We collectively yearn for the distraction of a Met Gala, or of any socialization really, so in a way the show’s countless scenes of live music, shopping and bar-hopping feel like pandemic porn. Katy Keene has truly become the escapist saga it has always yearned to be…albeit due to tragic real world events that have made its lightness so immediately appealing.
At one point in this episode Guy’s latest high-profile client remarks “I think you might be the most earnest person I’ve ever met, don’t change” to Katy. It is advice that the series itself should take. Despite its flaws, Katy Keene is providing a fun distraction right now. That is very much appreciated.
All that said, let’s get into the substance of this episode. Once again Katy, reeling from her rejection into Parson’s saves Guy’s ass by giving one of his lackluster creations a bit of the Keene magic. The Guy character possesses three moods: Angsty, mean and horny, all of which are showcased tonight. But wait, there’s a latecomer – gratitude. In an unpredictable bit of character development, Guy gave Katy a much needed confidence boost by telling the fashion world’s biggest and brightest that she is a talent to watch. He didn’t have to do this, but he did. The argument can be made that he did this just so he could sleep with her, a terrible move for all involved to be sure, but I believe that he was genuine in the moment. His success also illustrates to Katy that you don’t need Parson’s training to thrive.
In the wake of last week’s scattered take on the Me Too movement, the messages being sent here are mixed. Katy is making her way up the fashion ladder on her own terms, not that a gossip-loving word will care if news of this dalliance gets out following the Price Errol incident. She is a character who is earnest, and will ultimately succeed. But boy, does she make some terrible choices involving men.
Speaking of which, I am pleased to see that this show is attempting to make Katy and K.O. friends. They had a bit of a romantic spark on the red carpet, but they work better platonically. K.O. and Alexandra are a much more realistic pairing, given their shared lack of character definition on the show to date. (He says with a meow louder than anything the Pussycats could ever muster).