mixed-ish (2019)

A nostalgic, heartfelt comedy about growing up mixed-race in 1980s America, told through Rainbow Johnson's vivid childhood memories.

mixed-ish - Series Information

  • Original Title: mixed-ish
  • First Air Year: 2019
  • Last Air Year: 2021
  • Created by: Peter Saji, Kenya Barris et al.
  • Type: TV Series
  • Genres: Comedy
  • Content Rating (US): TV-PG
  • Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (22 minutes)
  • Number of Seasons: 2
  • Number of Episodes: 36
  • Status: Canceled
  • Original Language: English
  • Spoken Languages: English
  • First Air Date: September 24, 2019 (United States - TV-PG), September 24, 2019 (Spain - 12), September 24, 2019 (South Korea - 12)
  • Networks: ABC
  • Production Companies: ABC Studios, Khalabo Ink Society, Cinema Gypsy Productions, Artists First
  • Production Countries: United States of America

mixed-ish - Plot

Rainbow Johnson recounts her experience growing up in a mixed-race family in the '80s and the constant dilemmas they had to face over whether to assimilate or stay true to themselves.

mixed-ish - Trailer

Preview the series and get a taste of the Johnson family's colorful world:

A classic-ish out of water comedy.

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mixed-ish - Cast & Crew

Creator(s)

  • Peter Saji
  • Kenya Barris
  • Tracee Ellis Ross

Main Cast

  • Tracee Ellis Ross
  • Arica Himmel
  • Tika Sumpter
  • Mark-Paul Gosselaar
  • Ethan William Childress
  • Mykal-Michelle Harris
  • Gary Cole
  • Christina Anthony
  • Isabel Myers
  • Trinitee

Writers

  • Peter Saji
  • Jim Brandon
  • Angela Nissel
  • Brian Singleton
  • Heather Flanders

Executive Producers

  • Randall Keenan Winston
  • Karin Gist
  • E. Brian Dobbins
  • Kenya Barris
  • Laurence Fishburne

mixed-ish - FAQs

Is mixed-ish a spin-off of another series?

Yes, mixed-ish is a prequel spin-off of black-ish (2014). It follows a young Rainbow Johnson — the same character played by Tracee Ellis Ross in the parent series — as she grows up in a mixed-race family during the 1980s, exploring the identity questions that shaped her adult perspective.

What is mixed-ish about?

The show follows Rainbow Johnson as she narrates her childhood in a mixed-race family during the 1980s. Each episode explores the push and pull between assimilating into mainstream culture and staying true to their blended identity — delivering laughs alongside surprisingly heartfelt moments about belonging and self-discovery.

Where can you stream mixed-ish?

You can stream mixed-ish on Hulu. If you prefer to own the episodes, they are available to purchase on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, and Fandango At Home.

Why was mixed-ish cancelled after two seasons?

ABC cancelled mixed-ish in May 2021 after two seasons and 36 episodes. While the show attracted a loyal audience, its ratings declined in Season 2, and the network ultimately chose not to renew it. The cancellation came alongside several other ABC comedy cuts during that period.

Who are the main actors in mixed-ish?

The ensemble cast includes Tracee Ellis Ross as adult narrator Bow Johnson, Arica Himmel as young Bow, Tika Sumpter and Mark-Paul Gosselaar as her parents, and Ethan William Childress, Mykal-Michelle Harris, Gary Cole, and Christina Anthony rounding out the family and supporting roles.

Who created mixed-ish?

mixed-ish was created by Peter Saji, Kenya Barris, and Tracee Ellis Ross. Kenya Barris is also the creator of the original black-ish series, while Tracee Ellis Ross — who stars as the adult narrator — brought her personal investment in the story as both creator and executive producer.

How was mixed-ish received by critics?

Critics generally responded warmly to mixed-ish, praising its nostalgic 1980s setting, the charm of young lead Arica Himmel, and its willingness to tackle race and identity with a light but sincere touch. Tracee Ellis Ross's narration was frequently highlighted as a warm and witty anchor for the series.

What are some shows similar to mixed-ish?

If you enjoyed mixed-ish, you'll likely love black-ish and its other spin-off grown-ish. Beyond the franchise, Modern Family, Young Sheldon, and One Day at a Time offer a similar blend of family comedy with genuine heart. Raven's Home is another great pick for family-friendly laughs with cultural warmth.

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