The release of Netflix's original series 13 Reasons Why has sparked a heated debate about how sensitive topics are shown on television and film.
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For those unfamiliar with the series, Kate Walsh plays Olivia Baker, the grieving mother of Hannah, a girl who kills herself and leaves behind 13 cassette tapes explaining why she did it.
Because of the sensitive topics of suicide, rape, and assault covered in the show, viewers were left divided on its underlying message.
Walsh recently defended the show against the backlash it's been receiving.
She spoke candidly about why she supports the director's decision to display graphic images of Hannah's suicide and the multiple rape scenes.
I think that anything that’s at all kept secret is inextricably intertwined with shame and secrecy, (and) should be outed. I can’t speak for Brian [Yorkey, the creator], but I know that it was important for us to be as honest as we could.
Part of the problem is not talking about it and not seeing it, and not seeing what really happens, and that it’s this mysterious kind of thing that’s never spoken about or never seen. And we just shove it under the rug, and nobody talks about it, and we just hope that it doesn’t happen to them or their children or friends or family.
As for the mixed reviews, here's where the audience differs:
There are those who praise the series for highlighting issues that many people struggle with every day:
i truly agree with this #13ReasonsWhy
honestly they need to show #13ReasonsWhy in all high schools.
#13ReasonsWhy reminds me of my high school experience and the negative feelings that come with it, this show is very moving and empowering 😰
There were also viewers who believe the series romanticizes and glorifies these acts, and ultimately has a negative effect on younger viewers:
#13ReasonsWhy is about the weaponization of guilt and suicide. It's about a girl who kills herself to make a point. It glorifies it. Badly.
#13ReasonsWhy is so unbelievably irresponsible, and so so disappointing. Classic worst type of romanticising suicide & poor mental health.
I don't agree with the graphic showing of Hannah's suicide sometimes ignorance saves lives! #13ReasonsWhy #MHM