Much has been written about 13 Reasons Why season 1, which premiered earlier this year on Netflix. Based on the book of the same name, it covers the reasons for the main character’s suicide – which she’s left behind on recordings for her best friend.
Why it matters: I was pretty bummed to see a season 2 of this series, because season 1, though rated “MA” was watched ad nauseum by teens (it’s about teens, after all.) The series includes upsetting, graphic rape scenes and a glorification of suicide which can be dangerous for any teens struggling with suicidal thoughts or mental illness. Though I’ve heard some parents say it’s good to watch WITH your teens to discuss these issues, I’ve heard other parents, including the father of one who took her life, so to steer clear. Whatever you decide, discussing suicide with your teens, asking them if they’ve ever had suicidal thoughts, and talking about how Christ can help them in their brokenness are things I’d always recommend.
Young Sheldon (CBS)
This Big Bang Theory spin-off imagines the early life of genius scientist Sheldon Cooper, who is the odd one out growing up in the sports-obsessed Bible Belt in Texas.
Why it matters: Much has been made of the atheist Sheldon’s Christian upbringing on Big Bang, and so no doubt Young Sheldon will surely contain lots of Jesus talk. Once again, a great opportunity for Christians to talk to their non-Christian friends about faith. Also, Young Sheldon appears to have a pretty strong family unit and structure, which is nice to see in a family comedy.
Kevin (Probably) Saves the World (ABC)
This comedy stars Jason Ritter (you know, Lauren Graham’s younger boyfriend on Parenthood!) as a down on his luck dude who starts getting visits from an angel, Yvette, who says God has tasked HIM with saving the world. The show’s site says, “Kevin Finn is not a good person. He’s not terrible, but he’s selfish, and clueless, and values material wealth and status over all else. And he’s beginning to realize that those things aren’t making him happy—in fact, he’s fairly miserable. Just when things seem to be at their worst, he finds himself tasked with an unbelievable mission… saving the world. ”
Why it matters: I’ve heard from people who watched the premiere this week that this show is excellent for starting convos with kids or non-Christian friends about faith, WHY we do “good” deeds, and God’s purposes for our lives.
Those are some of the shows that, in my opinion, Christians (especially parents) should have on their radar this fall—what are some of yours?
