One Day At A Time Theme Song Lyrics
Behind the Music: Meaning & Story
The One Day at a Time theme song, titled “This Is It,” is a vibrant reimagining of the original 1975 sitcom’s opening. For the 2017 revival, the legendary Gloria Estefan performed a new, Cuban-inspired arrangement that perfectly reflected the show’s focus on the Alvarez family, a Cuban-American household in Los Angeles. Composed by Jeff Barry and Nancy Barry, the song’s optimistic message about resilience and “muddling through” served as a bridge between the classic multi-cam format and modern social commentary.
Airing on Netflix for three seasons before moving to POP TV for its fourth, the series became a beloved gem for its ability to tackle heavy topics like PTSD, immigration, and LGBTQ+ identity with humor and sincerity. While the later episodes of the show often featured a shortened instrumental version to save time for storytelling, the full vocal track remained a fan favorite, encapsulating the spirit of the series’ lead, Penelope Alvarez, as she navigated life as a single mother and veteran.
As the final episode aired on 16 June 2020, “This Is It” stood as a testament to the show’s legacy of inclusivity. The upbeat melody and Estefan’s soulful delivery provided a sense of comfort and celebration, reminding audiences that no matter what life throws at you, you can get through it—one day at a time. The song remains a powerful choice for those looking for a reminder of the laughter and heartfelt moments that defined this modern-day family classic.