Fans of The Kardashians seemed eternally loyal, but there are signs that audiences may be getting a little tired of the same old antics. While Hulu is bringing the family a fresh start in many ways, they aren't bringing anything remarkably new to the table. The Kardashian-Jenner family drew people in as candid and confident people who didn't care about outside opinions. Now, it appears that their mindset has changed. Image is the cornerstone of the clan's agenda, and this may mean that all of the carefree humor and nonchalant good times are long dead and buried.
Khloe Kardashian and Kourtney Kardashian were fan favorites thanks to their humor and honesty. Kim Kardashian didn't wrestle like them, but she always looked good. In particular, Khloe captured everyone's hearts with her authentic persona. Arguably, Khloe's third-wheeling to Kourtney's dry wit and Scott Disick's quips and transparency carried the show. Kim and Kris Jenner cared more about the industry, but all of the Kardashian-Jenners moved with a confidence that never seemed to break.
Now, the perfect veneer of wealth and fame isn't as exciting as an unfiltered family working their way to the top. There's a tone shift with the families' move to Hulu, but it may not be enough to capture fans' hearts and souls. The cast also isn't coming through on a promise to be more vulnerable than ever. Arguably, Kim is sharing more, and the show has pivoted to put her at center stage again. However, a repetitive narrative of Khloe feeling insecure with her body image and social media presence while upholding unrealistic standards for women by giving power to these standards isn't compelling. Fans loved her for loving herself and refusing to conform to Hollywood's problematic standards. Watching her self-esteem crumble under mounting pressure isn't fun to watch. While relatable, fans want to see her bounce back unapologetically. They are rooting for her to win, but the wait is exhausting for all parties.
On Kourtney's end, her relationship with Travis Barker is certainly very endearing, but the public displays of affection are not new to the audience. Kourtney and Travis' nuptials will likely be just as exciting as any Kardashian wedding event, but everyone got plenty of vantage points on their love in 2021, including the blowback. More details on Scott's perspective are missing, and one scene with him isn't enough. As mentioned, Scott is a crucial part of the show's appeal. He never fails to be himself while the others cave into societal pressures. Kris also isn't bringing any new vulnerabilities to the series, even though her personal tea with Corey Gamble and the industry is in demand.
Ultimately, people won't stop watching The Kardashians. However, the show may never recapture the voyeuristic joy that Keeping Up With the Kardashians provided. People who don't care about other people's opinions are often admired. Those who consistently seek validation outside of themselves may be playing a losing game. If the family can put happiness and love over power struggles and industry politics, they could satisfy their fans (and themselves) in the process.