Adult Swim’s new animated series President Curtis may not break new ground, but it successfully keeps the Rick and Morty franchise moving forward with its mix of science fiction, action and humour.

The series premieres on July 26 and serves as the first major spinoff from the long-running animated hit. Created by Dan Harmon and James Siciliano, President Curtis focuses on President Andre Curtis, a popular recurring character voiced by Keith David.

A Familiar Start

The show quickly acknowledges its connection to Rick and Morty. In one early scene, Morty comments on the rise of spinoffs, saying, “They spin off so fast.” Rick responds with, “I give it 10 episodes.”

The exchange acts as a playful handover from the original series to its newest expansion.

Supernatural Threats Replace Multiverse Chaos

Although President Curtis shares the same style and humour as Rick and Morty, it shifts its attention away from multiverse adventures.

Instead, Curtis battles vampires, witches, werewolves and other supernatural threats while leading the country.

The tone is established from the opening scene. During a press conference, Curtis declares, “I killed Paul Bunyan today,” before adding, “Timber, bitch!”

Curtis works alongside his chief of staff, Banks, a cyborg voiced by Stephanie Beatriz, and Secret Service agent O’Doyle, a half-leprechaun played by Jim Rash.

Together, they face unusual missions. These include investigating a paranormal prison and searching for Napoleon’s mummified penis before France can somehow undo the Louisiana Purchase.

Focus on Comedy

The show leans heavily into absurd comedy. At one point, a character says, “We don’t tattle. We’re grown-ups; we fight ninjas!”

Unlike Rick and Morty, the series spends less time on emotional storylines. Curtis’ relationship with his ex-wife remains a background detail rather than a major plot point.

Instead, the show focuses on guest stars, pop culture references and fast-moving adventures.

Playing It Safe

Rather than reinventing the franchise, President Curtis sticks closely to the formula that made Rick and Morty successful.

The comparison is even acknowledged within the show. While Rick Sanchez is known as an eccentric grandfather figure, Curtis proudly describes himself as “America’s cool dad.”

That familiar approach may not offer major surprises. However, it provides fans with more of the humour and science-fiction chaos they already enjoy. As a result, President Curtis succeeds as a dependable addition to the growing Rick and Morty universe.