[The Conners and Black-ish] manage to squeeze humor out of the dismal realities of lockdown and viral surges while still honoring the pain and loss many American families have endured since March. Each household features frontline workers at different ends of the economic spectrum and folks struggling to cope. And each show strikes its own balance of snarky/smart humor, empathy and newsworthy candor, highlighting what it takes to muddle through unprecedented times.

As expected, both sitcoms [black-ish and The Conners] approach the national tragedy in their own unique ways. ... "The Conners" is about as upbeat as late Eugene O'Neill. ... In capable hands, it feels just about right. These hands are capable indeed.