It almost sounds like the setup of an intriguing joke: a cynical relationship podcaster meets a rabbi. While Nobody Wants This, inspired by creator Erin Foster’s own love story, does provide plenty of laughs, it also delves into deeper themes such as interfaith romance, family pressures, and the complex dynamics of sibling relationships. These engaging elements are delivered in easily consumable, brief episodes, adding to the show’s charm.
The series centers on Joanne (Kristen Bell), who operates a successful podcast about sex and relationships alongside her spirited sister Morgan (Justine Lupe). With 119 episodes already under their belt, the series explores their professional and personal lives. On the other hand, we have Noah (Adam Brody), a rabbi who is on the verge of proposing to his seemingly perfect Jewish girlfriend Rebecca (Emily Arlook) when he discovers she’s already wearing an engagement ring. Rebecca’s decision to preemptively start their engagement highlights her assertive personality and ultimately leads to their breakup.
Fate intervenes when Joanne, fresh off a disastrous date, attends a party hosted by her best friend and agent, Ashley (Sherry Cola). Unbeknownst to Joanne, Noah, who happens to be Ashley’s neighbor, is also present at the party. Ashley hopes the gathering will lift Noah’s spirits after his recent breakup. The ensuing meet-cute between Joanne and Noah sets off a series of charming and humorous events, accentuating the palpable chemistry between Bell and Brody.
As Joanne and Noah’s relationship blossoms, they face several obstacles. Notably, Noah’s superior, Rabbi Cohen (Stephen Tobolowsky), insists that Noah needs a Jewish wife if he hopes to become the head rabbi at Temple Chai. Meanwhile, the podcast’s future hangs in the balance as big companies show interest in investing. Morgan begins to notice that Joanne’s content has become less interesting since she started dating Noah, fearing her sister is compromising her identity to please him. This concern sparks tension between the sisters, adding another layer of conflict to the story.
Family dynamics further complicate matters.
. Joanne’s divorced parents, Lynn (Stephanie Faracy) and Henry (Michael Hitchcock), are welcoming and curious about Noah, but Joanne faces skepticism and resistance from Noah’s family. Noah’s mother, Bina (Tovah Feldshuh), is particularly harsh and a significant influence in Noah’s life. Conversely, Noah’s father, Ilan (Paul Ben-Victor), seeks to maintain harmony. His brother, Sasha (Timothy Simons), is supportive, but Sasha’s wife, Esther (Jackie Tohn), who is friends with the exemplary Rebecca, staunchly opposes Joanne.
One of the series’ highlights is the unlikely camaraderie between Sasha and Morgan, who bond over their shared feelings of inadequacy as “loser siblings.” Their friendship provides a humorous and touching sub-plot that enriches the show. Memorable moments include an intense basketball game, efforts to win over the WAGs, nostalgic Jewish camp experiences, and the tension-filled Bat Mitzvah of Sasha and Esther’s daughter, Miriam (Shiloh Bearman).
Joanne grapples with feelings of inadequacy, particularly in comparison to Rebecca, who seems effortlessly perfect and doesn’t seek external validation. Viewers find themselves waiting for Noah’s hidden quirks to surface, much like Carrie Bradshaw’s meticulous scrutiny of Mr. Big in Sex and the City. The show teases this through the peculiar discovery of a cast of Rebecca’s baby foot among Noah’s possessions—an item that is both endearing and slightly eerie.
Nobody Wants This presents a light and binge-worthy experience that defies its title. The episodes, akin to petit fours, are easily devourable, bolstered by the delightful rapport between Bell and Brody. Their chemistry infuses the show with a cheerful and engaging energy, making it a rewarding watch for fans of romantic comedies.
Currently streaming on Netflix, Nobody Wants This proves to be a sweet, entertaining, and somewhat profound journey, thanks to its thoughtful exploration of relationships, familial bonds, and personal identity. Whether you’re looking for a laugh, a cry, or a bit of both, this show offers a little something for everyone.
