
Thelma "Mama" Harper is the quick-tempered, blue-haired matriarch of the Harper family who lives with son Vint and his wife, Naomi, who were forced to move into Mama's basement after losing money in a business deal gone awry. After Vint's kids from a previous marriage leave the house, Mama's delinquent grandson Bubba is ordered to live with his grandmother after being released from juvenile hall and placed on probation. Iola Boylen, Thelma's friend and neighbor, is a frequent visitor to the Harper household, which is often the site of bickering between abrasive Mama and her loved ones. Vicki Lawrence stars as Mama, a character she originated in sketches on "The Carol Burnett Show."

While Vint is at his stag party, the women have a get-together that turns disastrous.

Naomi and Vint wind up on Mama's doorstep after they're swindled out of their housing investment.

Vint is certain he was adopted when he discovers some disturbing information on his birth certificate.

Mama participates in a "Grandma USA" pageant.