with valuable on-screen experience and showcased her potential. As Grace in Extended Family, Capanna is poised to make a strong impression, bringing a relatable teenage perspective to the sitcom’s family dynamics. Keep an eye on Sofia Capanna – she’s one to watch in the Extended Family cast.
Finn Sweeney as Jimmy Jr.
Rounding out the on-screen family is Finn Sweeney, playing Jim’s son, Jimmy Jr. Jimmy Jr. is the other half of Jim and Julia’s children, completing the family dynamic at the heart of Extended Family. Sweeney, like Capanna, is a rising talent adding to the show’s fresh appeal.
Extended Family is Sweeney’s first major series role, but he has already garnered attention for his appearances in notable shows. He played John Berkman Jr. in the series finale of HBO’s acclaimed Barry. Sweeney also appeared in the premiere of American Crime Story and the pilot of the comedy series Platonic, accumulating diverse credits early in his career. As Jimmy Jr., Sweeney is set to showcase his comedic timing and acting abilities on a larger stage. His portrayal of Jim’s son will undoubtedly add to the humor and heart of Extended Family.
Extended Family premiered on Saturday, December 23rd on NBC, with weekly episodes airing Tuesdays at 8:30/7:30c on NBC. Episodes are available to stream the next day on Peacock. With its stellar cast and hilarious premise, Extended Family is set to be your next sitcom obsession. Tune in to watch the talented cast of Extended Family bring this modern family comedy to life!
