Netflix's new docuseries Average Joe has turned quite a few heads with its recent release leading viewers to ponder over its reality. The answer is that it's vaguely based on true events of the scandalous life of Robb Cullen's father. Cullen's father is renamed as Joe Washington (played by Deon Cole) on the show which was released on 15th August.
Average Joe is a dark comedy and is based on Washington's alleged shady involvement with the Russian mafia. It also discusses his money extortion habits and life before his death. Lastly, it explains the ordeal that led to Cullen paying for his father's mistakes.
Circling back to it being a real story, per BET's website Cullen confirmed that the show is "loosely based on his own life." But, has refrained from affirming viewers about which parts of the story are true and which are fictitious. Moreover, per BET's website claims,
"He's (Robb Cullen) been tight-lipped about the specific details. This has led to speculation about what inspired the show..."
Keep reading to find out insightful details about the riveting dark comedy that is Average Joe and how true it is.
What is Netflix's Average Joe's plot?
According to the official synopsis by Netflix, Average Joe is based on the life of Joe Washington - a plumber, and his jaw-dropping discovery about his father's debt from the Russian mafia. However, Washington's dad didn't steal a small amount, he stole $10 Million. Additionally, he also stole a Lamborghini from them.
During all this, Washington remains in the dark about his father's wrongdoing even after his death. Until the Russians came knocking, demanding what they're owed back. Since Washington's father was long gone, as his son it was on him to settle old payments or watch his loved ones be taken from him.
The Cast of Netflix's Average Joe
The twisted dark comedy stars an array of seasoned actors. They are:
- Dean Cole as Joe Washington
- Ashley Olivia Fisher as Jennifer Washington
- Tammy Townsend as Angela Washington
- Cynthia Kaye McWilliams as Cathy Montgomery
- Malcolm Barret as Leon Montgomery
- Ashani Roberts as Sargent Pam Talford
- Pasha D Lychnikoff as Nicolai Dzhugashvii
- Chris Petrovski as Dimitri Dzhugashvili
- Darin Toonder as Stan Harris
- Patti Tippo as Winny Harris
Likewise, Average Joe has a plethora of castmates who make the show for what it is - a disturbing treat to watch for viewers.
Who was Robb Cullen's dad in Netflix's Average Joe?
Shortly after Netflix announced the show's release earlier this year, Cullen spoke to Variety on June 15th about the show. He emphasizes the truth about the story and reflects on his father's criminal activity. Cullen breaks down his father's facade of a respected recorded producer. He strongly stated,
"My dad was a conman. He was a record producer, but he was a conman...as most record producers are..."
Furthermore, he continued to reiterate the pride and elation parents would feel when told their child was gifted. In light of this, he adds that although he did sign talented groups of children, it was the parents who ended up deceived. Cullen said,
"They would hand over the money without thinking about it and they would never f***ing see him again!"
Cullen revealed that his family would often move houses but didn't specify the locations. However, he has a key memory of the time after moving to the Big Apple. Cullen claimed it was where his father met a Russian man.
Shortly after this meeting took place, his father passed away. Cullen mentioned that not long after, the same alleged Russian requested a meeting at a local diner. That's where Cullen learned about his father's debts and the gravity of the situation. Recalling the Russian's chilling words, Cullen said,
"Just tell me where the f***ing money is, Rob!"
Where can you watch Average Joe?
Originally, the show premiered on BET+ in 2023. However, it is now available to stream on Netflix. Average Joe currently has one season and has 10 adrenaline-fueled episodes. Since the show's recent release on Netflix, its story and characters have caused it to propel in popularity.
Will there be a Season 2 of Netflix's Average Joe?
After a resounding success with season 1, Average Joe will return for season 2. However, there is no official release date set. However, per Deadline, filming for the new season will take place between September and December. Furthermore, the cast and crew will reportedly shoot the upcoming season in South Africa.
Average Joe has already made a strong impression on viewers who are craving for a new season.
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