Who says that television drains the social fabric of America?
Whether it be a barber, co-worker, or relative, I've found television to be a great way to get to know other people. Not everyone attends a church, or roots for a ball club, or reads for pleasure. But pretty much EVERYONE has a favorite television show. Even if they only watch it irregularly, it gives some basis for conversation and shares a touch of their personality. Comedy? Drama? Sci-fi?
"So have you seen anything good on T.V. lately?" It's harmless, easy to answer no... whether it's because you don't watch T.V., whether you dislike everything you see on the tube, or whether you're simply having a bad day for remembering anything older than ten minutes ago. It's a legitimate question about the interests of others. And far more often than not, I get an answer that leads me to a new adventure in programming.
In the last year, it's how I've been introduced to CSI Miami, Big Bang Theory, Parenthood, Modern Family, and How I Met Your Mother. Whether or not the show grows on me, I learn at least a little about it. Enough to fuel future conversations with the fan who named it... the things I liked about it, and a genuine expression of thanks for leading me to it. Plus, someone I meet in the future might get a recommendation from me, setting up a whole new branch of conversation.
DVR and the like have made this easier still. Even the busiest people are usually able to find time to stay true to at least one show.
Tonight I'm debuting The Closer starring Kyra Sedgwick, the fave of my newest co-worker Jennifer. I have a meet-and-greet with her tomorrow afternoon, and as luck would have it I recorded the season opener. It's win-win all the way around!
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