It’s the classic “Joey” comedy we’re used to and love, but faithful “Friends” viewers may not be as devoted to the new NBC spinoff sitcom, which debuted last night.

As Joey (Matt LeBlanc) starts his new life in Los Angeles to make it as a big time actor, the reality that life has changed hits hard. Through his sister, Gina (Drea de Matteo), and nephew Michael (Paulo Costanzo), he realizes that change is necessary and uses his newfound wisdom to teach Gina a life lesson.

It seems the new Joey, although still a goofball, has grown up a little. Moving to L.A. was a big step in the life of the “Friend” who didn’t want his New York lifestyle to end and the show does provide enough nostalgia to satisfy old “Friends” – but will it last?

Gina is somewhat obnoxious but her attitude matches the stereotypical Hollywood hairdresser she portrays. She is, however, nothing like Joey’s former female counterparts from “Friends” and may disappoint fans who related to the famous New York cast of six.

On the other hand, if not compared to the infamous “Friends” that we are bound to miss, “Joey” could prove to be a hit and may even become the “Friends” of the next generation. – Aimee Dolloff

Also, finally, after a couple of weeks of so-so offerings this fall, a quality new drama is on the horizon this weekend.

By its title, it’s easy to surmise that “Jack & Bobby,” debuting at 9 p.m. Sunday on WB, has political overtones, but it’s first and foremost a family drama. How about that, another family drama on Sunday night, to go with NBC’s “American Dreams”?

“Jack & Bobby” has an intriguing premise: What if you could watch a future presidential great grow up? (Not surprisingly, Thomas Schlamme, an integral part of the best years of “The West Wing,” is an executive producer.)

The series centers on the McCallister family. Jack, the older brother, is the charismatic natural leader. Bobby, the younger sibling, has a big heart and a sharp mind but is a social misfit. Sickly Bobby has long been the favored son of their single mother, Grace, an eccentric history professor at a Midwestern college.

The touching present-day scenes with the McCallisters are interspliced with documentary interviews from 2049, reflecting on the recently completed McCallister presidency. The premiere episode keeps viewers guessing as to which brother became president until nearly the very end.

Christine Lahti (Schlamme’s wife) has another force-of-nature role in Grace. But this character displays more facets than she exhibited as Dr. Kathryn Austin on “Chicago Hope.”

Equally believable is the uneasy relationship between popular Jack (Matthew Long) and his outcast, tag-along baby brother Bobby (Logan Lerman), who are now attending the same school. Jack loves his little brother; he just wishes Bobby knew how to conform.

“Jack & Bobby” continues WB’s win streak of quality dramas, which includes “Everwood,” “Gilmore Girls” and “Smallville.” It presents viewers with a kinder, gentler alternative in its time slot. Here’s a chance for those bemoaning the lack of family programming to stand up and be counted. – Dale McGarrigle

Aimee Dolloff can be reached at 990-8130 and adolloff@bangordailynews.net. Dale McGarrigle can be reached at 990-8028 and dmcgarrigle@bangordailynews.net.