While streaming on Netflix, teen drama, “Thirteen Reasons Why”  has been the topic of many disputes concerning what is acceptable and what goes too far. When on the topic of mental health, the portrayal has been controversial as to whether the show glorifies suicidal thoughts or offers help to diminish them. In the first two seasons, the show was on a roll, but season three couldn’t keep the show afloat with only a 7% on Rotten Tomatoes. It is safe to say that it did not exactly raise awareness this time around.

With the first two season revolving around main character Hannah Baker’s suicide and the trial against her once high school, season three is a far stretch from what the show initially tried to cover based on mental health and the pressures of high school. Now season three pegs the question of, who killed Bryce Walker? That’s right, Hannah’s rapist and antagonist of the show. The poster that was released for the show depicts the main characters of the show standing over a casket looking very worried. This might as well be a prime example of “you can copy my work but don’t make it too obvious” referring to the popular drama “Pretty Little Liars.” But what could be more relatable to a teen audience than one character killing another? Most of us are just trying to get our homework done and not trying to cover up a murder, but thanks “13 Reasons Why” for making your show so relatable to teens. 

One could argue that the main purpose of the show is to show that each individual has a story to be told and everyone is carrying a heavy load, and the idea is not to judge anyone. Season 3 serves as a redemption tour for Bryce Walker as we delve deeper into the way that he is and if he is sorry for his actions.

We learn of his troubled home life, peer pressure and a struggling relationship with his mother. While trying to make Bryce an okay character, the other characters struggle with common social issues that affect the every-day youth: sexual assault, abortion, suicide, bullying, gun violence, and illegal immigration. 

What this show fails to do is focus on a singular issue and delve deeper into the emotional trauma. Instead, it tries to fit every single issue in America into a limited series leading to an overwhelming amount of, wait, where did that come from? For watchers to truly connect, they have to see the development of these issues and the long term effects so they can relate to them personally. But I guess everyone loves a good murder mystery, but next time (or next season), let’s try and put the real issues at the forefront.