If there’s one factor “Insecure” may be very safe about it’s the impression the present has had.
Beneath, CNN’s senior producer Kendall Trammell and affiliate tradition author Leah Asmelash clarify extra about their private connections to the present:
Trammell: “Insecure” stuffed a void for Black ladies TV hardly ever highlighted: the multi-dimensional Black lady. Sure, we beloved the celebration and adoption of #BlackGirlMagic, however let’s not neglect in regards to the weight Black ladies have carried to be glorious 24/7, usually placing their very own wants — their careers, their romantic wishes, their psychological well being — on the again burner. That’s why “Insecure” related with so many Black ladies.
The present acknowledges our lives may be/will likely be/are messy. Even when it feels just like the world doesn’t perceive the plight of Black ladies, a few of us can discover refuge in our fellow Black ladies mates and know our imperfections will likely be embraced. As a result of they’re feeling it, too.
I do know it firsthand having a handful of “Insecure” followers as mates who’re additionally Black ladies. Earlier than the pandemic, we knew we’d be collectively at somebody’s home laughing, hollering and typically crying watching “Insecure.” So, the start of the top of this present is private for me. As a result of as I matured in my 20s, Issa and her mates helped me notice how a lot I valued my very own. And for that, I’m really grateful.
Asmelash: I agree, Kendall. There’s a second in Season 2 of “Insecure” when, gathered round a dinner desk, Issa and Co. lament over the Popeyes close to her condo remodeling right into a Pinkberry frozen yogurt store. A couple of episodes later, we see Issa strolling down her quickly gentrifying neighborhood, previous the “Now Leasing” indicators and the brand new espresso store. In her palms is the signature white Pinkberry cup.
It’s an simply neglected second within the present, however it’s one I’ve returned to usually for its clear show of one thing I had but to see with Black ladies, or any ladies of colour: nuance. That Issa can each mourn the turning demographics of her neighborhood whereas additionally casually partaking — even having fun with — a number of the adjustments felt like a revelation.
For higher or for worse, “Insecure” exhibits all the things. Episodes casually mirror what, to me, seems like on a regular basis life. After all, the present makes me snort, cry, and even groan. However extra importantly, it makes me really feel understood.
