A Realistic Look at Blended Family Life

The series follows Julia, played by chantal Janzen, and Taco, played by Lykele Muus, as they navigate their relationship amidst the chaos of combining families. The show doesn’t shy away from the difficulties,including shared bedrooms,differing household rules,and the lingering presence of ex-partners.

According to Lykele Muus, the goal was to avoid caricature and present an authentic depiction of post-divorce life.Of course there is humor in it, but life after a divorce is not always fun or cozy. It is confusing and painful, but you can show that.

No sugarcoating: The Raw Recognizability of ‘One Big Family’

Chantal Janzen emphasizes the show’s appeal lies in its raw recognizability. She shared that the series has resonated deeply with viewers,particularly children of divorced parents. We really touched something. I received many reactions from children who said to their parents: ‘That should not have been easy for you.’ And that is true. While you break up inside.

Drawing from Personal Experience

Both Chantal Janzen and Lykele Muus bring their personal experiences with blended families to the series. Janzen, who has a blended family with five children, and Muus, who co-parents his daughter with his ex-partner, use their insights to inform the show’s storylines.

janzen also discusses the series with her children, noting, They too said that it would be really good for divorced parents to see this together with their children – that there is more understanding, rather of shouting in the house. Fortunately, we have built up a harmonious situation, but that did not happen automatically. That takes time,commitment and honesty.

Muus added that the show sparked important conversations with his daughter: My daughter watched me and asked questions. I thought that was beautiful. Because in the end it is not easy for anyone. But if you talk to each other more, you will come a long way.

Beyond the Pink Cloud: Realistic Portrayals of Children

The series portrays children in blended families realistically, acknowledging their potential resistance and struggles. Brutal and rebellious, yes, says Janzen.But we deliberately wrote it that way. children in such a situation are not necessarily sweet and polite. They have not had a choice,everything changes,and that evokes resistance. We did not want good children to get out of the car that happily shout: ‘Yes, a step sister!’ That would be totally amazing.

Navigating Relationships with Exes

the series also addresses the complex dynamics of co-parenting with ex-partners. Muus highlights the challenge of maintaining a parental team despite the end of the romantic relationship. You no longer have a relationship, but you are still parents together. Many people have difficulty with that line – that they can no longer collaborate due to all the anger and reproaches.

Season 2: What to Expect

Season 2 of ‘One Big Family,’ available on Videoland from May 24, shifts its focus from bringing families together to maintaining those relationships. According to Janzen and Muus, the new season features bolder storylines, including a tough decision by Julia that disrupts everything. The goal is to show that life is not perfect, even after a happy ending.

A Helping Hand for Parents

Ultimately, ‘One Big Family’ aims to provide support and validation for parents navigating the challenges of blended families. Muus told ANP,Many people see a family falling apart as a personal failure. But sometimes you have to start again. For yourself, and for your children. This series is a helping hand for them – to show that that is okay.

Season 2 of One Big Family is available on Videoland starting May 24.

Sources: Veronica Superguide, ANP