INDIANAPOLIS — Kevin Kline American Classic centers on Richard Bean, a Broadway star who returns to his hometown after experiencing a public breakdown. Set in a family theater in Indianapolis, the story follows Richard as he attempts to save the theater by directing and starring in a new play, all while facing tension with his brother Jon Bean and Jon’s wife, Kristen Forrest Bean, who is also the town’s mayor and Richard’s former girlfriend.
The Complex Dynamics of a Family Reunited by Theater
Richard Bean’s unexpected return ignites old conflicts within the family, reflecting both personal drama and a passionate commitment to the arts. Jon Tenney, who plays Richard’s brother Jon Bean, describes the show as a tribute to both theater and community. He said,
“I’m so proud of it. I think overall, the show celebrates the theater, but it also is a celebration of community and of family and of what it really takes to bring people together to create something — not just a play — but create something of value and importance and beauty in the world.”
Jon Tenney adds,
“I couldn’t be more proud to put this sort of uncynical story out in the world right now. I think it’s very good timing, and we need a story like this.”
Renowned Cast Brings Depth to the Production
Alongside Kevin Kline, the series features Emmy winner Laura Linney as Kristen Forrest Bean, amplifying the emotional complexity of the family saga. Multiple Tony Award winners and nominees also contribute to the production, including Len Cariou of “Sweeney Todd” fame, Tony Shalhoub known for “The Band’s Visit” and “Act One,” and Jane Alexander, Aaron Tveit, Stephen Spinella, and Jessica Hecht, all respected figures from Broadway.
Nell Verlaque, who portrays Miranda Bean—Jon and Kristen’s daughter—shared her amazement at sharing the stage with such accomplished performers, saying,
“It’s surreal. I’m a native New Yorker, so I’ve grown up here, and I grew up going to shows and theater school, and these are legends, absolute legends.”
She described the stamina required for theater performers:
“It’s a specific type of actor that has the stamina to do those things over and over again that, to me, they’re athletes. You walk into a room with them and you’re like, ‘I do not deserve your air.’”
The Nuanced Portrayal of Family and Artistic Passion
According to Jon Tenney, the show’s strength lies in its depiction of the complicated relationships within the Bean family.
“As an actor, they’re just dreams because like I say, it’s such a fabulous company of actors, and as the characters, it’s great because like any family, you love them and you hate them, and they drive you crazy, and you can’t get enough of them, and you have to get away from them, so all that drama, it just fuels the story in a lovely way,”
he explained.
The combination of seasoned actors and a powerful narrative offers viewers a story that balances heartfelt humor and emotional tension, emphasizing both individual flaws and collective resilience.
Viewing Details and Future Episodes
American Classic releases new episodes every Sunday on MGM+, inviting audiences into a world where family intricacies and a love for theater intersect in meaningful ways. With Kevin Kline’s leading role anchoring the series, the show promises to resonate with viewers who appreciate stories of redemption, family bonds, and the enduring power of the arts.
