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Have any TV Critics ever changed their opinion on a TV show after it gained popularity or infamy?

Ed Powlesland

Hey there!

To answer your question, yes, there have been instances where TV critics have changed their opinion on a show after it gained popularity or notoriety. One recent example of this is the show "13 Reasons Why."

When the show premiered on Netflix in 2017, it received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised its honest portrayal of issues such as suicide and sexual assault, while others criticized its graphic and potentially triggering content. However, the show quickly gained a massive following among teenage viewers, and many people praised its willingness to tackle difficult topics that are often ignored in mainstream media.

As the show gained more and more attention, some critics began to reevaluate their initial opinions. Some, like Vox's Todd VanDerWerff, admitted that they had been too quick to dismiss the show's impact and relevance. Others, like The Guardian's Lucy Mangan, acknowledged that while they still had reservations about the show's handling of certain topics, they now saw its popularity as a sign that young people were hungry for honest and nuanced discussions about mental health and trauma.

Of course, not all critics changed their minds about "13 Reasons Why." Some continued to argue that the show was glamorizing suicide and trivializing complex issues, and others simply didn't enjoy the show on a personal level. But the fact that some critics did adjust their opinions is a reminder that popular opinion can influence critical opinion, and that a show's impact goes beyond just its technical merits or flaws.

Another example of this phenomenon is the show "Game of Thrones." When the show first premiered in 2011, it was met with a mix of excitement and skepticism. Many critics praised its stunning visuals and epic storytelling, but others criticized its gratuitous violence and sexual content. However, as the show became a cultural phenomenon and one of the most-watched programs in television history, some critics who were initially skeptical began to embrace it.

For example, in 2014, The Atlantic's Christopher Orr wrote a piece titled "How 'Game of Thrones' Became Unstoppable," in which he acknowledged that despite his initial misgivings, the show had become essential viewing for millions of people. Similarly, in 2016, The New Yorker's Emily Nussbaum, who had been critical of the show in the past, wrote a glowing review of its sixth season, praising its "exceptional storytelling" and "narrative muscle."

Again, not all critics jumped on the "Game of Thrones" bandwagon. Some continued to dislike the show or question its artistic merit. But the fact that some critics changed their minds over the course of its eight-season run is a testament to its cultural impact and enduring popularity.

Overall, it's important to remember that while critics can provide valuable insights and perspectives, they are not infallible or immune to the influence of popular opinion. As viewers, we have the power to form our own opinions and decide for ourselves what is worth watching and why.