This Was Us

Since its release date on September 20, 2016, nearly 7.1 additional viewers have tuned in on Monday nights for Season 2 of This is Us. This is largely due to the easily relatable characters whose personalities many have come to fall in love with. In particular, the story is set in the 1920s and begins with Jack and Rebecca Pearson; they fall madly in love and soon are expecting triplets. However, only two of the infants survive birth. But, as woven throughout the entire season, Rebecca and Jack’s hearts are tenderly expressed when they adopt a little boy, Randall. The story then progresses through the years as Kate, Kevin, and Randall grow up.

From someone who binge-watched twenty-seven episodes in two days, my heart immediately resonated with each character’s journey. Without revealing too many facts, the triplets undergo their individual hardships but remain close, uniting under the phrase “the big three.” Kevin, a rising hollywood actor, learns to branch out on his own while also pursuing what he loves. Kate, the second oldest, struggles with her self-image but always remains a shoulder for others to cry on. Her compassion and beautiful heart keeps her close to her brothers. And, last but not least, Randall Pearson grows up feeling like the odd ball in the family. However, his journey is surrounded by successful grades, college, and family. Many viewers have fallen in love with Randall’s funny, smart, and strong personality. Most of all, his relationship with his wife, Beth, keep the entire show lighthearted and intentional. Through it all, Jack Pearson remains the center of each character’s world as a father, husband, and business owner.

However, this article is dedicated to the riveting, heart-wrenching episode known as “The Car.” In it, producers have ignored the feelings of millions of Americans and decided to pierce our hearts with the death of a character. Honestly, I have restrained from watching the latest episode because I fear my emotions will never be the same, as well as my tear ducts. I would rather have the Pearson family image ingrained in my mind from the jubilant, first episode, not the most recent one.

On a more positive note, to anyone hesitant to watch This Is Us: don’t be. It will forever change the way you view relationships as well as provide a weekly relief from school, drama, friends, and the numerous homework assignments. But remember, “life is full of twists.” Enjoy!