Mindy Kaling strikes comedy gold with ‘Champions’

Brian Connors Arts and Entertainment Editor

After “The Office” stopped airing in 2013, NBC had trouble getting any of its new comedies to stick. However, in more recent years, the peacock network finally found its comical footing with hits such as “Superstore” and “The Good Place.” Its new show, “Champions” – created by the hilarious Mindy Kaling – is yet another strong entry into NBC’s catalog of comedies. “Champions” premiered March 8.

“Champions” follows Vince Cook who runs a Brooklyn gym with his brother, Matthew. His life is turned upside down when his high school girlfriend shows up with their openly-gay son Michael.

Michael was moving to the city to attend a prestigious performing arts school. Unfortunately, the professor that recruited him had “ulterior motives” and Michael is forced to re-audition. In need of a place for Michael to stay, his mother seeks out Vince in hopes he will take Michael in.

The premiere of “Champions” was an absolute delight. The story was adorable and, although the show’s set-up is basic, the cast elevates the material with killer chemistry and spot-on delivery. “Champions” boasts a strong cast including Anders Holm (“Workaholics”) and Fortune Feimster (“The Mindy Project”). Kaling also stars in the supporting role of Priya, Michael’s mother.

The standouts in the premiere were J.J. Totah and Andy Favreau, who play Michael and Matthew, respectively. Favreau’s portrayal of the dumb jock is hilarious. He breathes new life into the tired archetype and steals every scene.

Totah’s role is delightfully funny – he is Mindy Lahiri from “The Mindy Project” in a little boy form. Totah was certainly born to play the role. He delivers every line with the perfect amount of sass. Faces are guaranteed to light up every time he drops a “Les Misérables” reference or belts out a tune.

“Champions” continued to impress in its second episode. The show let its main characters shine in addition to building up a strong batch of supporting characters. Vince’s girlfriend Britney is very funny, and his Uncle Bud is equally comical.

Overall, “Champions” is a real treat. It has a cute premise and a hilarious cast. The writing is classic Kaling and entertains wildly throughout the show’s half hour, making it a comedy to keep your eye on. It airs Thursday nights on NBC.