Ramy Youssef’s Muslim-American Comedy ‘Pitched in Trump Era’ Struggles to Find Place Today

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Ramy Youssef’s “#1 Happy Family USA” series, focusing on a Muslim-American family in America post-9/11 (the first episode is set on September 10, 2001), should not be seen as a reflection of the entire community, the creator clarified to the audience before its premiere at the SXSW TV and Film Festival on March 9.

The show begins with a disclaimer stating it’s not meant as representation, and the speaker shared his complex feelings towards representation in Austin before the premiere. “This series primarily explores capitalism,” he explained, “and I believe after watching the initial episodes, viewers will recognize this theme. However, let me clarify that the show does not represent Arabs or Muslims; many of them may find aspects they admire, while others might wonder why certain actions are portrayed in such a manner.

He also revealed he pitched the A24 series during President Donald Trump’s first run.

He commented, “It’s been that long since then,” referring to a happier period. “You may have noticed, but Trump seems down now,” he said, drawing laughter from the crowd. “I don’t believe he enjoys this either. I haven’t seen him smile once during this time. Normally, he’d be laughing, but not lately. So, here’s a shout-out to him… He certainly doesn’t seem happy!

Following the presentation of the initial three episodes, Youssef welcomed co-showrunner Pam Brady and executive producer and artist Mona Chalabi onto the stage. Chalabi expressed that she instantly visualized the world when she first read the script.

According to Youssef’s disclosure, the entire production of the show was conceptualized by individuals identifying as Muslim. Chalabi had previously handled only fundamental character motion design, but she truly excelled in developing the characters during the writers’ sessions. As Youssef put it, “We all knew she would knock it out of the park.” Additionally, Prime Video fully endorsed this creative process. “We first pitched this idea in 2020,” Youssef said, “but if we came here today, they might respond with something like, ‘What on earth are you talking about?’

In my perspective as a film enthusiast, “Number One Happy Family USA” is all about the Husseins – the most devotedly patriotic, unflappably peaceful, and absolutely-not-suspicious Muslim family living in post-9/11 America. Using wit and absurdity, it challenges our perceptions of humor during challenging times as they journey through the early 2000s under the watchful gaze of their anxious neighbors.

All eight episodes premiere April 17 on Prime Video.

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2025-03-09 22:28