16/06/2026
I came across a review from someone who felt triggered by the way HIV was portrayed in The Polygamist. While I respect that perspective, I interpreted the message differently.
For me, The series highlighted the dangers of misinformation and denial in the 21st century. Jonas had access to treatment, yet he chose alternative remedies instead of taking his medication consistently and making the necessary lifestyle changes. The consequences were devastating.
I also saw it as an educational opportunity, particularly for men who engage in unprotected sexual relationships without considering the risks. The series reminds us that reckless sexual behaviour can bring more than just conflict into a home, it can have life-altering health consequences for entire families.
What stood out to me was that 2K did not display the visible symptoms that Jonas did. To me, that reinforced an important message: HIV does not always “look” like HIV. It also highlighted the importance of adherence to treatment and taking responsibility for one’s health rather than living in ignorance or denial.
I appreciated that the show sparked these conversations. Whether one agrees with the ex*****on or not, it opened the door for discussions about accountability, treatment adherence, stigma, and the realities of living with HIV today.
Of course, this is simply my interpretation, and I stand to be corrected.
