User Reviews

When Call Me Kat premiered I wrote a review saying that I hoped it would get better. That pilot was something of a hot mess. It had a great moment at the end, but the show just didn't work. The only thing I didn't really criticize in that review was Leslie Jordan, who I noted was an excellent addition.

The show did get better, very much so. They slowly retooled the show into something special. There are still some uneven moments that show the writer's room still needs some work, but it has been an enjoyable ride. One of the best elements is how they developed the Phil character. He was probably the best thing about the show. I am so glad with how this episode ends his story arc.

How they will continue on without Leslie in the show is an open question. I question whether they will choose to continue after this season, but I hope they do. If they do will still be fun to watch the ride.

What do the makers of this show do when Leslie Jordan passes on ? They have the good sense to call on Vicki Lawrence, his co-star from The Cool Kids, a delightful series that Fox shamefully cancelled in 2019 to make way for WWE programs. Lawrence, right out of high school was hired by Carol Burnett for her show and, as a result, was trained by Burnett, Harvey Norman, Tim Conway and the many great guest stars Burnett had on her show. Ultimately, Lawrence was nominated for several Emmys, winning one year and, after Burnett quit her show, Lawrence enjoyed great success on her own show, Mama's Family. This beloved actress has wonderful comedic talents, with perfect timing and delivery. In this episode, they are in full display, as she plays the mother of Phil ( Leslie Jordan). Hilariously acerbic at first, in the second half, she also brings a moving sentimentality to the story without being maudlin, another of Lawrence's specialities.

The script here is really a fine tribute to Jordan, as we find out Phil's whereabouts - he's gone on to greener pastures, but not deceased, all with the blessing of his treasured Mama.

Can the show survive without him ? Well, the entire regular cast gives it their all here, and they can be fun and likable. But, while Jordan may be irreplaceable, the producers maybe should consider having Lawrence and other seasoned talented performers appear in episodes more often.

Oh, and there is a touching, but ultimately uplifting, tribute by America's treasure, Dolly Parton, at the end.

Thanks to the writers, Parton, the regular cast of this show, and, particularly, Lawrence, Jordan and Phil received an entertaining and fond farewell.