Based on the trailer, this looks like a fairly formulaic sitcom approach to Ted’s earlier years, but there’s plenty of room for fun. Having Ted around during John’s formative years allows for plenty of teenage shenanigans. Considering MacFarlane broke out with his irreverent spin on the animated sitcom with “Family Guy,” I’m hoping he’s got some more tricks up his sleeve for a live-action sitcom.
Having directed, produced, written, and starred in both “Ted” movies, Seth MacFarlane is doing it all again for the Peacock series, including acting as showrunner. Joining him as executive producers, writers, and co-showrunners are Paul Corrigan and Brad Walsh, who both worked on the entire series run of “Modern Family” and nearly two dozen episodes of “King of the Hill.” Erica Huggins, Alana Kleiman, Jason Clark, and Aimee Carlson also serve as executive producers.
Here’s the official synopsis for the “Ted” series from Peacock:
In this comedic prequel event series to the Ted films, it’s 1993, and Ted the bear’s (Seth MacFarlane) moment of fame has passed. He’s now living back home in Framingham, Massachusetts with his best friend, 16-year-old John Bennett (Max Burkholder), along with John’s parents, Matty and Susan (Scott Grimes and Alanna Ubach) and cousin Blaire (Giorgia Whigham). Ted may be a lousy influence on John, but at the end of the day, he’s a loyal pal who’s always willing to go out on a limb for friendship
All seven episodes of “Ted” will debut on Peacock starting on January 11, 2024.