Snakes, Chimps and Diverse Adoptees

ABC’s new “Second Noah” is so determined to be genial that its first two episodes turn disharmony into bliss just in time for the closing credits. If only real life were as tidy.

The slow and oozy ABC drama introduces another of TV’s eclectic families, the ethnic rainbow in this instance being the Becketts of Tampa, Fla., presided over by Noah (Daniel Hugh Kelly), a coach-turned-author (2 million sales for his first novel), and Jesse (Betsy Brantley), chief veterinarian at a wild animal park that adjoins their property.

Around the house are animals galore, from a boa to a chimp (who somehow coexist), and adopted kids galore: twins Danny and Ranny, 10-year-olds Bethany and Hannah, and teenage Ricky and his own son. Soon to arrive are Roxanna and Luis, in a premiere packing enough warmth to melt an ice floe.

The family’s problems are heavy, but not so heavy that they can’t be swiftly resolved. Rebellious Ricky (James Marsden) is about to abandon his son and run off with his kinky girlfriend? Not to worry. He’ll see the light. African American Bethany (RuDee Lipscomb) encounters racism at school? Easy does it. Her wise white mom will make the pain disappear.

Well, not all of it, apparently, because Lipscomb is succeeded by another actress in the second episode, as are the cast members who play Roxanna and Luis. Different cast, same line. Luis has a bit of a lying problem? Not to worry. Dad will somehow work it out.

The same dad who, after surmounting writer’s block, is seen typing furiously at his word processor, fizzed with creativity, the next bestseller on his fingertips, as his kids crawl all over him. Arrrrgh!

* “Second Noah” premieres at 8 tonight on ABC (Channels 7, 3).