The Orville

This show continues to impress me. Though it has many comedic moments, it succeeds in so many additional ways. The stories are invariably rich and depthful, addressing many current social issues including LGBTQ rights; the negative effects of an overly aggressive, masculine society; learning to love someone whose culture and beliefs are radically different than one's one; friendship; marital conflict due to different values; and creating a healthy relationship with one's ex, post divorce (or other break up). Each episode has great warmth and kindness at it's core and the writing is truly excellent. The special effects are top notch and the make-up and masks are superb. They rival the best of what I've seen on Star Wars, Star Trek, Babylon 5, etc. Though their visage is typically very creative and 'out there', the 'aliens' aren't so alien; I love the dialogue between some of the less significant non-human crew members. Seth McFarlane should be commended. He's a very clever boy. A decent actor, an excellent show-creator and director, and he's a darned good singer, as well. What can't he do?

Great show. Definitely puts the sub-standard writing & acting of Star Trek to shame.

Season two is still poking fun at Star Trek, but as an homage rather than in a snarky manner. Still dealing with current issues in our society--especially those issues we use to divide ourselves or to hold others lower in esteem than ourselves. Lots of silliness thrown in to keep the overall tone light. Really great alien costumes and makeup.

.
How has this show not been sued into oblivion?
.
The SFX are really good and it's fun to watch more often than not but EVERY episode either references Star Trek multiple times or completely rips it off.
.