13 Reasons Why adds another warning: Does it need it?

Without a doubt, Netflix’s 13 Reasons Why is a controversial series, but that’s kind of the point. This is a series that is meant to get people talking about a few intensely difficult topics that are often not spoken about. There is a graphic nature about this show, which makes sense given the subject matter, and while it is difficult to watch at times, there are warnings in place before you go into certain episodes to prepare you for what’s coming up. Some critics are saying that the warning cards already in place are not enough and that the show is glamorizing suicide – definitely not what we thought when watching this show. For us, there was something very raw and honest about this show, which seems to be a trend with television in general right now with shows like this or HBO’s Insecure.

As for how the streaming giant should respond to said controversy, that is another discussion altogether. Some find the depiction of suicide, rape, and other issues too graphic while others have claimed that the show glorifies suicide. This further shows that you can’t make everyone happy, but given that this is a show featuring young characters, we do understand the interest in treating the subject more sensitively.

Does that mean that including further warnings about the content of the series, both before watching the show and before each episode, is going to be the right way to handle the issue? Netflix did announce these additions recently; a statement via The Hollywood Reporter details that further:

“While many of our members find the show to be a valuable driver for starting important conversation with their families, we have also heard concern from those who feel the series should carry additional advisories … Currently the episodes that carry graphic content are identified as such and the series overall carries a TV-MA rating. Moving forward, we will add an additional viewer warning card before the episode as an extra precaution for those about to start the series.”

We agree that while it’s good to inform potential viewers that there is graphic content ahead, it is hard to imagine that such warnings will dissuade influential viewers from watching. This is a show that has a certain pop-culture consciousness where it’s become important to watch it, especially if it is in your particular age range. The bigger issue the show faces is one out of its control: Education. If there are younger viewers watching the show, it is up to parents to have the right conversations with these viewers about what they see and what the takeaways are. It is important to see suicide presented in a way that is real; yet, it is also important to define that this is a television show, and it should not be treated as real life.

One way or another, people should watch 13 Reasons Why. They just need to either decide for themselves if they are ready, or have a support system nearby to have the conversations if it turns out to be something more than expected.

What do you think of Netflix placing additional warnings on the series? Be sure to share now in the attached comments.

Meanwhile, you can head over here to receive some further news regarding the possible future of 13 Reasons Why. (Photo: Netflix.)