Everyone has their opinion on what makes a good TV show but sometimes the hype surrounding a series clouds people's judgment. Reddit User m4yoNaise wanted to hear others' opinions on what was the worst show to become popular?
Users had some pretty big opinions whether that be how repetitive a series became, questionable casting choices, or simply just how much it was overhyped. The power of social media is a great one in promoting shows that aren't particularly that amazing but here are a few "bad" shows that Reddit users believe didn't deserve their popularity.
Pretty Little Liars (2010-2017)
Pretty Little Liars had all the characteristics of being a good teen mystery, it had a great cast, interesting subplots, and even some pretty adorable couples - but looking back on the evolution of the show, Reddit users question how good the popular show actually was. Mystery series require good plot twists to avoid becoming boring, however, Pretty Little Liars is one show that fell victim to this, with Reddit User Mail_Order_Lutefisk claiming they were "furious about how it got so repetitive so fast".
Each episode fell into the habit of pinpointing yet another individual who had the potential to be A but ultimately the chosen target would not be the person the girls suspected. Although the series had some major flaws, it retained its popularity through interesting romantic pairings alongside some deep character development as seen by Emily.
13 Reasons Why (2017- 2020)
13 Reasons Why made waves when it was released due to it being one of the first teen shows to focus solely on mental health in such a raw and emotive way. However, [deleted] was one former fan that claimed the show was "melodramatic [and] not informative", the show focussed heavily on mental health but in some parts failed to provide informative support for viewers.
There was little to no mention of support groups and the show even suggested that not everyone will take them seriously if they seek help. Overall, 13 Reasons Why could have been more informative in terms of support but it also showcased some topics that sparked an important conversation. It tackled some taboo topics as seen in season 3 but viewers were quick to label season 1 of 13 reasons why the best for its representation of Hannah's story.
Friends (1994-2004)
Friends has remained a comfort show for many viewers across the world, it follows 5 friends throughout their lives and sees them get tied up in awkward relationships, sticky situations, and dead-end jobs. Reddit User giraffewoman was just one viewer that was quick to share that they "didn’t get the appeal" behind friends.
Sitcoms are usually centered around families or couples which is perhaps why it didn't fit the usual conventions associated with sitcoms. If one was to watch Friends now they probably would have to look past the outdated stereotypes and jokes that would now be seen as problematic. However, the show still holds its popularity despite some saying it was oversold as funny when it was actually just cringeworthy.
Riverdale (2017- )
Riverdale hit screens in 2017 as a teen drama that went beyond the stereotypical conventions seen in some teenage dramas, the show incorporated beautiful cinematography and unusual storylines which saw it rise to fame. However, some viewers including kermi42 claim that the "show is so stupid and trashy", Riverdale does not shy away from being over the top with its melodramatic acting with the writers even incorporating some musical numbers.
The show may sometimes be a cringe-worthy watch but its quirky moments has resulted in its success with kermi42 going on to add that they "still love it [and] it's not even a guilty pleasure". Some viewers may find the musical numbers a step too far and question some of the dialogue but hardcore fans continue to advocate that it makes the show even more lovable.
The Walking Dead (2010-2022)
The Walking Dead proved popular from the moment it hit screens, it showed brutal scenes in a post-apocalyptic zombie world but some viewers argue that the well-loved show wasn't actually that good. Reddit User sweetrebel88 stated that the "show is so overrated" with other viewers arguing that The Walking Dead was no different from any other post-apocalyptic series.
However, the show remained popular, breaking viewing records continuously until these dropped resulting in the series ending. The show may not have been to everyone's tastes with brutal scenes of violence with The Walking Dead having a seriously high kill count but this doesn't seem to bother other viewers, which is perhaps why the show continues to be binge-watched even now.
The Simpsons (1989- )
The Simpsons have become a well-known name within many households with the chaotic family becoming a staple in the world of animation and comedy. However, the show's long reign has become more of a curse than a blessing with LexLuthorJr stating that "people watch it more out of obligation than actually enjoying it".
The show can only produce so many storylines which is why some fans have become bored of it but many fans continue to be dedicated to the show which is why some may see it as an obligation rather than a pleasurable watch. The show however continues to be a popular series highlighted by its 33 seasons ongoing.
Modern Family (2009-2020)
Modern Family follows three families through their chaotic lives, often resulting in a dramatic, emotional, or hilarious situation. The show has attracted many fans due to its relatable but unique family however ribbonwine shared that "recently it's been tired".
Like all sitcoms, Modern Family has become a bit too familiar for some fans with many stating that its traditional sitcom structure is now mirrored in each episode. Whilst binge-watching is thoroughly enjoyable especially for shows as binge-worthy as Modern Family. This cultural phenomenon can also be a curse with fans skipping episodes of Modern Family quicker than if they watched it slower which is perhaps why some fans have grown tired of the show.
The Big Bang Theory (2007-2019)
The Big Bang Theory garnered a large fan base with many relating to the four main characters due to their shyness around Penny. However, what was once a charming show grew to irritate viewers with the laugh track covering up the awkward silences.
Reddit User kermi42 stated "it's almost like when you write the jokes to be punctuated with a laugh track" which is why many viewers turned their backs on the show. TBBT made a name for itself in its time but the structure of the show proved to irritate viewers towards the end, which is perhaps reasoning for its demise but it's safe to say in its prime it was a highly popular show.
How I Met Your Mother (2005-2014)
How I Met Your Mother follows Ted as he tells his children the story of how he met their mother, the show ran from 2005 and 2014 with many viewers completely invested in Ted and Robin's love story. Despite the show's success, some viewers became bored highlighted by Nowthatisfresh who claims the couple "were just awful". The couple's story became a bit repetitive at times but that is expected when the plot of the show revolves around them.
Viewers were quick to defend those who felt that the main love story had become annoying by claiming that Ted and Robin were the most relatable couple to watch. The pair showcased all the real elements of true love which saw many fans completely invested in the couple's past and future.
Two Broke Girls (2011-2017)
Two Broke Girls follows Max and Caroline who dream of starting their own cupcake business but in the meantime work as waitress. The show had the potential to be good with an interesting and relatable premise but unfortunately for many, the show failed to deliver. However, others deemed the show to be one of the funniest sitcoms they'd seen, resulting in it running for 6 seasons.
Many were shocked that the show wasn't canceled with 3L1z4b3th sharing that they "TOTALLY thought it would be canceled after a few episodes" but the show proved many wrong. Two Broke Girls was an unusual comedy with two female leads and was potentially why the show lasted so long but for other viewers, the show didn't quite deliver the interesting storyline it promised.