“People of Earth” is an American science fiction sitcom television series created by David Jenkins. The show revolves around a support group for alien abductees and the extraterrestrials who had abducted them. The series was originally ordered by TBS under the name “The Group” in May 2015 and was later renamed to “People of Earth.” It premiered on October 31, 2016, on TBS. The storyline follows a city journalist named Ozzie Graham, who, after being skeptical about the group’s claims, begins to recall his own experiences related to alien encounters. The series delves into the interactions between the abductees and the aliens, revealing a deeper plot about an impending invasion and the relationships formed between humans and extraterrestrials. The show ran for two seasons, with a third season announced but later canceled by TBS.
Overview
“People of Earth” is an American science fiction sitcom television series created by David Jenkins. The show revolves around a support group for individuals who have been abducted by aliens, as well as the extraterrestrials responsible for their abductions. The series was initially ordered by TBS under the title “The Group” in May 2015 and later received a 10-episode order in January 2016. It premiered on October 31, 2016, on TBS. The series was renewed for a third season in September 2017, but TBS later reversed this decision and canceled the show in June 2018 with the third season already scripted.
The plot follows city journalist Ozzie Graham, portrayed by Wyatt Cenac, who visits Beacon, New York, to write about a support group named “StarCrossed” comprised of survivors of alien encounters. Initially skeptical, Ozzie soon discovers that he too has had similar experiences. As the series unfolds, Ozzie learns more about the aliens’ intentions and the deeper connections between the members of the support group and the extraterrestrial beings.
Throughout the series, various twists and turns reveal the intricate relationships between the humans and the aliens, as well as the broader conspiracy surrounding the abductions. The show delves into themes of belief, memory, and the human capacity to accept the unexplainable.
Cast and Crew
Cast:
- Wyatt Cenac as Ozzie Graham: A reporter who travels to Beacon to investigate StarCrossed and later realizes he’s an experiencer.
- Ana Gasteyer as Gina Morrison: A therapist.
- Luka Jones as Gerry Johnson: A toll booth attendant passionate about aliens.
- Brian Huskey as Richard Eugene Clancy Schultz: VP of a tech company.
- Alice Wetterlund as Kelly Grady: A temp receptionist at a funeral home.
- Da’Vine Joy Randolph as Yvonne Watson: A postal worker.
- Tracee Chimo as Chelsea Wheeler: A homemaker.
- Nancy Lenehan as Margaret Flood: A retiree.
- Nasim Pedrad as Agent Alex Foster/Crystal: An FBI agent who was abducted as a baby.
- Ken Hall as Jeff: A grey alien working on the spaceship.
- Björn Gustafsson as Don: A white alien working on the spaceship.
- Michael Cassidy as Jonathan Walsh: A reptilian working on Earth as owner of the Glint media empire.
Crew:
- Created by: David Jenkins
- Composer: Mark Mothersbaugh
- Executive producers: Greg Daniels, David Jenkins, Conan O’Brien, and Norm Hiscock.
- Producer: Paula Devonshire
The show revolves around a support group for alien abductees and the aliens who abducted them. It’s a blend of comedy and science fiction, offering a unique perspective on the experiences of those who believe they’ve had encounters with extraterrestrials.
Reception
“People of Earth” has garnered a generally positive reception from television critics. Here’s a summary of the show’s reception:
- Rotten Tomatoes: The first season of “People of Earth” holds an approval rating of 92% based on 24 reviews, with an average rating of 7.25/10. The site’s consensus reads: “People of Earth skillfully grounds its high-concept premise with a strong story, quirky humor, and sweetly relatable humanity.”
- Metacritic: The first season has a score of 72 out of 100, indicating “Generally favorable reviews” based on reviews from 20 critics.
- The New York Times: Mike Hale gave it a positive review, noting that “People of Earth provides a funny line or detail just often enough to keep you watching.”
- Variety: Maureen Ryan praised the series, stating “People of Earth may be slight and decidedly modest in its ambitions and execution, but it’s not a show that sets out to mock or belittle unconventional people.”
- The Hollywood Reporter: Tim Goodman described “People of Earth” as “easily one of the best comedies on television.”
Overall, “People of Earth” has been well-received for its unique premise, humor, and portrayal of its characters.
Impact on Ufology
The TV show “People of Earth” is an American science fiction sitcom that revolves around a support group for alien abductees and the extraterrestrials who abducted them. While the show is primarily comedic in nature, it touches upon various themes related to ufology, the study of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and related phenomena.
However, the content provided does not specifically detail the show’s impact on ufology. Given the comedic and fictional nature of the show, it’s likely that “People of Earth” is more of an entertainment piece rather than a serious contribution to the field of ufology. Still, shows like this can influence public perception and interest in the topic, even if they don’t provide factual or scientific information.
Shows that delve into the topic of aliens and abductions, even in a humorous manner, can spark curiosity and discussions about the possibility of extraterrestrial life and the experiences of those who claim to have had encounters. While “People of Earth” might not have had a direct impact on the academic or scientific study of UFOs, it contributes to the cultural conversation surrounding the topic.
FAQ
Conclusion
“People of Earth” stands as a unique blend of comedy and science fiction, offering viewers a fresh take on the ever-intriguing topic of alien encounters and abductions. Set against the backdrop of a support group for those who believe they’ve had extraterrestrial experiences, the show masterfully balances humor with moments of introspection, prompting audiences to ponder the vastness of the universe and the mysteries it holds.
The series, while comedic in nature, touches upon the human need for connection, understanding, and the quest for truth. Through its diverse cast of characters, both human and alien, “People of Earth” delves into themes of belief, skepticism, and the complexities of human emotions when faced with the inexplicable.
Despite its relatively short run of two seasons, the show managed to carve a niche for itself, resonating with those who appreciate its quirky humor and unique premise. While it may not have been a long-standing series, “People of Earth” left its mark as a memorable exploration of the age-old question: Are we alone in the universe? Through laughter and moments of genuine emotion, the show reminds viewers of the vast possibilities that exist beyond our understanding and the shared human experience that connects us all, regardless of our beliefs.