Going into its premiere on September 20, with over 63 million Facebook and 8.3 million YouTube views of its trailer--making it the most watched ever for a new series--This Is Us was no doubt one of the most talked-about and highly-anticipated new shows of this season. Now, we're two episodes in and I can tell you the show has definitely lived up to the hype. With a unique and interesting plot, relatable storylines, and compelling characters brought to life by a great cast, the series is everything you're looking for and more, especially if you're someone like me who has been looking to fill that Parenthood-sized void in their life. If I haven't sold you already, here are six more reasons you should be watching NBC's This Is Us.
And, as always, this will be spoiler-free. I would hate to ruin the magic of the first two episodes for you.
1. It has relatable characters and stories.
One of my favorite aspects of the show is that it is telling stories about the everyday life, problems, and emotions of people just like you and me. You can really relate to the characters and many of the problems they are going through, including struggles with weight and body image, having kids, raising a family, being unhappy with your job and wanting to do more with your life--the list just keeps growing and growing with every episode.
2. It features some great writing and compelling storylines.
Take it from someone who has seen her fair share of bad writing on some of her favorite shows; this show's good. In addition to the clever, yet believable, dialogue, all of the details and special little touches they add in to craft this world are remarkable. And with a plot as (at first) complex and connected as this one, that is really saying something. Not to mention, said plot and its main storylines are equally compelling and will keep you tuning in week after week.
3. It's the best of both worlds.
This show will make you laugh. It'll make you cry. You'll cheer when something goes right. You'll (want to) yell at the TV when it doesn't. It is a 40-something minute emotional roller coaster ride.
4. It's well-acted.
This isn't surprising given it's star-studded cast. All of the actors in the show give such incredibly real and emotional performances. They already seem to know their characters inside and out. And that's not even mentioning the chemistry you can see developing between the actors.
5. It's shattering stereotypes.
It's not too often that you see plus-size female lead in a drama series. No, more often than not these characters aren't given much substance or are the so-called "butt of the joke." Chrissy Metz, who plays Kate on the show, has a great opportunity to break down some stereotypes and help other women facing the same issues.
6. It features some excellent, well-written plot twists.
Already within it's first two episodes, the show has included a few major plot twists that show us that family dramas can be fresh and exiting, too. Now if only we didn't have to wait another two weeks to find out what happens after that last bombshell...
Everything about this show just draws you in. From the acting, to the writing, to the incredible, heart-tugging stories it tells, This Is Us truly is like nothing else on TV right now. So, if you wish to come along on this journey with the rest of us, tune in on Tuesday, October 11 at 9/8c on NBC. I can assure you, you won't be disappointed.
