Leanne Morgan's hit Netflix series, "Leanne," returns for a second season, delving into themes of navigating life changes, caring for aging parents, and finding renewed purpose. Morgan, the show's star and co-creator, recently spoke about the series' relevance and its personal connection to her own life.
"The writing team wanted to explore us taking care of our elderly parents right away, and I’m dealing with that in real life," Morgan explained in an interview. "My momma and daddy are 83 and 86, and I begged them to move in with me, but my little daddy won’t leave their house." She found the storyline highly relevant to many Americans experiencing the challenges of supporting both growing children and aging parents.
The series also tackles the emotional journey of its titular character, who re-enters the dating world after her on-screen husband of three decades leaves her. While Morgan's personal life is far removed from this scenario, she jokes about how her real-life husband of 33 years, Chuck, would react if such a situation arose. "Chuck doesn’t care, honey, if I’m bringing in money," she stated, humorously downplaying any potential jealousy. "I think he knows she’s in menopause and she’s tired and her feet hurt and she is not going to get out and honky tonk. I think that’s what Chuck Morgan thinks. Cause he’s right, you know. I just talk a big game about dating."
Season 2 features notable guest stars, including country music superstar Lainey Wilson, who Morgan praised for her natural comedic talent. "She’s so funny. I thought the whole time that she’s so natural," Morgan said of Wilson, who previously appeared with Morgan and their families on "Family Feud." Morgan also noted Wilson's ambition, saying, "She said to me, ‘I should have been a stand-up, Leanne.’" The two women connected over their shared work ethic and authenticity.
Morgan also touched on storylines that resonate with her audience, such as an episode where characters contemplate plastic surgery. "Oh honey, every day I’m going back and forth thinking, ‘Should I get my neck done?’" she admitted. "But I love a good laser." She believes women of her generation are embracing aging with a renewed sense of vitality and purpose, often feeling "like the new 40."
The series, which was a significant success in its first season, topping Netflix charts and accumulating over 1 billion minutes of viewing in its initial six weeks, aims to reflect real-life experiences that provide comfort and connection for viewers across different age groups. Morgan emphasized the importance of showing relatable content, stating, "I just think there’s something about it that’s comforting and just something that everybody can enjoy together."