The original post: /r/television by /u/MeanNerve1326 on 2025-07-05 23:49:40.
I recently stumbled upon Parks and Recreation, and it’s quickly becoming one of my favourite sitcoms of all time. The feel-good tone of the show is refreshing, as most of the time, the main character’s conflicts are resolved happily. Even though there are several antagonistic forces, those conflicts are beautifully resolved in a peaceful manner, maintaining the show’s overall uplifting nature.
However, the way the characters treat Jerry Gergich (which is not even his real name, and it’s Larry now?) makes me feel sorrowful. It’s completely at odds with the tone the show usually carries. I’m currently halfway through Season 6, and even the most positive character of them all, Chris Traeger, refuses to give this sweet old grandpa of a character some water when he chokes on a biscuit. What makes it even more heartbreaking is that he’s so softspoken and kind throughout it all. I know the point of the character is that he’s the office clown, but it doesn’t matter to him as he has a beautiful family that anyone would dream of. Even Leslie couldn’t bring herself to stay in Jerry’s warm family hug until it naturally came to an end during his retirement episode.
This constant ridicule upsets me, so I decided to vent here.
P.S. Obviously, I’m only at S06E11, so maybe the main gang eventually decides to finally put some respect on my favourite TV grandpa’s name. So no spoilers, I guess. Thank you.