Orange Is the New Black

Editor Reviews

• Knox Pemberton

  Rating: 7

  7

  December 12, 2025

  'Orange Is the New Black' broke new ground by taking viewers inside a women's prison, offering a diverse and compelling ensemble of characters. What started as Piper Chapman's fish-out-of-water story quickly expanded to tell the rich, often heartbreaking, backstories of the other inmates, revealing the paths that led them to Litchfield Penitentiary. The series fearlessly tackles complex issues like race, class, sexuality, and the failures of the justice system, all while blending drama with sharp humor. It's a show that celebrates individuality and resilience, showing the unexpected bonds and rivalries that form in confinement. A truly transformative series that changed the landscape of television.

• Lennox Park

  Rating: 5

  5

  July 15, 2025

  Explore the lives of the women incarcerated at Litchfield Penitentiary in Orange Is the New Black. This critically acclaimed series offers a raw and often humorous look at the American prison system through the eyes of Piper Chapman, a privileged woman who is sentenced to prison for a decade-old crime. Based on Piper Kerman's memoir, the show is celebrated for its diverse cast and its willingness to tackle difficult and important social issues. It's a powerful and moving series that sheds light on the lives and experiences of women from all walks of life.

• Rory Gallagher

  Rating: 6

  6

  March 30, 2025

  This series features Laverne Cox as Sophia Burset, a transgender woman serving time in prison. Orange Is the New Black was groundbreaking for its portrayal of a transgender character as a complex and multifaceted individual. Sophia's storyline explores the challenges she faces in prison, as well as her relationships with her family and fellow inmates. Cox's performance was widely praised and helped to raise visibility for transgender actors and issues.

• Iris Caldwell

  Rating: 5

  5

  March 27, 2025

  Set in a women's prison, this series follows Piper Chapman as she adjusts to life behind bars. While it incorporates elements of comedy and drama, the escape attempts are secondary to the characters' daily lives. The show stands out for its diverse cast and its exploration of social issues. While it has escape attempts, they are not central to the show's narrative, focusing more on the relationships and personal stories of the inmates. The series received critical acclaim for its writing, acting, and its honest portrayal of life in prison. 'Orange Is the New Black' paved the way for greater representation of women and LGBTQ+ characters on television, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.