We all are disgusted by who we were in 2009, but one universal truth of human existence is that "Glee" irrevocably and irreversibly changed our lives, for the better or for the worst.
"Glee," which first aired in 2009, first met explosive fame, yet quickly descended into becoming a parody of itself, eventually dying a quiet death in 2015 with little fanfare. Regardless of its sorry end, "Glee" was a cultural phenomenon, which, dare I say, was the first step to obliterating homophobia.
Kurt Hummel, a cruelly stereotypical caricature of a gay teenager, was the show's most iconic character, who blossomed into a fully-fledged spokesperson for gay rights. Later, a more diverse cast of other LGBT teenagers was introduced — including the fiery and aggressive Latina, the promiscuous and unintelligent bisexual woman, and the transgender Black woman who was frequently misgendered and relegated into the role of sassy black friend. Undoubtedly, "Glee" was problematic from its very beginning.
We fostered a love-hate relationship with the show, which applauded a relationship between a teacher and her teenage child student but also celebrated diversity at its finest. We grew to love a man-child with no adult friends who resorted to having a high schooler be his best man at his wedding, which he pressured his wife into. (Before this, he sang a song to his then-girlfriend about how her mental illness was fixable!)
None of this is relevant. "Glee" is still the best show ever aired on television up to this date. But will "Rise," a show that has been touted as the "new Glee" supersede it?
I think not. "Glee," with all of its flaws, was still the first show to promote diversity in all senses fiercely and proudly. It sensitively showed the nuances of teenage emotion. "Rise" promises to do the same. But will it?
Possibly. Will it do so better? Absolutely not. There is no way that "Rise", a carbon copy of our favorite show to hate-watch, could excel in this case. Its similar concept is hauntingly familiar — a disillusioned teacher brings together a group of sorry misfits through the love of music.
Been there, done that. Before "Glee," singing groups were unpopular. "Rise" is piggybacking off of "Glee's" hard work, and can only hope to be an adequate reproduction.
"Glee" might have more holes than a slice of Swiss cheese, but it is more gouda than "Rise" will ever be. "Glee" was a pioneer in and of itself, especially with representing the unheard voices on commercial television. You are free to watch "Rise", and possibly enjoy it — just remember that "Glee" did it first.
