Prime Video has unveiled its latest adult animated series, “#1 Happy Family USA,” which immerses viewers in the life of a Muslim American family residing in New Jersey during the turbulent post-9/11 era. Co-created by Ramy Youssef and Pam Brady, this animated adventure offers a unique mix of comedy and satire, navigating the complexities and sensitivities of a post-9/11 world. The collaboration between these two comedic minds sets the stage for a series that is both hilarious and thought-provoking.
“#1 Happy Family USA” is presented in an adult animation style. The visual aesthetic is heavily influenced by the involvement of British-Iraqi illustrator and writer Mona Chalabi, who serves as creative director and executive producer.
Plot Overview
The official synopsis describes the Hussein family as “maniacally optimistic,” “the most patriotic, peaceful, and definitely not suspicious” people in post-9/11 America. Through a satirical and absurdist lens, the series aims to find humor in the challenges the Hussein family faces as they navigate the early 2000s under the watchful eyes of their nervous and terrified neighbors.
Meet the Characters
At the heart of this narrative is Rumi Hussein, a sweet and shy 12-year-old boy voiced by Ramy Youssef himself, who serves as the emotional anchor of the series. The family unit also includes Hussein Hussein, the patriarch, also voiced by Youssef. A former thoracic surgeon in Egypt, Hussein now runs a halal food cart in New York City, constantly grappling with the anxiety of providing for his family and proving his unwavering patriotism. Sharia Hussein, Rumi’s mother, is portrayed with sharp wit by Salma Hindy, and is depicted as a born-again Muslim with a distinctive perspective on American culture. Rounding out the immediate family is Mona Hussein, the teenage daughter, voiced by Alia Shawkat.
The Creators of “#1 Happy Family USA”
Ramy Youssef is the series’ main creator, an award-winning Egyptian-American creator, actor, producer, director, and comedian known for his vibrant voice and unique storytelling perspective. Youssef, acclaimed for his critically praised Hulu series “Ramy” and his insightful stand-up specials, draws heavily on his own childhood memories as a Muslim in post-9/11 America for this animated series.
Joining him as co-creator and showrunner is Pam Brady, an Emmy-winning writer known for her work on the irreverent animated series “South Park,” as well as the comedy films “Hot Rod” and “Hamlet 2.” This collaboration brings together Youssef’s deeply personal experiences and Brady’s expertise in crafting sharp and satirical adult animation.
Together, they serve as co-executive producers of the series, guiding its comedic and narrative direction.
Where to Watch “#1 Happy Family USA”
