I"ve seen the first two episodes, and am very impressed. To address some issues...
First, I grew up in the deep south and the series felt very much like it was happening there. That includes both the emphasis on manners, the hardship of often-stagnant economy, the attitudes people throw up, etc.
Second, this is the way people talk. How you could have a story set where and when this story is set, among these characters and not have profanity is something I don't see how it could work. Keep in mind, not all the characters do curse very much, if at all. But some do, and that accurately reflects life.
Likewise, the story is about--among other things--sex. That is a perfectly valid thing for stories to be about.
Lastly, Bill does have some parallels I can see with Barnabas. Both have returned to their homes long after their families are dead, restoring an old house, becoming interesting in a local girl whom he is sorely tempted to bite. He visits the neighbors, and stirs up strong feelings including friendship with the family matriarch. More, Bill does have a slightly melancholy air about him, a certain gentlemanly grace, and a stillness that sets him apart.
Plus, his name starts with a "B."
There are a lot of differences, though. Bill is far more diplomatic than Barnabas, and seems more comfortable with his vampire status. He isn't nearly as aristocratic, nor seemingly as vain. Not a ring or over-elaborate cane in sight! If anything his wardrobe is very ordinary. Plus he doesn't seem as obsessed with the past, the way Barnabas was forever dwelling on what had been (often at the expense of what was or could be).
