You might know Billy Gardell from CBS’ hit series Mike & Molly or you may recognize him from the several other shows that he’s guest-starred in, including Young Sheldon and Angie Tribeca. But recently, Gardell has been bringing laughter to audiences on Bob Hearts Abishola, a sitcom that he’s thoroughly enjoyed.

The Bob Hearts Abishola star didn’t think that he’d get another opportunity to be on a successful show after Mike & Molly. Speaking to CBS Local he said, “You know man, I’m blown away by what’s happened this year. It’s such a sweet, kind show and it’s received so wonderfully. We had a freshman hit and to have a freshman hit on a sitcom is crazy.

When you’re on a hit sitcom, you think the second one won’t go this well, but this show has a great ensemble cast. I think Chick Lorre found a beautiful temperature between a working-class family and a family of hardworking immigrants that want to make a better life for their family.”

Gardell’s character Bob plays a huge part in the show and it took Gardell an understanding of his character to bring Bob to life. “You put on the character for the pilot and then you start adding nuances, you start understanding,” he told CBS Local. However, the strong cast also plays a pivotal role in the manner. This is especially true of his Gardell’s co-star Folake Olowofoyeku. “She has this powerful stoicism and yet she can light up a room when she smiles,” he said.

The well-known producer behind the successful sitcom is Chuck Lorre, who’s also directed hit sitcoms like The Big Bang Theory and Two and a Half Men. According to Gardell, Lorre has this ability to find characters which audiences will believe. Gardell said, “He always says character, character, character because if I don’t care about them, I’m not watching. I don’t care how good the jokes are. We really have this nice chemistry and I can’t believe I landed in it twice. I cannot believe that.”

Catch Bob Hearts Abishola on Thursdays at 19:00 on 1 Magic, DStv Channel 103.