Posi thoughts first: I was really touched w/how Supergirl handled the Alex/Maggie breakup. Unfortunately, LGBT representation is often marred w/plot points involving untimely, tragic deaths. But not so for Supergirl. Their writers showed much respect for their characters by allowing them to have an honest convo about their relationship and it resulted in an emotional farewell to a well-liked character. It was moving and sad, but free of any untimely deaths. I was really touched.

Neg thoughts go to The Orville this week, which is a shame since the episode from last week was the show’s best. This week, depicted a character that was in “heat.” So, basically, thanks to horny pheromones, dude caused three people to become involved in sexual relationships they otherwise would have avoided. In short, he phero-drugged them. And that’s supposed to be ok? Apparently since he was not disciplined. It was gross and as someone that was roofied once, I kind of found it triggering.

@CruelSister My boyfriend watches the Orville and tries to tell me about it all the time. I gave up on it after episode 3. Can't watch it, too toxic.

@RadMissFliss I’ve actually not been overwhelming offended by any of the past episodes, although the one about changing the alien baby’s sex was a little weird, I don’t feel like it’s conclusion was toxic. I’ve been referring to the series as peak “security blanket” tv, because it’s basically a by the book homage to ST: TNG. And last week’s Claire and Isaac-centric episode really helped cement the doctor as a strong female character. Still, last week’s episode was cringeworthy.

@CruelSister Upon any kind of close examination, The Orville lacks any real originality or depth. The episode in question was a direct rip-off of To Kill A Mockingbird, but was so unfocused that it really didn't end up discussing the ethics of performing surgery on a child but rather the benefits of having women in a society - two very different (but important) discussions. The whole show is made up of easily-slottable tropes taken from all over TV and painted as ST:TNG. IMHO.

@RadMissFliss Ahhh, I hadn’t even thought of linking it to TKAM. Although, the plot was convoluted enough that I’m still having trouble linking it to the book now that you’ve brought it up. And yes, I agree with all of your other points, but I’m hardly ever watching anything by Seth McFarlane w/my thinking cap on, nor do I hold any of it to a particularly high standard. I’m not at all trying to criticize you for not liking it! Hope I didn’t come off that way.

@CruelSister No, you didn't really. I go into defensive mode about The Orville because I've been attacked over it before (usually by Trekkies who think it's soooo progressive and I should be happy anyone's even mentioning the "trans issue" on TV even if it doesn't really cover the topic or paint it in a positive light).