How 'Ready or Not' Redefined the Teen Genre: A Look Back

"Ready or Not" was one of my favorite programs when I was a teen. From 1993 to 1997, the Canadian television program "Ready or Not" followed the lives of Amanda Zimm and Elizabeth "Busy" Ramone, two teenage best friends, as they dealt with high school, family issues, and growing up in general. The program was popular at the time it debuted, and fans still adore it today.

A factor that contributed to the show's popularity was its strong and relatable characters. Amanda and Busy were not typical teen TV show stereotypes; they were complex and multi-dimensional characters with genuine hopes, fears, and struggles. They were relatable to viewers going through the ups and downs of adolescence, and their friendship was a central focus of the show. Aside from Amanda and Busy, the show featured a diverse cast of characters from various backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. This was unusual for a 1990s show, and it allowed viewers to see themselves and their experiences reflected on screen.

The show's popularity in the 1990s can be attributed in part to the fact that it dealt with weighty topics rarely discussed on other teen-targeted programs at the time. The show addressed a variety of issues, including drug use, alcoholism, racism, sexism, homophobia, and mental health. It did so in a relatable and authentic manner, never shying away from the harsh realities of adolescent life. For example, racism was addressed in "Ready or Not," as when Busy is subjected to racial profiling while shopping at a store or when Amanda confronts a classmate who makes a racist remark.

In terms of feminist themes and messages, "Ready or Not" was ahead of its time. The show was created and produced by women, and it frequently addressed patriarchy and gender inequality. For example, after a friend is assaulted, Amanda and Busy attend a self-defense class, and the show emphasizes the importance of empowering women to defend themselves. The show also featured strong female characters who were not afraid to speak up for themselves and others.

The fact that I never felt like they were talking down to me or dumbing down the material was something that really stood out to me as a teen watching this show. One of my favorite episodes was the one where they discussed mental health: "Ready or Not" consistently and sensitively portrayed mental health throughout the entire series. For instance, the show examines the effects of Amanda's father's depression on his family and how it affects him. Additionally, Amanda and Busy manage their own mental health issues, such as stress and anxiety. The show's emphasis on getting help is what makes its portrayal of mental health so current. In many episodes, the characters seek out guidance from adults or experts, whether it be Amanda telling her guidance counselor about a problem or Busy going to therapy for her anxiety. The show spreads a message of empowerment and hope by featuring characters taking initiative to address their mental health. The show's focus on reaching out for assistance also reflects a societal shift that occurred in the 1990s. At this time, people were starting to talk more openly about using therapy and medication to deal with mental health issues. "Ready or Not" paved the way by showing that it's strong, not weak, to ask for help when you're having mental health problems by depicting characters who do so.

The show's portrayal of family dynamics was another significant element. Frequently, "Ready or Not" depicted Amanda and Busy coping with family conflicts, such as parents divorcing or siblings fighting. These issues were rarely depicted in teen television programs at the time, and they added depth to the characters and their experiences. The show's portrayal of family dynamics also struck a chord with viewers of all ages, not just teenagers, but caregivers and parents who could identify with the challenges of parenting and resolving family conflicts. "Ready or Not" offered a rare glimpse into the enduring complexity of family life by realistically and compassionately depicting family issues.

In its day, "Ready or Not" addressed significant issues like mental health, diversity, and family dynamics. It was a show that was both timely and revolutionary. Its sensitive and open portrayal of these subjects aided in normalizing mental health discussions and advancing the ideas of empowerment and self-care. As a result, "Ready or Not" has remained a popular and significant program that appeals to viewers of all ages.