The second season of Glow focuses on the trials and tribulations of the Glamorous Ladies of Wrestling and their desire to keep their show on air while also delving into the relationships of the performers and their friends and family members.
While the premise of Glow might sound frivolous it is very much a commentary on gender politics in the 80’s, particularly with regards to the entertainment industry.
While Ruth (Alison Brie) tries to forge her way as a director, despite Sam’s (Marc Maron) misgivings, Debbie (Betty Gilpin) forces her way into the production team and Carmen (Britney Wade) fights for recognition as a fight choreographer. There is one particular Weinstein-esque incident that really highlights the struggle of women in the entertainment industry and the internalised misogyny that makes it so hard to triumph over the patriarchy.
There are also themes around race and exploitation and Tamme’s (Kia Stevens) interactions with her son are handled with real tenderness. Learning more about Tamme and her hopes and dreams catapulted her right up to being one of my favourite characters.
Underlying everything is the power of female friendship and the kind of sisterhood that is created when a group of women must work together to succeed. It’s not all smooth sailing and rift between Ruth and Debbie is still a long way from being fully healed.
In this season Brie and Gilpin both shine, adding depth and humanity to their characters. Maron continues to find a great balance between making equally loathsome and charming and Chris Lowell is a riot as the guileless Bash Howard.
It’s not all serious social commentary though. The secondary characters continue to be hilarious and there are some laugh out loud funny moments both inside and outside the ring.
The only bum note for me was the slightly odd romance that develops right at the end of the season. I won’t spoil it for anyone who has not watched it but if you have, you’ll know what I mean.
A great follow-up to the first season and I have dived straight into the second.
abbiosbiston 
This was recommended by John Rieber too. But I couldn’t get enthusiastic about the wrestling element.
Best wishes, Pete.
There’s actually very little wrestling.
That’s what John said. 🙂
I’ve heard so many great things about this show. I hope I have time to give it a go soon!
It’s absolutely worth it!