Not Dead Yet Season 1 Episode 6 Review: Not Ready to Share Yet
Not Dead Yet Season 1 Episode 6, “Not Ready to Share Yet” shows us that platonic relationships can be just as complicated as romantic ones, and that lessons in being a better friend can always help.
While we’ve taken the unique dynamics between Nell, Sam, and Lexi as they come, we haven’t really hinted on the undertones of jealousy and awkwardness there since the pilot, instead favoring the chance to see Nell and Sam grow close again.
It’s refreshing to see a show where these relationships take center stage just as much if not more than those between main characters and their love interests. It’s also real to see them play out with issues much like those of their counterparts.
We come mostly from Nell’s perspective, and understand her lingering resentment best – both in that her bestie chose to move on with someone they both once disliked and that Lexi now being the boss has earned Sam some favoritism.
But that favoritism is a doubled-edged sword, and we also see Lexi freely unloading tasks on Sam. This is partially a commentary on the unique issues of friendships at work, but it also says a lot about the two of them personally.
My biggest hangup in this episode is that the time allotted to Lexi overworking Sam and berating her for the slightest flaw outweighs the time trying to make her more sympathetic by highlighting the fact her father both puts very similar pressures on her and neglects her as his daughter.
No matter what the overly nice ghost of the week (and her puppet) might say, you should call out those who treat others badly. I don’t think Lexi deserved Sam retaliating and ending their friendship, but sad story or not, she should be told her behavior isn’t okay.
Still, ghost lady comes through with a story of how her puppet helped her overcome her stutter, and Nell comes through for both Lexi and Sam, helping them both deal with their issues and hopefully instilling a truce between the three that can last.
The lesson is again more for her than anyone else: she initially encourages Sam’s anger toward Lexi not so much because of how valid it is but because it will help her get her old BFF back full time. Realizing something like that means it can be better to default to kindness after all.
Most shows don’t give enough credit to just how important and close friendships can be. Moving on, coming back, renewing and repairing – they can all be a part of that. Plus, if you really need to be honest with the ones you love, a festival that celebrates wine is a great start.
Other Notes
- Speaking of platonic character dynamics, I love the one between Cricket and Edward. I’m more mixed on them using her newly widowed status to get sympathy gifts from strangers, but eh, she’s earned it.
- Note to self: when attending a food and wine festival, consume in that order. Otherwise, shenanigans ensure.
- Putting the pig puppet in the freezer seems a bit mean, especially after that ghost’s lovely speech.
What did you think of this episode of Not Dead Yet? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Not Dead Yet airs Wednesdays at 9:30/8:30c on ABC,
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Caitlin Wyneken
Caitlin is an elder millennial with an only slightly unhealthy dedication to a random selection of TV shows, from PBS Masterpiece dramas to some of the less popular series on popular networks. Outside of screen time, she's dedicated to the public sector and worthy nonprofits, working to make a difference in the world outside of media.