It has just been revealed that the popular Netflix series, “13 Reasons Why” has been picked up for a second season. For most of us who binged the series, this news is exciting because the series opened up a dialog about a very sensitive topic and we feel the conversation was just starting. Yet, others have criticized the show and think that a second season is not what we need. Now, maybe I’m partial because I watched and loved the series, as did many others, but the issues that people have with this show don’t really seem to get to the heart of why I think it makes so much sense.
For many people, “13 Reasons Why” was just a book assigned to them in high school, but when this series came out, it completely blew up. Viewers were done watching all thirteen episodes within days of its release. In multiple group chats all I saw was “Have you guys watched “13 Reasons Why” yet.” The point is, everyone knew about it, so you could say suicide had become a hot topic. Some people believe that this show “glamorizes” suicide. While I understand the confusion, I believe there is a difference between talking about something and glamorizing it. Yes, the show sparked conversations, but these discussions needed to be had. Let’s put it like this, my friends and I had never talked about depression or suicide or anything along those lines before, but watching this show made us open our eyes. We realized, and hopefully other people did too, that there are two sides to every story. Even when things are hard, there are always people that care about you, even though you may not see it that way at the time. Hannah Baker didn’t see it and that led her to suicide. People need to learn from her mistakes. When times take a turn for the worst, look at every aspect in your life, the people who love you, the ones who need you. That’s what I took from this series, not that suicide is the answer but actually the exact opposite.
“13 Reasons Why” is a whole new genre of television. The show makes you uncomfortable, it makes you think, it zones in on important moments that you might not want to see, but that is why it is one of a kind. I’ve never seen anything as intense, heartbreaking, and jaw dropping as this series and that is why I cannot wait for another season of highs and lows from all the different characters we’ve been introduced to. I know there are many others who feel the same way. To the people who criticize the show, I say, wouldn’t you rather talk about the tough subjects out loud? Hear different people’s opinions and learn more about things that you don’t really understand? If you don’t like it, don’t watch it, but what I believe the cast and producers of this show were trying to do was convey a strong message! Everyone should know that at their worst moment, there are always people who love you…don’t leave them behind.
