Introduction
This Is Us is a beloved television show that has captured the hearts of many due to its heart-warming storylines, complex characters, and non-linear narrative structure. However, with multiple seasons and a growing number of episodes, it can be challenging to keep track of the total number of episodes and where the show currently stands. In this comprehensive guide, we will break down every season, episode count, narrative structure, and the impact of Covid-19 on the show. Whether you’re a returning fan or interested in binge-watching this popular drama, this guide is a must-read.
A straightforward article titled “How many episodes are in This Is Us?”
To start, let’s break down the episode count season by season. The show has completed five seasons, and the total number of episodes are as follows:
– Season 1: 18 episodes
– Season 2: 18 episodes
– Season 3: 18 episodes
– Season 4: 18 episodes
– Season 5: 16 episodes
Adding all of these together, This Is Us currently has a total of 88 episodes. It is important to note that this number may change as the final season airs and additional episodes are added.
“A guide to binge-watching This Is Us: understanding the episode count”
This Is Us is known for its non-linear narrative structure, which means that episodes are not necessarily numbered linearly. Instead, the show jumps back and forth between various timelines and characters, creating a unique viewing experience. However, for new viewers who are looking to binge-watch the show, this can be quite confusing.
Our best advice for new viewers is to start with Season 1, Episode 1, and watch the episodes in the order they were released. If you’re having trouble following the narrative, there are several online guides that can help you keep track of where you are in each timeline.
It’s also important to note that not every episode is critical to the main narrative. While each episode provides valuable insight into the character’s lives, there are certain episodes that are necessary to understand the overarching story. These critical episodes include the pilot episode, “The Big Three,” “The Best Washing Machine in the World,” “Super Bowl Sunday,” and “After the Fire.”
“This Is Us: long vs. short seasons”
This Is Us has always had a consistent episode count per season, except for the current season, which has a slightly shorter episode count. Longer seasons, like those of procedural dramas, can sometimes lead to filler episodes and stretched out storylines. However, for a show like This Is Us, where each episode is critical to the narrative, longer seasons may not be a drawback.
Compared to similar shows like Grey’s Anatomy or The Walking Dead, which have over 300 episodes each, This Is Us has remained focused on its central narrative, providing viewers with a consistently high-quality viewing experience.
The production schedule of This Is Us is also unique. The showrunners have always had a clear plan for the overall narrative and have used a multi-timeline structure to drive the story forward. Each season builds upon the previous one, advancing the story until it reaches its natural conclusion.
“A season-by-season breakdown of This Is Us”
In Season 1, viewers were introduced to the Pearson family and their unique struggles, including the death of their patriarch, Jack. This season centered around themes of legacy, family, and resilience as the Pearson children navigated adulthood.
Season 2 further developed the characters and focused on themes of addiction, fatherhood, and adoption. The season ended with a shocking revelation about Jack’s death, setting the stage for the rest of the series.
Season 3 delved deeper into family secrets and relationships, including Randall’s discovery about his birth mother and Kate’s struggles with IVF. This season also introduced new characters, including Beth’s cousin Zoe and Deja, the foster child of Randall.
Season 4 tackled topics such as racism, mental health, and political divisions. This season also featured several guest stars, including Jennifer Morrison and Omar Epps. In addition, the season explored the origins of Rebecca and Jack’s relationship and provided viewers with more insight into their history.
Season 5 focused on the Pearson family during the Covid-19 pandemic, exploring the impact of the virus on their relationships and lives. This season also included several milestone events, including Kevin’s engagement and the birth of Rebecca’s grandchild.
“The impact of Covid-19 on the production of This Is Us”
The Covid-19 pandemic had a significant impact on television production across the board, with many shows forced to halt production or delay their seasons. This Is Us was no exception, with its season 5 finale being cut short due to Covid-19 restrictions.
However, the showrunners and writers were able to adapt to the situation and make significant changes to the storyline to account for the pandemic. This resulted in a unique season that explored the realities of Covid-19 in a way that felt authentic and relatable.
“Why the shorter final season of This Is Us is the right decision”
In May 2021, the creators of This Is Us announced that the upcoming sixth season would be the show’s final season and that it would have a shorter episode count. This decision was made for several reasons, including the desire to end the show on a high note and to avoid dragging out the narrative or potentially diluting its impact.
Considering the unique non-linear structure of the show, a shorter final season may actually be a benefit. This will allow the creators to focus on the key storylines and provide a satisfying conclusion to each character’s arc.
“This Is Us: the way episodes are numbered explained”
As previously mentioned, This Is Us does not follow a traditional, linear episode numbering system. Instead, each episode is identified by a title that provides insight into its content and where it fits within the overall narrative. For example, Season 4, Episode 9, is titled “So Long, Marianne,” which is a reference to a Leonard Cohen song and provides insight into the episode’s themes.
While this may be confusing for viewers who are used to traditional episode numbering systems, it is a deliberate choice made by the creators to enhance the viewing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, This Is Us has become a cultural phenomenon thanks to its engaging narrative, memorable characters, and unique storytelling structure. However, with multiple seasons and episode counts, it can be challenging to keep track of where we stand.
This comprehensive guide breaks down every season, episode count, narrative structure, and the impact of Covid-19 on the show. Whether you’re a returning fan or interested in binge-watching this popular drama, this guide provides valuable insights that will enhance your viewing experience. Don’t forget to share this article with other fans who may be confused and help spread the love for This Is Us.