Introduction
Superstore is a popular TV series that has been on the air since 2015. However, the show suffered a major hit when one of its most prominent actors, America Ferrera, announced her departure in February 2020. Ferrera had been a fixture on the show, starring as the lead character Amy for five years. Her decision to leave the show has sparked discussions among fans, critics, and industry insiders. In this article, we aim to explore Ferrera’s departure from Superstore and what it means for its viewers, cast, and the wider TV industry.
America Ferrera’s Career Trajectory Before and After Superstore
Before joining Superstore, Ferrera had already made a name for herself as an actress, producer, and director. She is best known for her role in the hit TV series Ugly Betty, which earned her an Emmy, Golden Globe, and Screen Actors Guild Awards. Ferrera has also appeared in several critically acclaimed films, including Real Women Have Curves, The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, and End of Watch.
In 2015, Ferrera joined the cast of Superstore, a sitcom set in a big-box store. She played Amy, a working-class Latina mother trying to make ends meet. Ferrera’s presence on the show helped to break down stereotypes about Latinx people, as she portrayed a relatable and likable character who faced real-life struggles. Her departure from the show has raised questions about why she decided to leave a role that had helped to cement her status as a talented and respected actress.
Superstore’s Tackling of Social Issues Through Ferrera’s Character
One of the key aspects of Superstore’s success was its ability to tackle social issues in a humorous and insightful way. Ferrera’s character Amy was instrumental in this regard, as she represented the experiences of millions of working-class Americans, many of whom are Latinx. As a result, Ferrera’s departure from Superstore also raises wider questions about diversity and representation in the TV industry.
The issue of diverse actors and underrepresentation in the industry has been a longstanding concern. According to a recent report by the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative, only 3% of all speaking roles in popular movies are played by Latino actors. Similarly, Latinx actors represent just 6% of series regulars on broadcast scripted shows. Ferrera’s departure from Superstore has reignited the debate about the unequal representation of minority groups in Hollywood.
Interview with America Ferrera
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Ferrera revealed that she decided to leave Superstore to focus on her long-standing passion for producing. Ferrera explains that she wanted to create more opportunities for underrepresented voices in the TV industry. She stated that “I am stepping away from Superstore but not leaving it. I will still be watching as a fan and will be cheering everyone on”.
Ferrera was also full of praise for her experience on the show, stating that “I am so proud of the stories we told on Superstore, the cast, and crew who made it all possible. Mostly I am grateful for the audiences who laughed and cared with us over the years”. She went on to express her excitement about creating her own content, which she believes will have a positive impact on diverse and marginalized communities.
Ratings, Viewership, and Reception of Superstore
Superstore has been a popular program since its debut in 2015. Its impressive ratings and viewership helped it to secure renewal for six seasons. However, the show has yet to be renewed for a seventh season, leaving many fans worried about its future. Ferrera’s departure has prompted speculation about whether Superstore can survive without its lead star.
The show’s ratings have been consistently high throughout its run. According to Nielsen ratings, Superstore’s overall audience reach for Season 5 was over 12 million viewers. However, it remains to be seen whether the show will continue to succeed following Ferrera’s exit.
Personal Reflection on Ferrera’s Portrayal of a Working-Class Woman
As a working-class woman myself, I found Ferrera’s portrayal of Amy to be both relatable and inspiring. Her character represented an often-overlooked section of society, highlighting the daily struggles and obstacles that many working-class Latinas face. Ferrera’s departure will undoubtedly leave a void in representation for this demographic, which can be difficult to find in the mainstream media.
Comparison to Other High-Profile TV Show Departures
Ferrera’s departure is not the first time a high-profile actor has left a successful TV show. In recent years, a number of actors have left their respective programs, including Steve Carell from The Office and Ellen Pompeo from Grey’s Anatomy.
The effects of these departures can vary widely. On some occasions, the remaining cast members are able to rise to the challenge and continue to produce high-quality shows. However, other times, the absence of a key actor can result in a significant loss of viewership and subsequent cancellation.
Opinion on How Ferrera’s Departure Relates to Larger Issues in Hollywood
Ferrera’s departure from Superstore highlights a larger issue in Hollywood, namely, the lack of opportunities for diverse actors and producers. Ferrera’s passion for creating more opportunities for underrepresented voices is a step in the right direction. Hollywood still needs to make significant investments in diverse storytelling to ensure that minority voices and experiences are represented properly in TV and film.
Conclusion
America Ferrera’s departure from Superstore has left a significant void in the show’s future. However, her exit can also be seen as an opportunity to continue the work Ferrera herself began during her time on the show: increasing representation of marginalized communities in Hollywood. As fans of Superstore, we are undoubtedly sad to see Ferrera depart, but we can also be optimistic about the positive changes she will continue to bring about in the industry.