Is Waiting to Exhale on Netflix?
Overview of the Show
Waiting to Exhale is a popular American television series that aired on Fox from 1995 to 1998. The show was created by Kimberly A. Brown and was produced by ABC Networks and CBS. The series was based on the novel of the same name by Angela Bassett, which was published in 1985.
The show revolved around the lives of a group of African American friends in Los Angeles, particularly in the wealthy African American community of Wilmington. The series followed the experiences of four young women, played by Angela Bassett, Rudy Riley, Yolanda Brown, and Wendell Pierce, as they navigated love, relationships, and careers.
Characters and Recurring Themes
- Angela Bassett played the lead role of Suggs, a talented and fashionable hotel manager who becomes involved with Wendell Pierce.
- Rudy Riley played the role of Suggs‘ younger sister, who struggles with her family’s wealth and reputation.
- Yolanda Brown played the role of Suggs‘ older sister, who is a teacher and a voice of reason.
- Wendell Pierce played the role of Spencer, a handsome and charismatic store clerk who becomes involved with Angela Bassett.
Recurring Themes
- Family Drama: The show explores the complex relationships between family members, particularly Suggs and his siblings.
- Relationships: The series delves into various romantic relationships, including Suggs‘ experiences with love and relationships.
- Social Class: The show addresses the social and economic differences between the wealthy African American community and the working class.
Episode Structure
Each episode typically features a self-contained story, while also contributing to the overall arc of the season. The show’s format is often described as a " serialized drama", with each episode building on the previous one to create a complex and engaging narrative.
Plot Holes and Criticisms
Despite its positive reception during its initial run, Waiting to Exhale has been criticized for several plot holes and inconsistencies. Some of the criticisms include:
- Lack of Diversity: The show was criticized for its lack of diversity, particularly in its cast and the portrayal of African American characters.
- Exploitation of 90s Culture: The show’s portrayal of 90s culture, including its music, fashion, and social issues, has been criticized for its superficiality and lack of nuance.
- Unrealistic Portrayal of Relationships: The show’s depiction of relationships has been criticized for its unrealistic portrayal of intimacy, communication, and emotional vulnerability.
Impact on the African American Community
Waiting to Exhale has had a lasting impact on the African American community, particularly in terms of its portrayal of African American women and the experiences of African American women in the 1990s.
- Ratings and Sales: The show was a ratings success during its initial run, but its sales and ratings declined significantly after its cancellation.
- Influence on Future TV Shows: Waiting to Exhale has influenced future TV shows, including Soul Food and The Game, which also explored similar themes of African American relationships and social class.
Conclusion
Waiting to Exhale is a highly-rated and influential TV show that explores the lives of a group of African American friends in Los Angeles. While the show has its flaws, including a lack of diversity and unrealistic portrayals of relationships, it remains a significant part of TV history and a testament to the diversity and complexity of African American experiences.
Key Statistics
| Statistic | Attendance | Ratings | Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| Watchers | 31.7 million | 19.1 million (live + same day) | 0 |
| Average Ratings | 3.6/10 | 3.1/10 | 0 |
| IMDB Ratings | 4.5/10 | 4.5/10 | 0 |
Recommendation
Waiting to Exhale is a show that requires a certain level of tolerance and understanding of its themes and issues. While it may not be suitable for all audiences, it is a significant part of TV history and a testament to the diversity and complexity of African American experiences.
If you’re a fan of drama, relationships, and social class, Waiting to Exhale may be a show worth checking out. However, if you’re looking for a more nuanced and realistic portrayal of these themes, you may want to consider other options.