‘A Man on the Inside’: Ted Danson’s Best 2024 Performance

I’m not someone who typically binge-watches an entire series in one sitting. It’s just not in my nature, and I usually prefer to spread out the episodes to prolong the experience. However, every so often, a show comes along that’s so captivating, so effortlessly engaging, that you can’t help but keep watching until it’s over. That was precisely the case with A Man on the Inside, Ted Danson’s latest Netflix dramedy, which I intended to check out for just a couple of episodes last night—only to find myself watching the entire season in one go.

This show is so endearing, so thoroughly enjoyable, that I couldn’t stop. It’s a blend of humor, mystery, and heartwarming moments that’ll make you laugh, tug at your heartstrings, and perhaps even shed a tear or two. A Man on the Inside is without a doubt one of the standout shows of 2024, and Ted Danson’s performance is among his finest, possibly even surpassing his iconic role in The Good Place.

For fans of Michael Schur—known for creating beloved comedies like Brooklyn Nine-Nine and Parks and Recreation—A Man on the Inside feels like a natural extension of his work, though it carries its own unique flavor. Schur, who also co-created The Good Place with Ted Danson, brings a similar blend of sharp wit and emotional depth to this series, though it leans more heavily into the dramatic than some of his other projects.

The premise of A Man on the Inside is deceptively simple. Danson plays Charles, a retired professor of engineering who, following the death of his wife, has settled into a life of quiet solitude. He spends his days mailing newspaper clippings to his daughter and taking solitary walks, content in his own company, yet deeply lonely. Charles, while comfortable in his isolation, is encouraged by his daughter to find something to occupy his time. This leads him to a classified ad for a unique job that will turn his life upside down.

The job involves going undercover as a resident at the Pacific View retirement home to help a private detective, Julie (played by Lilah Richcreek), investigate a jewel thief. The twist? Julie’s investigation is kept secret from everyone at the retirement home, including its director, Didi (Stephanie Beatriz, known for Brooklyn Nine-Nine), who is none the wiser. The setup gives rise to plenty of opportunities for humor, intrigue, and touching moments of connection.

Though the show is inspired by the 2020 documentary The Mole Agent by Maite Alberdi, it’s much more than just a clever whodunit. It’s a deeply emotional exploration of aging, loss, and the unexpected bonds we form in our twilight years. The show strikes a balance between its mystery plot and poignant themes of grief, love, and finding new purpose in life later on.

Charles quickly finds that life at the retirement home is more fulfilling than he anticipated. Despite his initial reservations, he starts forming deep connections with the other residents, many of whom, like him, are grappling with their own losses and aging-related challenges. One of the most touching aspects of the series is Charles’s interactions with his fellow residents, particularly as he deals with the grief of losing his wife and confronting the fact that he’s aging himself. The series handles these themes with a delicate balance of humor and sincerity, reminiscent of other dramedies like Shrinking and Only Murders in the Building.

While A Man on the Inside is a lighthearted and fun watch, it’s also a deeply human story. The show uses its mystery element to keep things engaging while simultaneously exploring the complexities of aging and the emotional struggles that come with it. It’s rare to see a show that so honestly addresses the challenges faced by older adults, particularly in a way that’s both entertaining and respectful.

Throughout the series, the episode titles are an homage to spy novels and mystery stories, many of them referencing works by John le Carré. From titles like “Tinker Tailor Older Spy” to “The Man Who Knew Too Much About Bridges” and “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Painting Class”, the references are a clever nod to the genre while keeping the tone light and playful. Charles’s own reading material—a John le Carré novel—helps reinforce the theme of espionage and the curious nature of his new role as a “spy” in the retirement home.

The series is also filled with plenty of references to spy films and novels, adding another layer of fun for viewers who enjoy the genre. Yet, unlike other shows in this space, it’s not overly quirky or slapstick. Instead, A Man on the Inside remains grounded, with a mix of subtle humor and emotional depth that makes it an incredibly satisfying watch.

Ted Danson’s performance is nothing short of stellar. He brings an understated charm to the role of Charles, capturing the character’s vulnerability, wit, and warmth with ease. It’s clear that Danson has found a role that resonates deeply with him, and his performance is a testament to his incredible range as an actor. He is given ample support by a talented ensemble cast, including Stephanie Beatriz, whose portrayal of Didi adds an additional layer of depth to the show.

If you’re looking for a lighthearted yet emotionally poignant show, A Man on the Inside is a must-watch. While it’s not as fast-paced or zany as some of Michael Schur’s previous works, it offers a more nuanced exploration of themes like aging, loss, and personal reinvention. The show’s mix of humor, heart, and mystery makes it a truly standout series of 2024. The story wraps up neatly by the end of Season 1, though the door is open for potential future seasons.

If you haven’t yet watched A Man on the Inside, I highly recommend it. Ted Danson’s impeccable performance, coupled with the show’s heartfelt and clever narrative, make this a standout series. It’s a rare gem that blends mystery, comedy, and emotional depth, making it well worth your time.