John Krasinski’s “Some Good News” is what we need right now

While it’s important to stay informed during the coronavirus outbreak, doing so can lead to hours spent scrolling through heaps of negative updates about the rising number of confirmed cases and death tolls. Don’t get me wrong, it’s necessary to know these statistics in order to understand the severity of the situation ― but that doesn’t mean we aren’t due for some good news. 

For this very reason, a hero has emerged through the darkness attached to the pandemic to spread positive news ― actor and director John Krasinski, known for his role in “The Office.” Two weeks ago Krasinski started a YouTube channel, “Some Good News,” where he posts weekly episodes featuring positive stories from around the world. 

Krasinski begins his episodes by sharing uplifting news sent to him via social media by fans, as well as documenting acts of kindness, usually through some sort of Zoom call surprise. 

For instance, in episode two, he surprised a little girl who had cancelled plans to see “Hamilton” ― a popular Broadway musical. So, Krasinski surprised her with a performance of the opening song, sung by the original cast over a Zoom call. Surprises like this seem to put a smile on my face, which is something that doesn’t happen as often now that I’m stuck inside.

The response to these episodes is extremely positive, reaching millions of views and soaring to the top of the YouTube trending page. They also have been serving as a great distraction from more upsetting news that’s been circulating lately. 

Krasinski manages to find ways to create lighthearted content in the midst of this crisis with heartwarming videos and interviews, like when he interviewed Steve Carell, another actor on “The Office,” to celebrate the show’s 15th anniversary. They talked about their favorite memories and episodes, which was definitely a highlight for me, a devoted fan of the show. 

Outside of referencing his own career, Krasinski welcomes others who wish to broadcast good news and even intro suggestions ― for example, he changes his intro in each video to a message shared to him from a fan.

But I think that the best thing about these powerful, 20-minute videos is the relatability. During this time, I’m stuck at home and bored out of my mind, which is the reason that Krasinski started his show in the first place. 

He films the episodes in his house with a homemade sign made by his kids, and proves that nobody, not even celebrities, are leaving the house right now. It’s this sense of relatability Krasinski has that brings viewers back to listen to the good news he has to share. 

“Some Good News” is exactly what the world needs right now. After weeks of being bombarded with bad news, I can turn to Krasinski to be reminded that there is always good in the world.