Los Angeles, California – Netflix’s latest romantic-comedy series, “Nobody Wants This,” has faced criticism for its portrayal of Jewish characters. The series, which follows the romance between a rabbi played by Adam Brody and a sex podcaster portrayed by Kristen Bell, sparked controversy over what some viewers view as “stereotypical” Jewish characters. Writer and series creator Erin Foster explained in an interview with the Los Angeles Times that the show aims to showcase Jewish culture in a positive light, as she herself converted to Judaism after meeting her husband.
Shortly after the series premiered on September 26, Glamour senior West Coast editor Jessica Radloff penned an essay criticizing “Nobody Wants This” for perpetuating Jewish stereotypes. Radloff highlighted the portrayals of Jewish characters as controlling, marriage-focused individuals who alienate those who do not share similar aspirations. She also took issue with a scene in the pilot episode where Bell’s character is referred to as a “shiksa” by Brody’s character’s mother, a term often viewed as derogatory towards non-Jewish women.
Radloff’s concerns were echoed by Time magazine, which criticized the series for its negative depiction of Jewish women, labeling them as nagging, harpy-like figures. Responding to these criticisms, Foster defended the show’s portrayal of Jewish characters, pointing out that the lead role is a young, cool rabbi who defies traditional stereotypes by smoking weed. She emphasized her intention to shine a positive light on Jewish culture based on her own positive experiences and interactions within the community, aiming to blend fun and educational elements in the storyline.
Despite the backlash, Foster remains committed to her goal of presenting a fresh perspective on Jewish culture in “Nobody Wants This.” The series is now available for streaming on Netflix, inviting viewers to explore the complexities of love and cultural identity in a modern setting. For those interested in delving further into Foster’s thoughts on the show, the full interview with the creator can be found on the Los Angeles Times’ website.