The Norm Show (1999)
A disgraced hockey player trades the ice rink for a social work office in this sharp, deadpan ABC sitcom starring Norm Macdonald.
The Norm Show - Series Information
- Original Title: The Norm Show
- First Air Year: 1999
- Last Air Year: 2001
- Created by: Norm Macdonald, Bruce Helford
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Comedy
- Content Rating (US): TV-14
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (22 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 3
- Number of Episodes: 54
- Status: Canceled
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: March 24, 1999 (United States - TV-14)
- Networks: ABC
- Alternative Titles: Norm (US)
- Production Companies: Mohawk Productions, Warner Bros. Television
- Production Countries: United States of America
The Norm Show - Plot
Norm Henderson was once a fairly well-known -- but not particularly good -- professional hockey player. Norm's penchant for gambling and not paying taxes resulted in his permanent expulsion from the game. Instead of jail, he was sentenced to community service as a social worker, where his fresh perspective in the field and lack of patience for office red tape don't always jibe well with his co-workers.
The Norm Show - Trailer
Check out a clip from the series and get a taste of Norm Macdonald's signature comedic style.
Where to Watch The Norm Show
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The Norm Show - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Norm Macdonald
- Bruce Helford
Main Cast
- Norm Macdonald
- Laurie Metcalf
- Ian Gomez
- Max Wright
- Artie Lange
- Faith Ford
- Nikki Cox
- Amy Wilson
- Patricia Belcher
- Kate Walsh
The Norm Show - FAQs
What is The Norm Show actually about?
The Norm Show centers on Norm Henderson, a washed-up professional hockey player whose gambling addiction and tax evasion land him in court. Rather than prison, he's sentenced to community service as a social worker — a role he's spectacularly ill-suited for, leading to comedic clashes with colleagues and clients alike.
Did Norm Macdonald create The Norm Show?
The series was co-created by Norm Macdonald and Bruce Helford. Helford, known for his work on Roseanne and The Drew Carey Show, brought sitcom structure and production experience, while Macdonald shaped the show's distinctive deadpan comedic voice and its lead character, Norm Henderson.
Why was The Norm Show cancelled after three seasons?
The Norm Show struggled with ratings throughout its run on ABC, never quite breaking through to mainstream audiences despite a loyal cult following. After three seasons and 54 episodes, ABC pulled the plug in 2001. The show's offbeat, deadpan humor was beloved by fans but proved a tough sell in primetime.
Who are the main cast members of The Norm Show?
The ensemble cast features Norm Macdonald as Norm Henderson, Laurie Metcalf as Laurie Freeman, Ian Gomez as Danny Sanchez, Max Wright as boss Max Denby, Artie Lange as Norm's brother Artie, Faith Ford as Shelly Kilmartin, and Nikki Cox as Taylor Clayton, among others.
Where can you watch The Norm Show today?
The Norm Show is a tricky find in the modern streaming landscape. No major platform currently hosts the full series. Your best bet is checking region-specific availability via JustWatch, or hunting for physical media. Given renewed interest in Norm Macdonald's legacy, a proper streaming release would be warmly welcomed by fans.
Is The Norm Show based on Norm Macdonald's real life?
Not directly, though Macdonald's own personality and comedic sensibility are woven throughout. The character of Norm Henderson — a morally flexible, gambling-prone former athlete with a gift for awkward honesty — shares DNA with Macdonald's stage persona, but the social worker premise is entirely fictional.
How did critics receive The Norm Show during its run?
Critical reception was mixed but often warm toward Macdonald's performance. Reviewers praised his natural, understated comedic timing and the chemistry with Laurie Metcalf, while some felt the sitcom format occasionally constrained his talents. Over time, the show has earned a devoted cult reputation among fans of Macdonald's unique brand of humor.
What shows are similar to The Norm Show?
If The Norm Show's workplace comedy and deadpan charm appeal to you, try The Office (both the 2001 UK original and the 2005 US version), Brockmire, or Less than Perfect. For a similar blue-collar sitcom feel, WKRP in Cincinnati and Two Guys and a Girl are also worth exploring.
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