Recently, Ryan Murphy made a bombshell revelation: “Glee” is returning! For longtime fans of the show, the idea of seeing the “New Directions” back in action is enough to send us into a nostalgia-fueled frenzy. However, before we start dusting off the old merch and preparing for a full-blown “Glee” renaissance, there’s an important question we need to ask ourselves: Do we really want “Glee” back, or are some things just better left in the past?
“Glee” is a staple when it comes to late 2000s television. Some might even say it’s the staple. An ultimate mix of high school drama, we got everything from messy relationships and imperfect main characters to catchy covers, and even unforgettable guest stars. There really is no show like it. That’s exactly what makes the idea of a “Gleeboot” so complicated. As much as we’d love to revisit McKinley High, “Glee” captured a very specific moment in TV history. Its unique brand of camp is deeply tied to the iconic 2000s era; the characters and the show’s sheer willingness to be completely out of bounds would be a recipe for disaster in today’s day and age. “Glee” just might be one of those things better left alone.
Murphy’s announcement has sparked some pretty mixed reactions from the former cast, and honestly I’m here for it. While many have shared their excitement at potentially reliving such a pivotal moment from their early careers, some key cast members have expressed hearing nothing before the public announcement. It’s no secret that Ryan Murphy and Chris Colfer have had their fair share of public drama over the years, but I have to admit, I’m shocked that such a quintessential character doesn’t appear to be a part of the conversation. I mean, how are we even talking about bringing “Glee” back without Kurt Hummel? With its dated humor and behind the scenes drama aside, there’s one elephant in the room we just can’t ignore: Glee simply would not be the same without Naya Rivera. Santana Lopez is an essential part of the “New Directions’” legacy and it would be a slap in the face not only to the character, but the unforgettable legacy Naya left behind.
At the end of the day, the idea of a “Glee” reboot is bittersweet at best. As much as I would love to relive the feeling of watching this show for the first time, nostalgia can only take us so far. Bringing back a show as culturally significant as “Glee” comes with insanely big shoes to fill. Until Ryan Murphy can provide a good reason for this reboot (beyond an obvious cash grab), I’ll be keeping my rewatches firmly in 2009.