In an unprecedented move that has left sitcom fans buzzing with excitement, Netflix has already greenlit a third season for Leanne, the uproarious comedy series starring Leanne Morgan, even before its second season has hit the streaming platform. This bold decision underscores the confidence that both Netflix and legendary producer Chuck Lorre have in the show’s irresistible charm, spearheaded by the comedic brilliance of Kristen Johnston and a cast that echoes the magic of Third Rock From the Sun. With Lorre’s Midas touch for sitcom gold, Leanne is poised to become the next big thing in television comedy, blending heartfelt humor with razor-sharp wit.
At the heart of Leanne is the story of a woman navigating an unexpected new chapter in her life. After her husband of 33 years leaves her for another woman, Leanne, a grandmother facing menopause, rebuilds her world with the support of her quirky family. The show’s multicamera format, a hallmark of Lorre’s signature style, delivers laugh-out-loud moments wrapped in relatable human experiences. The first season, which premiered on July 31, 2025, skyrocketed to Netflix’s Top 10 most-watched shows, captivating audiences with its blend of Southern charm, emotional depth, and side-splitting comedy.
Kristen Johnston, a two-time Emmy winner for her iconic role as Sally Solomon in Third Rock From the Sun, steals the show as Carol, Leanne’s fiercely loyal and hilariously uninhibited sister. Carol is the antithesis of her sister—twice-divorced, child-free, and more likely to be found at a bar than a church pew. Johnston’s performance is a masterclass in comedic timing, her larger-than-life presence and husky voice delivering punchlines with effortless precision. Fans of Third Rock will recognize the same fearless energy she brought to Sally, the alien security officer who grappled with human womanhood in delightfully absurd ways. In Leanne, Johnston channels that same physical comedy and emotional nuance, making Carol a standout character who both supports and challenges Leanne’s journey.
The parallels between Leanne and Third Rock From the Sun are striking, not just in Johnston’s involvement but in the ensemble cast’s ability to elevate every scene. Third Rock, which aired from 1996 to 2001, was a cultural phenomenon, following a group of extraterrestrials posing as a human family to observe Earth’s quirks. The show’s success was driven by its stellar cast—John Lithgow, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, French Stewart, and Jane Curtin—whose chemistry and comedic prowess made it a beloved classic. Johnston’s Sally was the heart of the show, her struggle to embody femininity both hilarious and oddly touching. Similarly, in Leanne, the ensemble cast creates a dynamic interplay, with each actor bringing their own flavor to the family’s chaotic yet loving dynamic. While Leanne is grounded in human struggles rather than sci-fi hijinks, the same spirit of sharp writing and impeccable performances shines through.
Chuck Lorre, the mastermind behind sitcom juggernauts like The Big Bang Theory, Two and a Half Men, and Mom, is the driving force behind Leanne’s success. Known for crafting shows that balance humor with heart, Lorre has a knack for creating characters that feel like family. His reunion with Johnston, who previously starred as Tammy Diffendorf in Mom, is a match made in comedy heaven. Lorre has praised Johnston’s ability to embody flawed, lovable characters, noting that her presence in Leanne was a key factor in the show’s early success. The 16-episode first season, filmed in Los Angeles from October 2024 to April 2025, set the stage for what promises to be a long-running hit.
The decision to greenlight a third season before the second even premieres is a testament to Leanne’s cultural impact. While details about Season 2 remain under wraps, early teasers suggest it will dive deeper into Leanne’s reinvention, with Carol pushing her sister to embrace single life in increasingly outrageous ways. The show’s ability to tackle heavy themes—divorce, aging, and family dynamics—with humor and grace has resonated with audiences worldwide. Fans are already speculating about potential guest stars, crossovers with Lorre’s other shows, and whether Johnston’s Third Rock co-stars might make cameo appearances, given the show’s nostalgic appeal.
What sets Leanne apart is its universal appeal. Like Third Rock From the Sun, which used its alien premise to explore human absurdities, Leanne finds humor in the messiness of life. Whether it’s Leanne navigating the dating world or Carol’s unfiltered take on modern romance, the show captures the chaos and joy of starting over. Johnston’s performance, in particular, has drawn comparisons to her Third Rock days, with critics praising her ability to make even the most outrageous moments feel grounded. Her chemistry with Leanne Morgan, who plays the titular character, is described as instantaneous, their sisterly bond anchoring the show’s emotional core.
As Leanne prepares for its second season, the anticipation for Season 3 is already building. Chuck Lorre’s track record suggests that the show will only get funnier and more heartfelt with time. For fans of Third Rock From the Sun, Leanneoffers a chance to see Kristen Johnston back in her element, delivering the kind of bold, hilarious performance that made her a comedy icon. With Lorre at the helm and a cast that sparkles, Leanne is set to redefine sitcom success, proving that laughter is the best way to navigate life’s unexpected twists.
