As television shows have adapted to new production methods throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, many showrunners have debated whether to incorporate the virus into their storylines or not. Shows like This is Us and The Good Doctor have experimented with this concept, but not without receiving some backlash. Even though introducing COVID-19 to a show’s storyline can add a new dynamic to the plot, there are some pros and cons associated with doing so.

Pro: Comforting to See Characters Relating to Us

Even though everyone under the sun has been affected by the COVID-19 virus in some fashion, it can still bring some comfort to see our favorite characters can relate to this issue as well. This can connect back to any other problem you’ve faced in your life. Let’s say you grew up with divorced parents and never felt that your experiences were represented on television, but once you came across a show with that storyline, you immediately felt connected to that character. This can bring immense comfort to viewers, which has led to showrunners trying to use the pandemic to their advantage in an attempt to evoke these same feelings from viewers.

Con: It Simply Adds to the Covid Fatigue

In this day and age, it seems like all we can think or talk about is the virus. It can be challenging to distract ourselves from something that seems to permeate every conversation we have with others. What makes it even more difficult to distract ourselves is when our favorite television shows begin incorporating it into their storylines. Entertainment is meant to distract people from the stresses of everyday life. When a widespread issue like a pandemic is introduced to the storyline, it can understandably make viewers upset, as they feel they can no longer use their favorite show as an escape from reality. Rather than wanting to tune in, this could tempt many individuals to change the channel rather quickly.

Pro: Adds Historical Accuracy For Future Viewers

When the pandemic is able to be put behind us, adding COVID-19 to a plot can act as a virtual artifact. When shows get added to streaming services, future binge-watchers will be able to see how COVID-19 fit into the storyline and affected everyday life for those of us who lived through it. Even though the pandemic has been a pain to live through, it can act as an interesting addition to shows for future generations to look back upon. 

Con: It Can Seem Forced

Another huge issue people have with COVID-19 being added to storylines is that it simply seems forced. While it might make sense to add the virus into medical shows, it can come off as forced in other cases. Rather than feeling the need to add a dialogue about the virus, many showrunners may be better off just avoiding the subject altogether unless it will serve a real purpose in their plots. Viewers will most likely enjoy having a break from covid-talk rather than seeing it displayed on their screens.