Sitcoms are back! On Adults & Overcompensating

If you have been online in the past two weeks, then you have probably seen various memes either quoting Hailee, the hilarious character played by Holmes from Overcompensating. Or possibly the fan edits of the new White boy of the month, Paul Baker, aka Jack Innanen from Adults.  

Overcompensating is a satirical retelling of Benito Skinner’s real-life coming-out journey.

A popular criticism of Overcompensating is that the actors are too old to play college students. While this is valid, most shows about high schoolers and college students are played by actors significantly older. I’d rather the characters look too old than too young doing drugs and sexual acts. The show reminds me of Pen15 in the way that the viewer is required to suspend disbelief while watching. Having the characters played by 30-year-olds only adds to the fantastical, overdramatic, and hilarious story of Benny’s coming out. It’s easy to assume that everyone is on the same level when it comes to gay rights. However, given our current political climate, shows about real gay experiences are needed now more than ever. 

My only complaint about Overcompensating is that it should have been a limited series. The season ends on a cliffhanger that could have been explained with one more episode. This trend of dragging out shows for the sake of it? It needs to end. There is nothing wrong with a limited series! 

That is not the case, however, for FX’s show Adults.

From the first scene, Adults hooks you. The common thread between both shows is Owen Thiele. The show follows 5 best friends who live together and get up to shenanigans that only 20-somethings in New York could get into. From housing a pregnant teen, to helping her get an abortion, to becoming friends with a wanted stabber. This show will have you actually laughing out loud. 

Jack Inannen’s portrayal of Paul Baker was the biggest surprise. Starting his career on TikTok, then pivoting to acting with Adults, he has become an instant fan favorite. I see a very long career in comedy for him. Besides him being indescribably hot and funny, his character, Paul Baker, is worthy of all the praise. Who knew we needed better white male bisexual representation in the media? That being said, Jack, I’m dropping hints that I'm single…

The best part about this show is that you’ll find yourself rooting for every character. Typically, with sitcoms, there is a character who you are supposed to hate. Not here. Each character is hilarious in their own way. They can also all stand on their own, but work best together. Personally, I’m an Issa with an Anton moon and Issa rising. Side note: Issa and Billie are having a bob-off and Issa is winning!

Everyone needs to tune into Adults and Overcompensating so we can get second seasons! The people yearn for lighthearted, funny, and sexy TV. 

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