The show stars Richards as socially awkward but talented private detective Vic Nardozza, who gets the job done despite his unusual methods.

When test audiences' expectations for Richards were not met, NBC decided that the character would share characteristics with his previous role.

Variety reviewer Phil Gallo described the premiere episode as "thoroughly unfunny" and that "the humor is lacking at every turn in this series, and the wit is practically nonexistent.

"[13] People reviewer Tom Gliatto compared the difficulty in Seinfeld stars moving onto solo projects to "stepping onto a toboggan loaded with tubes of nitroglycerine and then hurtling down a sheet of rock.

"[14] Entertainment Weekly reviewer Ken Tucker wrote, "The Michael Richards Show isn't merely unamusing; it's shockingly incompetent.