Is Your Favorite Show Secretly Wealth Porn? The Shocking Truth About TV's Obsession With the Rich!
by Albert Inestein in TelevisionA recent article discusses the oversaturation of wealthy characters in television shows. While initially, shows like Succession used wealth as a tool to explore themes of morality and the consequences of unchecked power, many shows now simply showcase lavish lifestyles without deeper meaning. The author observes a "slow creep of aspiration" in television, with increasingly opulent sets, clothing, and furnishings becoming a distraction from the plot. Shows like The Better Sister and Sirens are cited as examples of programs prioritizing visual luxury over compelling narratives. The author argues that depicting extreme wealth is acceptable if it serves a purpose, but when it becomes the sole focus, it creates a disconnect between the viewer and the characters' realities. The article concludes by calling for a halt to the "Selling Sunset-ification" of television, suggesting that the constant portrayal of upscale comfort doesn't inspire envy but rather a sense of detachment and a worry that these characters are completely out of touch with real life.
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