Pop Culture Happy Hour: "Adults" Episode Summary

Release Date: June 4, 2025
Host: Aisha Harris
Guests: Candice Lim, Kiana Fitzgerald

Introduction

In this episode of Pop Culture Happy Hour, hosted by Aisha Harris, the discussion centers around the Gen Z-centric sitcom "Adults." The show, which premiered on Hulu, portrays a group of friends navigating their twenties while cohabiting in Queens, New York. The conversation delves into character dynamics, thematic elements, and the show's reception among the hosts and guests.

Overview of "Adults"

"Adults" follows five main characters:

• Anton (Owen Thiel): Highly sociable with a job he lacks passion for.
• Billy (Lucy Frayer): The group's hustler.
• Issa (Amita Rao): A flighty goofball.
• Paul Baker (Jack Innon): Issa's kind-hearted and ditzy Canadian boyfriend.
• Samir (Malik Alassel): The messiest member, living rent-free with friends while his parents are away.

The show explores the challenges of adulthood, including financial struggles and personal relationships, often infused with humor and relatable scenarios.

Hosts' and Guests' Perspectives

Initial Impressions and Cringe Factor

• Candice Lim (Co-host of Slate's ICYMI Podcast & Former Producer): Described the show as initially "excruciating" and "cringy," especially in the first two episodes where the portrayal felt forced. (07:01) However, she acknowledged improvements in later episodes, highlighting "callbacks" and character development that added depth.

• Kiana Fitzgerald (Author and Freelance Writer): Expressed skepticism about the show's authenticity, questioning whether it serves as a "recession indicator" due to its timing alongside similar shows like "Overcompensating." She felt the characters seemed written from a distance rather than from genuine Gen Z experiences. (05:27)

Comparison to Other Sitcoms

• The hosts compared "Adults" to classics like "Friends," "How I Met Your Mother," and "Broad City," noting similarities in group dynamics and humor. However, they also highlighted differences in tone and character development, especially with the inclusion of serious themes like sexual assault.

• Aisha Harris likened parts of the show to "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia," particularly in how characters confront and question their actions, such as Samir's introspection about his relationships post-accusation of sexual assault. (08:00)

Socioeconomic Themes and Representation

• Kiana Fitzgerald pointed out the show's depiction of privilege and "stealth wealth," noting that the characters live rent-free, implying financial stability that might not resonate with all viewers. She questioned the authenticity of friendships when one member, like Samir, benefits from others' generosity without apparent strain. (12:06)

• The discussion touched on the lack of socioeconomic diversity, with characters appearing to be from upper-middle-class backgrounds. This absence of struggle could alienate some viewers who seek more relatable hardships in adulthood.

Handling of Sensitive Topics

• The show addresses issues like sexual assault and abortion. Aisha Harris praised the episode handling a teenager seeking an abortion, noting it was "handled so well" and effectively merged different tonal elements. (18:32)

• Conversely, some character interactions and storylines were seen as inconsistent or abrupt, such as the neighborhood stabber subplot, which seemed to blend various comedic and dramatic elements in a way that felt unearned to some hosts. (17:46)

Character Dynamics and Development

• Anton’s interactions, especially his flirtation with a neighborhood stabber, were highlighted as both humorous and concerning. This plotline was seen as an attempt to introduce drama but may have lacked proper development. (16:34)

• Paul Baker's character was well-received for his fluidity and charm, making him a favorite among the hosts. His storyline involving visa issues added timely political undertones to the show. (15:26)

• The chemistry among the cast was initially questioned but gradually improved, with hosts acknowledging that the characters found their "groove" as the season progressed. (07:48)

Production and Casting Choices

• Kiana Fitzgerald appreciated the inclusion of relatively unknown actors, citing Owen Thiel as the most recognizable due to his podcast. The decision to cast less famous actors was seen as a risk that ultimately paid off in terms of natural chemistry among the cast. (19:39)

• The show's marketing strategy, including uploading the first episode in segmented parts on TikTok, aimed to engage the Gen Z audience effectively. This approach reflects a shift in how traditional sitcoms are promoted and consumed in the digital age. (12:03)

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The episode concluded with the hosts expressing a generally positive outlook on "Adults," despite initial reservations about its cringy moments and inconsistent tone. They acknowledged the show's attempt to blend humor with serious themes and appreciated its reflection of Gen Z's unique challenges and perspectives.

• Aisha Harris: Emphasized the importance of intergenerational conversations to better understand and critique contemporary media. (21:27)

• Candice Lim: Highlighted the show's ability to connect with viewers once they acclimated to its rhythm and humor. (20:47)

• Kiana Fitzgerald: Remained cautiously optimistic, noting that while the show has potential, its success hinges on character development and maintaining authentic relationships among the cast. (20:40)

Overall, "Adults" is portrayed as a sitcom that attempts to capture the essence of modern adulthood among Gen Z, balancing humor with real-life issues. While it may not resonate with everyone initially, its evolving dynamics and relatable themes offer a promising addition to the friendship sitcom genre.

Notable Quotes:

• Candice Lim (07:01): "I just had to cover my face and not look at what was going on. I was like, I can't do this."

• Kiana Fitzgerald (12:06): "I think this show is about not feeling bad for a friend group who I think are pretty much variations of the exact same person and ethos."

• Aisha Harris (18:32): "I thought that was just handled so well. That's the best of them."

For more insights and discussions on the latest in pop culture, tune into Pop Culture Happy Hour on NPR.