The TV Chick

I love almost everything USA Network has to offer. Their shows are fun, unique and just plain good. So I had high hopes for USA’s newest drama Fairly Legal and it didn’t disappoint. There are a plethora of legal dramas out there right now, most of which I don’t tune into. Procedurals, unless done well and differently (see: The Good Wife aren’t exciting to me. Fairly Legal is a new spin on a legal drama. Sarah Shahi stars as the flawed, funny, kick-ass Kate who used to be a lawyer but is now a mediator. Her father has passed away leaving her to deal with her stepmother (who she’s not a big fan of) and the law firm that her dad no longer works for. You may know Shahi from shows such as The L Wordbut her character Kate is different from any other part she’s played. And then there’s her tumultuous love life. She’s sort of with her ex-husband Justin (played by Michael Trucco) but crushing on another guy. This never leads anywhere good, but I’m excited to see what comes of it.

The supporting cast is also pretty great. My favorite is Kate’s assistant Leonardo, played by Baron Vaughn. He is sassy and matches her energy to a tee. There’s also a fun “Wizard Of Oz” theme/bit that runs throughout the episode that I enjoyed. The show doesn’t take itself too seriously, but it doesn’t have to. It has a light and fun tone to it and leaves the door open for Kate to take on serious cases if the show’s tone goes that way. It also has a bit of darkness and intrigue mixed in with the death of Kate’s father and the rocky relationship with her and her stepmother. Kate is vulnerable, honest, and really good at her job. Shahi’s portrayal is genuine and she shows that she can kick-ass in some killer heels. If you like good and fun dramas, give Fairly Legal a try. I think you will find it as entertaining as I did.

Fairly Legal premieres tonight at 10 pm on USA Network.