Glee. It started out as a fun, lively, wholesome comedy, full of singing and dancing. Now it has turned into an unrealistic, risqué show.
These dynamic characters started out as somewhat normal, yet intriguing, high school students with the common interest of musical theater. Recently, however, these characters have spun out of control and have been acting as if they were adults.
Glee is advertising itself as a trashy soap opera. For example, many of the Glee fans were shocked by Finn’s sudden proposal to Rachel. Not only was it improbable, but it suggested that marriage in high school is normal and can be a fairy tale. It is not.
If people get married or plan to get married in high school, chances are they will stay home for each other and not go to college. Without a college education their chances of a high-paying job are slim, and they will eventually find themselves working menial jobs to support their household. Although it may seem like a nice choice, the reality is that neither of these people will be living to their full potential. It is definitely important to be independent for at least some time in life, and further one’s education. Not only do we have high school marriages in Glee, but we also have some questionable behavior.
Although Glee does offer some controversial topics to be discussed and leaves you to question some moral values, overall it portrays a negative and impractical lifestyle. Since the start of the show, the choreography has become increasingly provocative, as well as the overall storyline. This show that has been popular amongst tween school children is now far too mature for their viewing. If these ideals and images are imprinted in their minds and considered acceptable behavior, they will most likely try to recreate these seemingly perfect yet completely inappropriate relationships in their own lives. The show also promotes pre-marital sex, which leads to teenage pregnancy, STDs, and girls losing self-respect.
“Kids tend to idolize and imitate who they see on television, but this behavior is not always acceptable for people their own age, or just people in general,” junior Alexa Toyas said. Characters on Glee are looked up to. Kids around school wear shirts advertising them, and when their behavior is provocative, young children will follow because they think that’s acceptable when a famous person does it.”
People may say that the show is entertaining and they can tell that it is strictly for that purpose and shouldn’t be relied on for morals, but younger audiences may not be able to tell the difference between entertainment and reality. It is also unrealistic in the sense of their performances. No high school has the budget for the elaborate staging, costumes, and background performers that are shown in practically every song. Regular high schools don’t even put on that kind of performance for a formal concert.
Glee was meant to be an entertaining show to watch, yet unfortunately it has taken a downturn and has started to affect certain audiences adversely. The producers of Glee should consider reverting back to their original plans, and hopefully they will be able to clean up their act.