Bresha Webb, Diallo Riddle, Marlon Wayans, Notlim Taylor, Essence Atkins and Amir O'Neil star in "Marlon"

Divorce is never easy, even when things are relatively amicable and straightforward, and no matter where the relationship falls on the separation spectrum, when children are involved, the complications only amplify. A more recent trend looks to lessen the burden on spouses with children who, despite their own desire to end their relationship, still possess a strong desire to remain a constant presence in their children’s lives. This form of parenting is known as co-parenting, and it’s the driving force behind Marlon Wayans' semi-autobiographical “Marlon,” season 2 of which premieres Thursday, June 14, on NBC.

The series focuses on the dynamics between a loving but immature father of two and his responsible, driven ex-wife as they adjust to life after divorce while trying to be good parents and role models to their two children. Dad Marlon Wayne (Marlon Wayans, "G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra," 2009) may be even more immature than either his daughter Marley (Notlim Taylor, "Black-ish") or son Zach (Amir O’Neil, "Mann and Wife"), refusing to put aside antics and brashness for a more responsible way of life.

This doesn’t jive well with his ex-wife, Ashley (Essence Atkins, "Are We There Yet?"), who wants to ensure that her children have a promising future and hopes to inspire them through her own demonstrated stability and maturity. Despite Marlon’s lack of maturity, Ashley truly believes that he needs to be a part of their lives, and both mother and father compromise as they need to be there for their children.

Other prominent members of the cast include Bresha Webb ("Truth Be Told") as Yvette, Ashley’s closest friend who isn’t the biggest fan of Marlon, and Stevie (Diallo Riddle, "Silicon Valley"), Marlon’s roommate and stubbornly loyal best friend despite Marlon’s continual denial.

The first season of "Marlon" established the tone of the sitcom, which, while playing with a familiar premise, sets itself apart by showcasing a family that proves co-parenting works. Marlon is involved in much of the day-to-day household tasks and routines. He’s often present for meals, parent-teacher meetings, even keeping an overly watchful eye over daughter Marley and her potential love interests. Marlon loves to dish out advice to his two kids, though unfortunately for them, it’s often not the most beneficial or acceptable way to deal with their problems. Additionally, his idea of parenting tends to include indulging his children’s desires, often spoiling them or challenging them in ways more reminiscent of playground antics than parenting. In fact, Ashley more often than not is a parent to Marlon as well, trying to help him adjust to his growing children, who need him to be more responsible than he'd often like to be.

Essence Atkins in "Marlon"

"Marlon" was a huge hit last year, with ratings that earned it the top spot for a new scripted summer series amongst the four major U.S. networks. The reasons for the show’s success may be plentiful, though two main facets seem likely to dominate. First is the fact that the series is quite personal for Wayans, an important trademark of few sitcoms, notably the recently reprised ABC series "Roseanne." According to a CNN interview, Wayans claims that "Marlon" is "87 per cent based on his actual life." He even warned his real-life children that they were the inspirations behind his TV children for the series, cautioning them not to "do nothing stupid or [they would] wind up on TV." The fact that Wayans is willing to bring such an intimate part of his life onto the small screen has surely lent to the series’ success, along with its celebration of co-parenting, an approach to life after divorce that many are now attempting to put into practice.

The series also benefits from Wayans' comedic legacy, having held an extensive career on both the big and small screen alongside his fellow Wayans brothers. From his initial bit parts in "I'm Gonna Git You Sucka" (1988) and "Mo' Money" (1992), to a more notable role in sketch comedy series "In Living Colour" and the overwhelming success of horror-parody "Scary Movie" (2000) and its subsequent franchise, it’s not surprising that a series by Wayans would garner a lofty fan following.

Long gone are summers without quality television shows, and the presence of streaming services has certainly made networks step up their game. With its touching moments, zany antics and true-to-life scenarios, "Marlon" is definitely worthy of a place in your summer viewing rotation. Yes, divorce can be amicable. Yes, two parents can work together and both be actively present for their children. Weekend visits and alternate weeks no longer have to be the norm. Enjoy a hilarious yet touching look into the lives of a co-parenting family when season 2 of "Marlon" premieres Thursday, June 14, on NBC.