Column: Women grapple with profound loneliness in a trio of new TV shows

Published: Friday, November 14, 2025 at 3:40 pm

TV Series Spotlight: Exploring the Loneliness Epidemic

Recent television series are increasingly focusing on a pervasive societal issue: loneliness, particularly among women. Several new shows are delving into this complex theme, offering diverse perspectives on the experience of isolation in the modern world.

HBO's "I Love LA" portrays a group of young adults striving for social media fame and financial success. Despite their outward exuberance, the characters grapple with internal misery and a lack of genuine connection. The series highlights the hollow nature of their relationships, potentially reflecting the pressures of a world that prioritizes relentless ambition over meaningful bonds.

Apple's "Pluribus," a series from Vince Gilligan, presents a starkly different narrative. The show follows a middle-aged romance author, Carol, who finds herself isolated in a world where everyone around her has undergone a personality shift. Carol, immune to this change, is left to navigate a reality filled with robotic, overly-pleasant individuals, intensifying her feelings of rage and isolation.

Netflix's "Nobody Wants This," a romantic comedy, also explores loneliness. The series features a woman named Morgan, who uses sarcasm to mask her insecurities. Her desperation for connection is evident, leading her into an ethically questionable relationship.

These shows, along with the broader trend of competition-based reality shows, suggest a societal trade-off between financial success and genuine companionship. The article also touches on the potential for artificial intelligence to fill the void, referencing the film "Her." However, it questions the authenticity of such simulated connections.

The article concludes by suggesting a more straightforward solution: actively engaging with others. It cites examples of community organizing in response to immigration raids and the benefits of joining clubs and organizations, as explored by social scientist Robert Putnam. Putnam argues that these connections are crucial for individual well-being and the health of democracy.

BNN's Perspective: The prevalence of loneliness depicted in these shows is concerning. While the causes are complex, the emphasis on superficial connections and the pursuit of individual success over community engagement seems to be a contributing factor. Finding a balance between personal ambition and fostering meaningful relationships is crucial for individual and societal well-being.

Keywords: loneliness, television, series, women, I Love LA, Pluribus, Nobody Wants This, relationships, community, social connection, isolation, HBO, Apple, Netflix, society, mental health

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