As Much As I Like Nini (sometimes), I Think One Of The Reasons Why This Season Is Working Out So Well

As much as I like Nini (sometimes), I think one of the reasons why this season is working out so well is because she's not the lead anymore. She is more girl next door, homegrown type with a bit more reserved personality which doesnt lend itself well to more dramatic or goofy or crazy storylines because her character is rooted in being grounded. When she is lead, it's hard to expand the other characters outside the confines of "Nini's World". That world is a nice simple world but has no room for outrageous events. The characters previously tethered to Nini's character now have room to grow beyond their confines in her world, particularly Kourtney and Ricky. Unsurprisingly, this season has been those two's best. (Though I would love even more Kourtney). Gina as lead changes the narrative and redefines the World to one that's more adventurous and colourful. They made the best decision transitioning to Gina as main girl because it took the show in a more exciting direction

I actually agree with everything you say - I like Nini as well and she was a big part of the show, but if I'm being honest the show is a lot better with Gina as the lead. Nini is such a 'disney' lead in my opinion and I think it confined the show a bit. I think her sort of energy kept the show in that more 'kids show' domain and with Gina as the lead its leaning more into the teen drama aspect (it always had a teen drama bent, but it is a lot more this season imo).

Plus with Nini gone, it has been refreshing to see some of the other characters stepping out and having more chance to shine. Especially Kourtney and Ricky as you said, have more agency and shine more without their storylines revolving around Nini. Plus, Ricky has always been such a goof, but Nini kind of dampened it a bit and now he's in full fledged fool mode every episode lol.

mad respect to hsmtmts for including a storyline acknowledging that not everyone has big dreams, and that some people are genuinely happy in roles that are considered "lesser" by society

bonus points for ashlyn accepting this and supporting big red without continuing to push him to think bigger

ive been praying for dara in the core four for so long i dont think anyone understands how much i wished for this

"Maddox is handing out camp nicknames" they said. Where are the camp nicknames, Disney? I want to hear the camp nicknames!

rewatching episode 7 again bc im gay and i just now realised that since they're all at camp, there was no way for carlos to buy that pin, so it must have be one he already owned. he gave ashyln one of HIS OWN PRIDE PINS im LOSING it carlos and ashyln underrated duo of the century

Okay but I really hope we get to see the phone call between Ashlyn and Big Red in S4. I want to see the wholesome "you're bi? same!" conversation so bad.