There are lots of really great reasons to watch Scandal. How do I know? Because I recently became a Scandal fanatic! Given my love for Grey's Anatomy, I'm still surprised that I didn't automatically jump on the new Shonda train, but I didn't get into it until the start of the second season. Thank goodness for Netflix! I got hooked immediately, to the point where I'm heartbroken that the show's on winter hiatus. That cliffhanger! If you haven't yet experienced the joys of this thrilling show, see if these compelling reasons to watch Scandal don't change your mind!
1. A Strong Female Lead
One of the best reasons to watch Scandal is definitely Kerry Washington, in her lead role as Olivia Pope. Olivia gets it done – even in the middle of tawdry affairs and dangerous tension. While you see glimpses of her vulnerability, this woman is loyal to her friends and she is just a terrier. She will do whatever it takes to get her job done and she's always one step ahead of the game. Plus, as you'll see, I love seeing a woman of color in a strong, serious lead role. And Kerry Washington owns this role: Olivia is brilliant, smart, ambitious, and beautiful.
2. The Scandal
As the title of the show itself suggests, there is lots of scandal going on in this drama. There are love stories, murder mysteries, conspiracies, and a whole host of other problems. They don't get old and, as yet, I haven't been able to predict a single story arc. However, nothing seems forced or sensationalized, which is something I can't really say about Grey's Anatomy lately. I still love the medical drama, but Scandal flows smoothly – like Grey's used to do. Maybe that will change with time and further seasons, but right now it still has me hooked.
3. Political Intrigue
The show takes place in Washington, D.C.; it focuses on the president and his cabinet. Of course there are tons of political intrigues! They go deep and they are far reaching beyond belief. There are fireworks (and not the sexy kind) between President Grant and vile VP Sally Langston, fireworks (definitely the sexy kind) between Fitz and Olivia, intrigues between Cyrus and pretty much everyone. I don't know if the White House is really like this, but if it is, I sort of wish they'd put it on TV.
4. A Human President
I'm a Democrat, but can I just say that I would vote for Fitzgerald Grant in a second? I love seeing a fully human president, and while many other presidential based shows have tried to do this, there's just something about Fitz. I mean, his best friend and Chief of Staff, Cyrus Beene (wait for it...) is gay and living with his partner, and Fitz is all for empowering him. He's guilty of so many things, vulnerable in so many ways, hurtful in so many instances, and those are all the things that make him such a well rounded character.
5. Progressive Casting
I briefly alluded to this when talking about the fabulous Kerry Washington. Shonda Rhimes is becoming very well known for her colorblind casting, and I think that's fantastic. Scandal, rather like Grey's Anatomy, represents everyone, but you don't notice it; race and sexuality are rarely the focal points, they do not define the characters. You focus on the actors' talents and the characters' personalities before you focus on anything else.
6. Lots of LGBT Love
That being said, I am so glad to see another loving gay couple on prime time. We're seeing more and more of them, but in this instance, we're seeing them in the White House. The White House! Given this election year in particular, I think that's fabulous. Besides, I am absolutely in love with Dan Bucatinsky, who plays journalist James Novak, Cyrus Beene's partner, and have been since I saw him in All Over the Guy. Anybody recognize him from Grey's Anatomy?
7. Cyrus Beene
Finally, Chief of Staff Cyrus Beene himself is one of MY most compelling reasons for watching this show. The man who played Meredith Grey's milquetoast father shines in this drama. He is amazing. He gave a particularly wonderful, witty, on-point speech – do my fellow fans know which one I'm talking about? Want to recite it with me?
I could probably come up with a dozen more reasons to watch Scandal, but these will suffice for now; I don't want to overwhelm you! It really is a great, thought provoking show. It gets surprisingly racy, but seriously, Cyrus Beene. He's the most compelling reason I have! What are your feelings on Scandal: love it or leave it?
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Scandal about?
- Scandal is a thrilling political drama centered on Olivia Pope, a crisis manager who handles high-profile scandals in Washington, D.C.
- Why is Scandal popular among women?
- The show features strong, complex female characters and explores themes of power, loyalty, and ambition that resonate with many women.
- Who is Olivia Pope?
- Olivia Pope is the main character, a smart and fierce fixer who runs her own crisis management firm.
- Does Scandal have romantic storylines?
- Yes, it includes engaging romantic plots, especially the intense relationship between Olivia Pope and President Fitzgerald Grant.
- Is Scandal empowering for women viewers?
- Absolutely, it showcases powerful women taking control of their lives and careers in male-dominated environments.
- How many seasons does Scandal have?
- Scandal has 7 exciting seasons packed with drama and unexpected twists.
- Are there other strong female characters besides Olivia?
- Yes, characters like Abby Whelan and Mellie Grant also show strength and depth throughout the series.
- Can I watch Scandal if I’m new to political dramas?
- Definitely! Its fast pace and engaging storylines make it accessible even if you’re new to the genre.
- Where can I watch Scandal?
- Scandal is available on various streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu depending on your region.
- What makes Scandal different from other political dramas?
- Its unique mix of scandalous plots, powerful female leads, and emotional storytelling sets it apart.