Too often, I've watched TV shows with female leads whos story lines consisted of "which boy will she pick?" "first to be killed off" other misogynist tropes similar to that. Even in 2018, it's incredibly hard to find a decent show with a good plotline and female characters whos storylines don't revolve around whether she gets the guy or manages to stay alive until the end of the series.
I thought I'd never find one until I started watching Freeforms 'The Bold Type'. So, here's my 8 reasons this show should be the next one you watch!
1. The show isn't afraid to tackle important issues
It tackled topics such as sexual orientation, equality, breast cancer, sexual assault, feminism, women in politics, immigration, racism and SO MUCH MORE in the first season alone. They portrayed these stories with delicacy, none of which fell into old tropes and stereotypes. I can only imagine how many important issues will be covered in the second season.
2. It's funny with a good amount of drama
Every episode leaves you wanting more while a simultaneously leaving you dying from laughter. They've somehow found the perfect balance between the two. Funny and dramatic, what more could you want?
3. The friendships between the characters
The characters are relatable, funny and intricate. From episode one, I was so invested in these characters lives. I've yet to come across characters as well written as Jane, Kat and Sutton (aka The Trio) The relationship between the three is nothing but real. They do an incredible job of depicting a real friendship and what a great friendship should look like (which you can read about in point 6). The characters are relevant, they're fashionable and they're accurate representation of women today.
4. The representation
Adena El Amin, the photographer is one of the few, if not the only, Muslim characters on television today. Not only is she excellent representation for Muslim viewers but also LGBT viewers. Adena is an out and proud lesbian! And is a great portrayal of how people can be LGBT+ and still stay close with their religion. Unlike most shows on TV, The Bold Type has many people of colour and LGBT+ characters and actually treats them equally and with respect, not writing them into harmful tropes.
5. The relationships
There are several different relationships on the show, whether they're platonic or romantic. My personal favorite platonic relationship is between Jacqueline and the trio. Jacqueline is the editor in chief of Scarlet Magazine where all the girls work, she has a mother-like bond with them looking over them as a mentor as the find their way in the world. My favourite romantic relationship is between Kat and Adena (#kadena) In episode one, Kat and Adena meet for the first time and formed an instant friendship. After struggle, a violinist and a certain person named Coco they eventually get together!! Their relationship takes a turn as Adena is deported but I won't spoil what happens so I guess you'll have to watch to see what happens next...
6. It demonstrates what a great friendship should be
The friendships on The Bold Type are nothing but realistic. They depict some real, loving friendships and show you what a trusting, healthy friendship is e.g. When Kat tells the girls that she's falling for Adena, neither are phased but instead support her along her journey. Not only that, but The Bold Type soars above the "boys and girls can't be friends without falling for one another" trope and depict some amazing friendships between the men and women on the show!
7. The women in the show
The women are the heroines of the show. They're strong as f*ck and they stand up for what they believe in. They stand up for themselves in every aspect of life whether it's at work or walking down the street. They build each other up instead of tearing each other down and each have their own personalities, style and lifestyle.
8. Season 2 is premiering June 12th
Season two of The Bold Type is set to premiere, June 12th 9/8c on Freeform! This show is feminist, it's feel good and it's a show every person needs in their life. Season 1 is available to stream for free on Hulu and the Freeform app.
-Emer Neville, lead writer
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