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Although they have not made it an especially big deal, some conservative Americans object to the Fox program “Glee” because it is a politically correct extravaganza that often deals with sexuality among teenagers. This season, actress Gwyneth Paltrow provided some sizzle that awakened any parent in the room, I’ll tell you that.
But there is an important social upside to the show. Gays, physically challenged people and overweight kids are all put in a positive light compatible with the show’s liberal tone. An occasional verbal shot at Fox News solidifies “Glee’s” PC presentation.
The other day on Long Island, a live “Glee” concert troupe sold out two shows at the Nassau Coliseum, grossing more than $2 million in the process. The crowd was predominately white, middle-class teens, many accompanied by their parents who seemed to enjoy the presentation. This was a rather staid event compared to Lady Gaga or your standard-issue rapper. No profanity, songs with lyrics you could understand, and dancing without much groin activity.
In other words, the “Glee” concert was clean-cut, and the young people loved it.
The trendiness that “Glee” embraces on the tube doesn’t much bother me, and I like the fact that chubby performers are often front and center. Also, the kid in the wheelchair is a great singer, and his presence sends an anti-stigma message, as well. So there is much good in the program.
At this point in America, young people are being barraged with tattooed vulgarians who dominate the rock and reality-show worlds. Kids see antisocial behavior, hear poor grammar and understand that crude conduct is often rewarded with fame and fortune. You don’t have to go to the “Jersey Shore.” Just show up at your local beach or pool this summer, and you’ll see young boys and girls with body ink and piercings all over the place. Do these children not have parents? Are there no mirrors in their homes?
The “Glee” crew is basically clean-cut, and do you know what? It’s refreshing. That’s right, it’s nice to see some young Americans on stage who don’t look like living zombies or Charles Manson. I’m not asking for a comeback from The Kingston Trio or an Up with People convention. I’m just promoting equal time as far as grooming is concerned.
Also, the PC stuff on “Glee” is in context. It doesn’t slap you in the face like the faux trendy garbage you see on the nightly news, for example.
In person, the “Glee” kids perform well and seem pleased to be entertaining people. Their songs are upbeat, the primary message is “don’t hurt anybody,” and the performers give you your money’s worth.
Yeah, it’s positively gleeful. And I’m happy about it.•
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O’Reilly is host of “The O’Reilly Factor” on Fox News. Send comments on this column to ibjedit@ibj.com.
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