Analysis Of Television Show Shameless

I am writing a review on the very popular television show, Shameless. In part, this is one of my favorite shows, and it deals with current social and economic issues relevant in today’s society. Shameless is a drama-comedy, currently in its seventh season, set on the south-side of Chicago. There is a British television of the same name, based in Manchester that premiered in 2004. The American re-creation of Shameless premiered in 2011 and follows the lives of the dysfunctional, yet perseverant Gallagher family who are trying to make ends meet day after day. From working multiple jobs to stealing the family does whatever they can to survive. The Gallagher kids learn how to take care of themselves with the help of their neighbors, Veronica

The show takes place on the south side of Chicago, and it accurately depicts, the violence that is prevalent there today. I think a main drawback of Shameless is that it often glorifies The Gallagher’s lifestyle. The family lives in filth and deplorable conditions. Shameless also extols some of The Gallagher’s actions such as crime and violence. Although family members earn some of their money through regular jobs, the show also depicts members stealing to help make ends meet. The show glorifies robbery throughout the show, and it is not a positive message. The writers portray the characters as feeling good and having fun by stealing things, while I think it is a terrible message to send to today’s youth who are watching. The Gallagher’s involvement in selling drugs and weapons to earn ‘dirty money’ are another negative twist that highlights their lifestyle. Carl was convicted and sent to a juvenile detention center for his involvement in selling weed. When Carl was released, he began selling weapons at school and was making thousands of dollars. With this money, he was able to bring in “luxury items” like name brand groceries, alcohol, and other things the family had never had previously. Carl did not get in trouble with other family members because they are desperate for money which is a realistic description of their

Overall, Shameless is an amazing show for a mature audience. I know certain people who would love the show and others who would not care to watch. In my opinion, late teens and young adults are the target audience. The accurate portrayal of social issues and actions in Shameless are to mature for middle schoolers and even some high schoolers. The show is inappropriate for younger children. Shameless is an excellent show to help portray and illustrate relevant hot topics in today’s