Rita Moreno is the key to One Day at a Time’s success

Vulture

“She is a one-woman, humor-driven diversion machine, so charming and self-assured that when you finally recognize an episode’s immense and fraught message, you’re already won to her side,” says Kathryn VanArendonk. “Moreno’s performance allows the show to avert the precious vibes of a Very Special Episode, and the story sails along on the giddy currents of Lydia’s personality rather than its own hot air. One Day at a Time is a fantastic show, and all of its actors are crucial to what makes it tick. But Moreno’s performance as Lydia is what lets the show feel so vital and heartbreaking on the most contentious cultural touch points, while still guaranteeing the audience will hang on for the ride.”