A cute B storyline in the premiere focuses on the class system rivalry between the main ghosts (i.e. those who are allowed to “live” upstairs in the manor) and the smelly and socially awkward spirits of 19th century cholera victims who are relegated to spend eternity in the basement, staring at the water heater. .... I do like that a program as comfortable and familiar as this one can continue to make us think and grow.

The show is still as broadly comedic as ever and hasn’t lost the charm that made the first two seasons so successful, but there is an extra undercurrent of loss that rises to the surface this season that gives the actors something new to play with.

Ghosts has become a true ensemble show in its third season, and it starts its new season with an episode that shows just how much of a family the ghosts and the “livings” have become.

Season 3 features an even more confident mix of heart and humor, along with a fearless willingness to tell new kinds of stories, beginning from the excitingly uncharted territory of the premiere.

Ghosts is still a smart comedy with solid laughs that strikes the perfect balance between pathos and humor. But for it to take off, it has to effectively manage its deeper conversations of loss through strong, layered writing and give its cast room to deliver strong performances.