Michael Schneider, executive editor of Variety, has called on the entertainment industry to address the growing political tensions in the United States, particularly under President Donald Trump. He argues that television must reflect the current realities of the nation’s political climate, stating that the industry cannot ‘sugarcoat’ the situation. Schneider’s call comes ahead of the 2025 Emmy Awards, where the focus is expected to be on how shows can portray the nation’s ‘plunge into fascism.’
Schneider’s arguments are framed within a broader context of concerns about democratic erosion, surveillance, and the role of media in holding power accountable. He references recent discussions about the need for television to depict authoritarian rule and the impact of such governance on society. In particular, he highlights the importance of shows like ‘Andor’ and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ as examples of how television can realistically portray the effects of authoritarianism, including the suppression of dissent and the control of population movements.
He also draws attention to the role of media in shaping public understanding of political events, emphasizing that the current climate is not ‘normal’ and that television should reflect this reality. Schneider calls for creators to embed these complex issues into their storytelling, especially in drama formats, suggesting that such narratives could help inform viewers about the challenges facing the nation. His remarks come amid a growing concern that the entertainment industry is not doing enough to critique and reflect on the political direction of the country, particularly with the current administration.
Additionally, Schneider notes the importance of addressing issues such as immigration, civil liberties, and the preservation of democratic institutions through television. He calls for a more critical and reflective approach to storytelling, arguing that the entertainment industry has a responsibility to highlight these pressing issues. Overall, Schneider’s remarks underscore the role of television as a medium for shaping and reflecting public consciousness about the nation’s political trajectory.