In previous decades, watching television was a social event. Today, viewers sit in front of our computer screens, watching episode after episode on some streaming network they pay too much money to subscribe to. But years ago, friends and family gathered in front of the television screen to laugh together. More than anything, television offered an escape from reality, an opportunity to forget about troubles and have a good experience, no matter for how short a time.

Vicki Lawrence certainly had her work cut out for her when she signed on to star in Mama’s Family, but she was more than willing to take on a challenge. The actor previously starred in The Carol Burnett Show. While the variety series gave her name recognition, she was also excited to forge her own path.

“It’s sort of known in the business that I’m tied umbilically to Carol and don’t care to do anything else,” Lawrence said during an interview with United Press International. “That’s going to be a bit of a problem, but it’s not true.”

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Perhaps even a greater challenge for Lawrence was getting the critics to appreciate her new series, Mama’s Family. According to the actor, many people became too caught up with any deeper meanings that they suspected were hiding beneath the show’s simple premise.

“So many interviewers try to delve into the psychological aspects and the undertones of this,” said Lawrence. “They ask, ‘What do you think your message is and what are you trying to say to America?’”

To Lawrence, the strength of the series wasn’t in any hidden meaning; it was much more straightforward.

“I think the main thing we have on our side is that it’s a funny show,” said the actor. “Even the guys at CBS, where we tape the show, say it’s good to laugh again. The fun has gone out of television - it really has. People just don’t have a good time anymore.”