Coined America's guilty pleasure show, this spinoff of the British comedy is about to start up its eighth season this week. With a loyal following, this dramedy is one that has a unique flavor and is a definite must watch. If you're not watching "Shameless" here are some reasons to begin your Netflix binge before the big season eight premiere.
1. The Family Dynamic
Regardless of what happens, at the end of the day, the Gallaghers stick together. The show always ends up leaving you with a strong sense of family and the importance they have in your life. I can't seem to turn off the show without wanting to call my little brother.
2. The LGBTQ Representation
From the beginning this show has tackled topics like coming, out, struggling with sexuality, being transgender, open relationships. There's a lot of great representation on the show and they come at these topics with the blunt honesty and integrity a lot of popular media is lacking.
3. Love/Hate Relationship With Frank
Love him or hate him, Papa Gallagher seems to have a revolving door relationship with all of his children. Whether he's trying to make an effort and you find your soft spot for him, or you're cheering on the crew for dragging him out to the cold, Frank Gallagher is the character you love to hate and hate to love.
4. All-Star Supporting Cast
"Shameless" will have you falling in love with characters outside of the Gallagher home just as much as those pesky Gallaghers themselves. You'll be wanting to protect Mickey or hug Svetlana. And if you don't root for Kev and V every step of the way do you even believe in love?
5. The Issues
Over the course of seven seasons, they have tackled some pretty serious issues. From drug abuse and mental illness to teen pregnancy. "Shameless" does so in a way that not only brings in some well-deserved humor but with the reality and tact that brings home the beauty of this diamond in the rough show.
6. The Humor
"Shameless" is the show that will have you crying one minute, and then laughing so hard you're still crying the next minute. With the quick wit and dark dry humor, "Shameless" doesn't hold back when it comes to throwing punches at America, society and all of its beloved characters.
7. Everything Lip Gallagher
With his dreamy big blue eyes, sarcastic comebacks and genius intelligence it's hard not to be madly in love with Lip Gallagher from day one. While it's been said so many times it must be said again if you watch Shameless for nothing else, then Lip's heartwarming story and Southside charm will surely win you over in a heartbeat.
While there are probably a lot better educational or productive things you could be doing with your time there's nothing that will leave you feeling as angry and proud all at the same time as a good Shameless Binge, so get on over and rewatch or finish season seven on Netflix so you can enjoy all your Gallagher goodness come November 5th.
