Have you ever binge-watched a show tirelessly, powering through seven seasons in a little over a week, not thinking or talking about anything else?
Two weeks ago, I started watching “Shameless” a Netflix original about an alcoholic father, Frank Gallagher, and his six children living in South Side, Chicago. It pretty much took over my life. Contemplating why my appeal to the show turned into an all-out obsession, I condensed all of the reasons I’m so passionate about it into four simple points.
1. There are strong female protagonists.
Unfortunately, there aren’t many powerful female characters in both TV and film. “Shameless” changes this. In my opinion, the strongest female character in the show is Fiona, the oldest sibling. She is a complex and determined individual who takes on the caretaker role in her family. She has flaws and has many moments of weakness, but her imperfections make her even more likeable.
2. Unlike many shows, “Shameless” is relatable.
Personally, I found the show to be accurate —painfully accurate— regarding certain situations I have been in and people I have encountered in my life. While a lot of people can’t relate specifically to having an alcoholic parent, dealing with physical and emotional abandonment, experiencing severe mental illness, etc., there are always important topics discussed and portrayed in-depth on “Shameless,” which a lot of shows tend to brush over or not address at all. It depicts how life is constantly changing and how resilient people can be.
The only unrealistic aspect of “Shameless” is the fact that the family the show focuses on, as well as most people on the show, are white and living in South Side. In reality, over 93% of South Side is African American. Despite this demographic flaw, I believe everyone is able to relate to the show and the obstacles the characters face.
3. Hot boys.
Yes, I know this is shallow. But honestly, you will fall in love with the Gallagher boys. Phillip (nicknamed “Lip”) and his younger brothers, Ian and Carl, all have elaborate storylines that are completely different. And they’re all super cute.
4. Although there are many heart-wrenching moments, “Shameless” is surprisingly uplifting.
The family dynamic is magnetized in this show, depicting all the good (and bad) moments within a household. The love between the Gallagher siblings is constantly visible. They have an unbreakable bond that their negligent parents cannot destroy.
Overall, “Shameless” will have you crying tears of joy and tears of sadness. It is heart-warming yet serious, and accurately portrays the inner and outer conflicts people endure in their daily lives, focusing specifically on the structure of a family.
Clearly, I’m very passionate about this show, and highly recommend that you watch it. Trust me: you’ll be addicted.