Netflix's 'Cringiest' Show XO, Kitty Returns for Season 3 - Why I'm Hooked
When I opened Netflix this morning and saw that my comfort coming-of-age series XO, Kitty was back for a third season, I literally gasped with excitement. I know thousands of viewers have likely scrolled past this show since its 2023 debut or abandoned it during the first episode, dismissing it as just another cheesy teen fest scraping the bottom of the barrel.
I was once just like those skeptics. The series follows Kitty Song-Covey (played by Anna Cathcart), the youngest sister of Lara Jean Song-Covey (Lana Condor), who many will recognize as the protagonist of Netflix's hit romantic comedy trilogy To All The Boys I've Loved Before.
A Surprising Spin-Off with Unexpected Depth
As a teen girl in the 2010s, I was the perfect target audience for the original trilogy based on Jenny Han's books. I vividly remember how the sweet romance between Lara Jean and Peter Kavinsky (Noah Centineo) captured our generation, quickly amassing over 80 million viewers and cementing itself in rom-com history.
When XO, Kitty first arrived, I felt a small stirring of interest - if only to give it a try for old times' sake. But I certainly wasn't expecting anything substantial to come from it. In this spin-off, we follow Kitty's quest for love, home, and belonging as she travels to Seoul to attend her late mother's alma mater (known as KISS) and reunite with her long-distance boyfriend Dae, whom she met in the final installment of the TATBILB trilogy.
Embracing the Cringe with Unexpected Humor
Let me be perfectly honest: the many critics, although sometimes harsh, might have a small point. This show definitely leans into slightly cringe-worthy, slightly ridiculous moments, whether through on-the-nose Gen Z dialogue or over-the-top storylines and scenes.
However, considering how poorly many modern shows portray younger generations, this series offers a surprisingly humorous edge I never anticipated, particularly thanks to lead star Anna Cathcart's unexpected comedic timing. At times, you simply can't help but laugh at just how ludicrous the situations become.
Surprising Layers Beneath the Surface
Unlike other shows that have put me off for life with poor writing and acting, XO, Kitty has almost inexplicably charmed me. Once you give it a genuine chance, you discover surprising layers that grapple with grief, the horrors of unrequited love, found family, and the messy ordeal of trying to figure yourself out.
There's a reason season two debuted at number one with 14.2 million viewers in its first week alone last year. As someone who always appreciates LGBTQ+ representation on screen, this show delivers in abundance - and not just in supporting roles.
Breaking New Ground in Representation
When I saw the direction of the plot during the second season, I genuinely couldn't believe Netflix had committed so strongly to a queer storyline - especially since this franchise has traditionally catered to a straight audience. The original films featured only one notable gay character, Lucas, as a side character.
But as you'll discover, this show contains numerous pleasant surprises if you're willing to look beneath the surface. It's certainly not perfect, but it provides genuinely entertaining viewing.
Anticipating Season Three's Developments
Heading into season three, my mind races with questions: Will Kitty and Min Ho finally get together? Will Kitty uncover truths about her past? Can she and Yuri salvage a friendship from the ashes?
Much like Lara Jean, who will make a cameo appearance in the third season, I feel oddly protective of Kitty and her destiny now - as though she's a younger sister I've taken under my wing. I'm genuinely rooting for her happiness.
Finding Your Next Guilty Pleasure
I understand this show won't be everyone's cup of tea. If you're truly averse to any form of cheesy coming-of-age tales, this might not be for you. But if, like me, you found yourself unexpectedly hooked to YA shows like Heartstopper or The Summer I Turned Pretty (also based on Jenny Han's books), or if you're simply feeling nostalgic for your teen days watching To All the Boys I've Loved Before, then you never know - this could become your next guilty pleasure.
As for my weekend plans, you'll find me with snacks in hand, bingeing the latest season of XO, Kitty with absolutely no regrets. The series offers that perfect blend of cringe and charm that keeps viewers coming back for more.
