I was very excited about Lucy Hale’s show Katy Keene. First, because of Lucy and second, because it was going to be a show about fashion. Not just that, but Lucy in another fashionista role. She played Aria on Pretty Little Liars, who had one of my favorite styles. But what I got from Katy Keene was so much more.
Katy Keene isn’t just a show about following your fashion dreams. It’s about following your New York City dreams. Something I can relate to. While the only character that isn’t a native New Yorker is Josie (Ashleigh Murray), anyone with a vision of making it in NYC can take inspiration from the characters.
It’s not easy, as anyone who lives in NYC knows. Though, it’s not quite as glamorous as the show may portray. Before lockdown, I didn’t have a lot of nights out, and I’m not going to fabulous fashion events. Though, I have been to several TV events in NY and San Diego.
One of my favorite moments was when Josie thought the rent for the entire two-bedroom apartment was $400. She didn’t realize that was her share. And that’s cheap, granted she was sleeping on a couch in the living room.
I lived in Washington Heights when I first got to New York, so I can attest that the room size is pretty accurate, unlike other shows like Friends and How I Met Your Mother.
The Bold Type also has a more precise portrayal of an apartment for NYC, though, I’m not sure which part of Manhattan Jane lives in.
It’s refreshing to see a show that’s truthful about life in NYC.
The reason why it’s easy to fall in love with these characters is that you are rooting for them. You want to see them succeed. And you feel the moments when they don’t get their dream.
Katy has had so many ups and downs on her way to being a fashion designer. She’s exceptionally talented but can’t get the break she’s looking for.
Josie is having an equally hard time breaking into the music industry. When she thinks she’s done it, she takes three steps back.
Jorge (Jonny Beauchamp) has had his struggles as well, trying to become a Broadway star. He’s also been trying to find himself through all of this. I’m hoping we get a second season so we can see his journey of working on himself—something we should all prioritize in our lives.
Pepper (Julia Chan) is the greatest hustler I have ever seen. While I don’t agree with all of her methods, I do believe that we have to spin the truth to get ahead. Not lie, but present yourself in a better light. Her storyline has been quite exciting and heartbreaking to watch, and I can’t wait to see what’s next for her.
Josie and Katy also have journeys I want to continue to watch. They all have significant setbacks happening at the end of the season, but somehow you know they will find their way through the obstacles.
Katy Keene is a hopeful show that makes us believe in our own dreams. In a time of uncertainty, we need inspiring shows and characters to encourage us to continue to fight for our dreams.
For me, it’s been a great show to watch as my own NYC dream hasn’t been going to plan lately, even before the shutdown. But I pull myself back up just like Katy, Jorge, Josie, and Pepper.
The CW has all season one of Katy Keene episodes online and on The CW app. The season one finale airs Thursday, May 14, 8 pm ET | 7 pm CT.
Check it out! You won’t be disappointed. If you have been watching Katy, Jorge, Josie, and Pepper on their NYC journeys, I want to know what you think. Tweet me @MandyTTCarr or comment below.
