Shonda Rhimes’ “Scandal” Still Hits in 2024: How the TV Series Mirrors Today’s Political Landscape

Shonda Rhimes debuted her “Scandal” series in 2012, and it quickly became a fan favorite, drawing in an audience with jaw-dropping plot twists and fast-paced drama. The show was centered around the complex world of politics and “fixer” Olivia Pope, played by actress Kerry Washington, and her secret lover, President Fitzgerald Grant, played by Tony Goldwyn. As we approach the upcoming presidential election, “Scandal” has returned to the spotlight, with Washington and Goldwyn taking moments to highlight VP Kamala Harris’ campaign.

“Scandal” was not just another series about political drama. It was a show that created a new space in television for several reasons. One of the major aspects of “Scandal” was its diverse cast, especially with Washington snagging the role as Olivia Pope, which marked the first time an African-American woman led a network drama in roughly four decades. On top of that, Pope was a fiery character who was strong and intelligent, bringing in a new wave of female-led roles.

Additionally, Rhimes crafted the series in such a complex way that each character had a compelling storyline to capture the audience’s attention. The show’s unpredictable nature, with shocking plot twists in every episode, “Scandal” left viewers on the edge of their seats. Not to mention, the shows often reflected the real world and mimicked political events and drama. From election rigging to infidelity in the White House, “Scandal” tapped into society’s fascination with getting the inside scoop of what goes on in Washington, D.C.

The Original 🎥 #WhenWeFightWeWin #DNC2024 pic.twitter.com/3UNTUHgAZj

— kerry washington (@kerrywashington) August 23, 2024

But how does the show tie into this year’s election? The answer is simple. As we enter another election year, the ” Scandal ” themes are more relevant than ever. The series explores the dark side of politics, such as public decision-making, media control, and voter manipulation, all issues that occur today. “Scandal” highlighted the media’s role in shaping public perception and affecting the election’s outcome. In addition, Pope’s complex relationship with power and morals mirrors the real-world challenges that our leaders face. This also reflects the ethical battle voters have within themselves when selecting a presidential candidate.

Nonetheless, “Scandal” was more than an entertaining series. The show was a cultural moment that sparked conversations every Thursday night. Its impact on television and the themes that mimic our political landscape make the series a powerful piece even years after its exit.