Watch Strangers with Candy

Strangers with Candy is an American television sitcom that aired on Comedy Central from 1999 to 2000. Created by Amy Sedaris, Stephen Colbert, and Paul Dinello, the show revolves around the life of Jerri Blank, a 46-year-old ex-con and former drug addict who decides to go back to high school after dropping out decades ago.

Played by Amy Sedaris, Jerri Blank is the main character of the show, and her personality is brash, inappropriate, and utterly hilarious. She is often the center of the action, and her interactions with the other characters are some of the best moments in the series. Although Jerri is constantly getting herself into trouble, she is never portrayed as a victim, and her resilience and determination are what make her such a compelling character.

Stephen Colbert plays Chuck Noblet, a history teacher at Flatpoint High School who is prone to making awkward jokes and double entendres. He is Jerri's nemesis for much of the show, but as the series progresses, their relationship becomes increasingly complex. Chuck's co-worker, Geoffrey Jellineck (played by Paul Dinello), is the art teacher at the school and is often the target of Chuck's affection. Greg Hollimon rounds out the main cast as Principal Onyx Blackman, whose fear of being sued often puts him at odds with the other characters.

The humor of Strangers with Candy is often absurd and over-the-top, and the show is not afraid to tackle controversial topics like racism, drug addiction, and homophobia. However, the show's humor never feels mean-spirited, and the characters are all portrayed with a sense of warmth and affection.

One of the show's signature elements is its use of false nostalgia. The show is set in the 1990s, but it has the aesthetic of a 1970s after-school special. The dialogue is often stilted, and the camera work is intentionally amateurish, which adds to the show's charm.

Each episode of Strangers with Candy follows a loose plot, with Jerri getting herself into increasingly bizarre situations. Whether it's in the classroom, on the playing field, or in her home life, there is always something going on with Jerri, and the audience is never quite sure what to expect next.

Overall, Strangers with Candy is a hilarious and often outrageous show that is not afraid to take risks. The show's use of false nostalgia, complex character relationships, and taboo subject matter make it a standout in the world of sitcoms. While the show only ran for three seasons, it has developed a devoted cult following, and its influence can still be seen in the world of comedy today.

Strangers with Candy is a series that is currently running and has 3 seasons (30 episodes). The series first aired on April 7, 1999.

Where to Watch Strangers with Candy