Black fashion girlies, this show is for us! Survival of the Thickest

Finally, a fashion-related tv show with a black lead. Don’t get me wrong, I love Sex in the City for its realism, and Emily in Paris for its lighthearted fun, but they always excluded black people, Specifically black women, and even more specifically plus-size black women. It was refreshing to hear about a new fashion tv show that featured a black fashion stylist. We never get a fashion stylist perspective on television, aside from Styling Hollywood by Jason Bolden, which did not get renewed for season 2.

The lead actor of Survival of the Thickest is played by The Circle's finest actor and comedian, Michelle Buteau. Michelle gives us wit, quirk, and inspiring real moments. Her character is learning to maneuver through life after a big breakup while still trying to get her foot through the fashion industry. A big aspect of the show that I loved was she is 38 years old. Hollywood makes it seem like once you hit 30, you are a ticking time bomb. But in reality, nothing magically happens. You get older, but that does not mean your creativity stops. I imagine you keep growing, learning, and filled with more wisdom… Also, Tv shows nowadays love to showcase Gen Z as the only ones with fresh ideas and insight. Which is not true.

Another aspect of the show I love is her straight platonic male best friend, played by actor and comedian, Tone Bell. A f*ck boy turned lover boy. The show gives a glimpse of black love. It also teaches us lessons on healing and mending past mistakes. Of course I could not forget the lead’s close friend played by actress and producer, Tasha Smith. I think we all got excited when we saw Tasha make an appearance. It is always good to see an actress who made a name for herself after two decades on a new show. Tasha’s character is a single divorced woman. We see her go through therapy and learn more about her true sexuality. Therapy seems like a new concept in the black community, so I love it when shows shine a light on it.

Survival of the Thickest is so good and a must-see. I am excited to see where it goes from here! I am dying for a new comfort show since Insecure is gone.

Let me know your thoughts on Survival of the Thickest! Have you watched it? If you have watched it, what did you like or dislike about it? Leave a comment below!