Teenagers have taken a strong liking to the CW’s new show All American, which is based on a true story of a teenager growing up in poverty in Los Angeles. The show, created by April Blair, consists of two seasons breaking down the life of Spencer James, the main character, and his talent at football. Season one introduces Spencer and the struggles he and his single mom experience while trying to balance the necessities of life. 

Spencer’s talent is his one-way ticket out of the life he is living. Gangs and gun violence infest his neighborhood, and it seems like everywhere he looks there is trouble to face. Football thus becomes a saving grace for both him and his family. He invests himself into the sport and aspires to turn it into his lifestyle. After pleading for things to work in his favor, he meets Billy Baker, a coach from Beverly Hills who introduces him to a world of wealth. After the introduction of Coach Baker, Spencer and his mother are faced with the difficult decision of what will benefit his future. Overall, Spencer and his mom decide that he should take up Coach Bakers offer of transferring to Beverly Hills High School and be an addition to their football team.

In the first episode, All American covers the importance of wealth and what it means for a young person’s future. The remainder of season one follows up on Spencer’s decision to commit to a different lifestyle in order to better his future. 

From the glimpse into Spencer’s hometown and the new life he is about to live, the show sets up the underlying mystery of what is to happen for Spencer after he transfers schools. The transition, as one would presume, is not smooth, as his talent is met with backlash from his past team.

Although the characters in the show do not heavily touch on these topics, gun violence, gangs and relationships are a big part of what the characters experience. Following the high school schedule, the characters are faced with real-world challenges that can either save them or kill them.

Each episode is met with flashbacks from Spencer’s past life that a juxtaposed with where he has ended up. Filled drama, hope and a poignant coming-of-age plotline, this show will leave you on the edge of your seat.

Despite focusing on Spencer’s passion for football, All American is relatable to all teens today. From building relationships with people you’ve never met to fitting into an unfamiliar environment, the show offers something for everyone. 

October 7th, 2019 was the release of season two of All American, which answers many of the questions viewers had following season one. Spencer’s transfer to a new school, his new life within a new income of money, and the absence of his father are all covered in the new season.

All American does not disappoint when covering the important controversies of today. It is full of passion, and it does a good job of representing American diversity.  Whether you are a football fan or are just looking for a show to binge during quarantine, All American should be at the top of your list.