Written by John Edward Betancourt One unfortunate truth about television and film, is that both mediums have presented Latin Americans in a supremely negative light for decades on end. To the point now, where it is almost commonplace for Latin American men to be portrayed as thugs or gangster-esque characters of low intelligence, complete with uncouth nature, in popular media. Not to mention, that similar low expectations exist for Latin American women in television and film. Since they tend to be portrayed as boisterous and grating and/or take part in destructive lifestyles, and it doesn’t end there. Since these portrayals also feature ugly stereotypes that are embarrassing and cliché in nature, and well… thankfully we are reaching a point where such an unfortunate truth is beginning to come to an end. In part because there is a titanic shift in the industry, wherein people behind the scenes are speaking up about the need to end the negative portrayals and stereotypes that have been present for far too long, and so are audiences. Which is creating change, and that change is also being spearheaded by under-represented individuals. Who understand the importance of shattering tropes and stereotypes and how the industry should instead, showcase the wonder of other cultures and lifestyles, and one particular show that is leading the charge in such matters, is Lopez vs Lopez on NBC. For this sitcom goes beyond mere laughs. It really is a trailblazing series, one that is the most important television show on the air right now and well, here is why. Simply because… this really is a series that is tearing down the many stereotypes that are cast upon Latin Americans in the television landscape. For every single character in this show, is the polar opposite of what we normally see. For there are no thugs here, no sassy catchphrases and other such nonsense. We are instead presented with a wondrous family, filled with people who harbor hopes, dreams, great intelligence and great drive to be better people and that truly is something new and exciting to see regarding the portrayal of Latin American individuals on television. Since it showcases Latin-A individuals as they are; everyday people who happen to be tied to a rich culture, and it is that culture that also helps to make this show so important and so revolutionary in nature. Because this series, showcases often the rich traditions that permeate Latin culture. But in a supremely unique manner. Wherein they aren’t spotlighted in a way that calls them out, they’re simply part of the fabric of the show, and where Mayan and her family just take part in them. Which allows for the audience to simply immerse themselves in those traditions and experience their wonder. Giving rise to a beautiful education for those who aren’t aware of such traditions, while also allowing for inclusivity to take place. Since any Latin American individual familiar with them, will feel right at home when watching the show. Such as those of us who have had the honor of attending a quinceañera or know of a mother’s love of tinsel on the Christmas tree so that La Buena Noche is a perfect noche indeed. Pero, while those elements alone would allow for this series to stand out and trailblaze, and be as important as it is, there are still more reasons that this series needs to be celebrated. Such as the fact… that it is truly a progressive thinking series. For this is that rare show that is eager to also hold up a mirror to the toxic aspects of Latin American culture, and the toxic traits and behaviors that people from all walks of life take part in, and address how we fix them. Because this is a series grounded in what it means to grow as individuals and what it would take to heal a family in 2024, and the only way to do that, is to explore the root cause at hand and what steps have to be taken to heal from it and move on from it. Which brings forth some powerful stories for certain, that leave us with plenty to think upon. All of which really does give rise to one revolutionary series. One that just so happens to be a funny sitcom as well, which allows for the lessons at hand to be easily digested. But truly, this is a series that needs to be spotlighted, fawned over, and seen and spoken of as often as possible. For showrunner Debby Wolfe, and stars George Lopez, and his daughter Mayan, have done something incredible here. They’ve given rise to a wonderous story that celebrates so much, tackles so much and truly taps into the zeitgeist of the moment. But above all, they’ve created a wondrous and breathtaking sitcom that transcends the nonsense that has hung over television for far too long, to present us with a story about the human condition and what it takes to find happiness, and thankfully, we don’t have to wait all that much longer to experience its wonder once again. For Lopez vs Lopez returns to the airwaves tonight on NBC with back-to-back episodes at 8:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. EST, and we here at NTG simply cannot wait to watch more of this critically important show, and geek out about it with all of you. Because this series… really is something special… thanks to its brave storytelling and desire to finally showcase Latin Americans in an honest light.
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