The arrival of fall brings a legion of things. Now, while I am a HATER for absolutely anything pumpkin spiced, there is a lot to look forward to —Taylor Swift’s evermore, plaid skirts, cosy sweaters, and of course, the annual ritualistic Gilmore Girls rewatch. While Brat Summer did inspire us to be the most audacious, unapologetic version of ourselves, there is absolutely nothing that sounds better than a snug night in, taking a trip to Stars Hollow. Bonus points if there’s pizza involved (but no salad!).
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The show has become synonymous with comfort and warmth. There’s a reason why the internet buzzes with Gilmore Girls content as soon as the days get shorter and the nights get longer. Whether it’s debates over Team Jess vs. Team Logan or recreations of Sookie and Luke’s recipes, nostalgic millennials and comfort-craving Gen Zs can’t get enough of the show. This is because it is infused with mellowness—it reminds us of home. Gilmore Girls is a show with an extremely distinctive identity, thanks to Amy Sherman-Palladino’s crystal-clear vision. It appeals to everyone—much like the menu at Al’s Pancake World, offering a little something to suit every taste and preference.
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Whether it’s Lorelai Gilmore-themed outfits, Lane Kim-inspired playlists, Jess Mariano’s reading lists, or Rory Gilmore’s ambience playlists, there is something for everyone. However, in my opinion, what works most about this show is how it portrays an innocently unrealistic yet somewhat attainable lifestyle.
From unhealthily romanticising take-out food to making ‘Every morning is a jumbo coffee morning’ a mantra for life, Gilmore Girls has a wholesome, almost quaint charm—despite the fact that some aspects have aged, just like Kirk’s Easter eggs. The show’s selective feminism, its blatant ignorance of privilege, and, of course, Rory’s insufferable homewrecker era, all feel a bit cringe in hindsight. Rory’s dramatic mid-semester exit from Yale, followed by her seemingly effortless return, is a perfect example.
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The Gilmore lifestyle seems almost comfortingly convenient. Lorelai may joke that she’s ‘been two inches away from a nervous breakdown for years,’ but somehow their chaos always works out. It’s like living in Stars Hollow—where nothing ever goes too wrong, and life has a way of conveniently working out, just in time for the next town festival or the other. However, this comforting portrayal can sometimes tip into delusion, revealing the deepest flaw in the show.
But let’s be real—Gilmore Girls is loved for so much more than its occasional missteps. Its witty, rapid-fire dialogue is one of the show’s most charming features. Whether it’s Lorelai’s endless pop culture references or the constant tug-of-war between Luke and Taylor, the show keeps us laughing even on the millionth rewatch. Watching Gilmore Girls on a Saturday evening is like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket. Even when things seem to be falling apart, you know you’ll find comfort, laughter, and maybe another cup of coffee waiting for you at the infamous Luke’s Diner.
And so, as the leaves start to change colour, my craving for Carole King with a side of pancakes is inevitable. Every morning starts with the famous ‘La La La’ melody and every night ends with me taking a Who Would Be Your Gilmore Girls Boyfriend? quiz. I always get Jess Mariano. That’s actually what keeps me coming back for more.
