As I sat down to write my tribute to Schitt’s Creek, my mind was immediately flooded with innumerable quotable and memorable moments that I considered using to as a hook to draw readers in. I could pull an, “Are you ready? Ah, ah,” from Alexis. Or craft an unusually inflected anecdote from Moira, something along the lines of crying like a “bebè” becaue this series is coming from an end.
Perhaps a snarky aside from David, a misguided nugget of wisdom from Johnny or a hilariously mumbled comment from Stevie. However, I could not land on one moment from this series to kick things off: there are just too many to choose from. Following the Rose family’s journey from riches to rags these past few years has been such a joy for me and millions of others.
Oddly enough, initially I wasn’t sure if it was a show for me. Yes, the Roses were hilarious in their own right from the get-go, but it didn’t seem like I would have much in common with these elitist characters and their superficial, narcissistic tendencies. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how emotionally invested I became in all of their journeys.
Seeing Alexis turn from snobby socialite to a hard-working, uniquely caring individual was a beautiful arc to follow; the depth that her character gained was one of my favorite parts of the entire series. Watching David change from an insecure snob to a confident, self-sufficient man was refreshing and inspiring. The progress Moira made as an artist and parent was profound. Johnny building a close bond with his family was heartwarming and relatable. They all grew significantly, both individually and together, while retaining that initial cringe-worthy charm that made me laugh in the first episode.
If I were to pick a theme that stuck out the most to me from Schitt’s Creek, it would have to be acceptance. The Rose family built connections with a wonderful ensemble cast, overcoming what many of us would consider to be insurmountable social barriers. Consider how Stevie and David became fast friends, even though on paper they would have never seemed to mesh well together. Or how Ted sees the very best in Alexis, even when she can’t see it herself.
Furthermore, as a bi man I thought Schitt’s Creek showcased LGBTI acceptance in a genuine, special way. While David identifies as pansexual in the show, his coming-out scene with Stevie gave us an incredibly simple, genuine, and hilarious explanation of bisexuality. It wasn’t over the top or emotional; just a conversation between two friends while selecting wine. A conversation that could realistically be had in any town at any time.
I also appreciated how they gave Moira and Johnny the opportunity to share their own perspectives on their son’s journey. Moira was — no surprise — a staunch supporter, but I thought the way they captured Johnny’s viewpoint offered a rarely heard sentiment of parents of LGBTI children, one that my parents have even echoed.
It was harder for Johnny to accept simply because he didn’t want his son to have a more difficult life; it’s not mean-spirited, but a legitimate universal concern of all parents. There are certainly several ways for viewers to interpret that, but I thought it was a great perspective to bring to the table. And of course, wonderful to see his total acceptance of David at the end of the episode as well.
It was also quite a privilege to see the relationship between David and Patrick unfold. Patrick’s storyline highlighted how difficult the coming out journey can be. It’s not one moment, but an ongoing process. David giving him the time and space to come out on his terms was truly beautiful. Then of course, we have the development of their romance; who didn’t tear up as Patrick serenaded David with his rendition of “Simply the Best”, or cringe laugh at David’s dancing to the same song later in the series?
I really connected with David’s struggle with accepting the love Patrick had to give as well, as I’m sure many LGBTI individuals did. For some of us, it can be hard to feel like you deserve the love being given or to question where it is coming from. Seeing David work through these issues and finally take that leap was not just a beautiful television moment, but one that fundamentally impacted my perspective on love and relationships as well.
While I am sad this show is ending (definitely going to be a disgruntled pelican for at least six months after the finale), I know its many quotes and heartwarming moments will stick with me for years to come.
The Rose’s have proven that no one is too far gone to better themselves, as long as they find the acceptance and encouragement to get them there. So long and thank you, Schitt’s Creek. It has been an iconic run, to say the least.
You can also find our entry of this show in our new Bi Media section.