“Happy Endings” not so blissful

HAPPY ENDINGS - ABC's “Happy Endings” stars Casey Wilson as Penny, Elisha Cuthbert as Alex, Zachary Knighton as Dave, Adam Pally as Max, Damon Wayans, Jr. as Brad and Eliza Coupe as Jane. (ABC/BOB D'AMICO)

ABC is taking another stab at comedy tonight with its new sitcom “Happy Endings.”

In the pilot, Alex (Elisha Cuthbert) leaves Dave (Zachary Knighton) at the altar, and this breakup affects not only them, of course, but their social circle, as well.

Their social circle consists of Alex’s sister Jane (Eliza Coupe) and her husband Brad (Damon Wayans Jr.); Max (Adam Pally); and Penny (Casey Wilson).

The premise revolves around how this group tries to stay together after the wedding debacle.

The problem is, I didn’t laugh, nor did I want to laugh.

Not only are the lines lacking in humor, but the delivery in most cases seems forced.

And, the characters and situations seem stereotypical and/or unbelievable, as well.

For example, Penny is a single 30-year-old woman afraid she’s not going to meet Mr. Right (Haven’t ever seen that character before!)

And Alex and Dave are a couple that can’t communicate, so she abandons him at their wedding, which gives viewers the chance to see their awkwardness in the aftermath when they’re together with their mutual friends (Would you really want to hang out with your ex – even if it’s with other friends – on a regular basis?)

The good news is ABC does have “Modern Family!”

“Happy Endings” premieres tonight at 8:31, with an additional episode airing at 9, on ABC.

– Melissa Hayer

mhayer@opubco.com