BET+ continues to strengthen its reputation for original content with Average Joe, a series that blends dark humor with a gritty crime drama. Premiering in 2023, the show, created by Robb Cullen, offers a fresh take on the themes of family loyalty, survival, and the lengths people will go to when their lives take unexpected, dangerous turns.

Plot Overview

Average Joe follows the life of Joe Washington, an everyday plumber from Pittsburgh, whose seemingly mundane existence is thrown into chaos when he discovers that his recently deceased father led a double life as a criminal. What Joe inherits isn’t just a family legacy—it’s a huge stash of money, drugs, and enemies. As the series unfolds, Joe and his friends find themselves entangled in a complex web of deception, danger, and criminal dealings.

The show’s tone, reminiscent of classic crime dramas, adds a layer of intensity, while maintaining a relatable, grounded approach. It keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with its unpredictable twists and ever-escalating stakes.

Cast and Characters

The cast of Average Joe is a strong mix of seasoned actors and fresh talent. The lead, Joe Washington, is portrayed by Deon Cole, best known for his comedic chops in Black-ish and Grown-ish. In Average Joe, Cole steps into a darker, more serious role, showing his versatility as an actor. His portrayal of Joe is nuanced—an ordinary man caught in extraordinary circumstances, who must navigate the criminal underworld while trying to protect his family.

Supporting characters bring additional layers to the story, with Tammy Townsend playing Angela Washington, Joe’s wife, who is drawn into the chaos. Their friends and accomplices add tension and comic relief, highlighting the show’s unique ability to balance gritty drama with lighter, more humorous moments.

Themes and Tone

Average Joe explores a wide range of themes, from the morality of crime to the responsibilities of family. At its core, the series is about survival in the face of insurmountable odds. Joe’s determination to protect his family leads him down a dark path, forcing him to confront ethical dilemmas and the consequences of his father’s actions.

The series also weaves in commentary on socio-economic issues, with its portrayal of working-class struggles. It shows how quickly an average life can spiral into chaos when faced with the pressures of money, power, and crime.

BET+ and the Crime Drama Landscape

BET+ has made significant strides in creating diverse, original content, and Average Joe stands out as one of its more ambitious projects. The show taps into the popular crime drama genre while offering a fresh perspective through the lens of African American family dynamics and working-class struggles. Its unique blend of suspense and humor sets it apart from other crime series currently on air.

The platform has positioned itself as a hub for content that speaks to Black audiences, and with Average Joe, BET+ continues to expand its narrative scope, offering more complex and layered storytelling.

Why You Should Watch

If you’re a fan of crime dramas with an edge, Average Joe is a must-watch. The series brings intense action, relatable characters, and an intriguing plot that will keep you guessing. Deon Cole’s standout performance as Joe Washington is reason enough to tune in, but the show’s ability to mix high-stakes drama with moments of levity makes it a standout in the streaming landscape.

With Average Joe, BET+ proves that it’s not just a platform for comedy and family dramas but a serious contender in the crime genre. As Joe Washington's story unfolds, viewers are treated to a gripping narrative about how far an “average” man will go to protect what matters most.