TL;DR
- XO, Kitty’s season 3 sidelines Kitty and Yuri’s love story.
- The show fails to explore queer feelings meaningfully.
- Yuri’s character development is strong but isolated.
- Critics highlight the show’s problematic writing choices.
- Overall, season 3 disappoints in LGBTQ representation.
In the whirlwind of teen romance that is the To All the Boys franchise, we were introduced to Kitty Song Covey, the youngest sister who stole our hearts with her fiery spirit and unexpected bisexual awakening. But hold onto your heart-shaped sunglasses, because season 3 of XO, Kitty seems to have taken a detour into a land of missed opportunities and questionable writing decisions.
Let’s rewind a bit. In the previous seasons, Kitty (played by Anna Cathart) found herself entangled in a love story with Yuri (Gia Kim), her former enemy turned best friend. Their chemistry was palpable, and fans were ready for a deep dive into their relationship. But instead, we got a season that treats their love like a fever dream, as if it never really mattered. I mean, come on, why are we still stuck in the land of heteronormative romance?
In season 2, Kitty penned a heartfelt goodbye letter to Yuri, a letter that was supposed to encapsulate her feelings. But surprise, surprise! The letter gets out, causing all sorts of drama. Yet, when season 3 rolls around, it’s like that moment never happened. Kitty and Yuri are just friends now, and their potential as a couple is tossed aside like last season’s fashion. Why do male characters like Peter Kavinsky get the luxury of exploring their feelings while Kitty and Yuri are left in the dust?
What’s even more frustrating is that Yuri’s character is going through some serious growth. She’s dealing with a lawsuit that has turned her life upside down, forcing her to fend for herself. But instead of leaning on Kitty for support, they’re kept apart, leaving Yuri to navigate her struggles alone. It’s a missed chance for both characters to explore their bond during a pivotal moment in their lives.
And let’s talk about representation. XO, Kitty was initially celebrated for its diverse cast and the inclusion of LGBTQ characters. With five LGBT API characters among its ensemble, it felt like a step in the right direction for K-Dramas, which have historically been slow to embrace queer narratives. But now, it seems like the writers are more interested in maintaining the status quo of traditional romance than pushing boundaries.
As we watch Kitty’s journey unfold, it’s clear that the writers have chosen to prioritize quantity over quality. The introduction of new characters like Marius, who embodies the same problematic tropes as previous characters, only adds to the disappointment. It’s as if the show is content to recycle old storylines instead of giving us the rich, nuanced LGBTQ storytelling we crave.
In a world where representation matters more than ever, XO, Kitty season 3 feels like a letdown. The actors deserve better, the audience deserves better, and most importantly, fans who long to see themselves represented on screen deserve better. So, while we wait for the next season, let’s hope the writers wake up and realize that queer love is just as valid and worthy of exploration as any other.
Catch XO, Kitty season 3 now streaming on Netflix, but prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions that might leave you more frustrated than fulfilled.
https://www.netflix.com/watch/81324724?source=35