One Day At A Time Season 4: Justina Machado on Pop TV Revival, Penelope’s Love, and New Challenges
The highly anticipated fourth season of the critically acclaimed sitcom, One Day At A Time, is making its triumphant return, proving that sometimes, love truly can save the day. After a heartbreaking cancellation by Netflix following its third season, the beloved show found a new home on Pop TV, much to the delight of its passionate fanbase and dedicated cast. Premiering on March 24, this revival marks a significant moment for television, showcasing the power of a loyal community and a story that resonates deeply with audiences.
For Justina Machado, who masterfully portrays the resilient and relatable single mother Penelope Alvarez, the feeling of returning for season 4 is nothing short of “fantastic.” Speaking EXCLUSIVELY to HollywoodLife during a visit to the show’s set at Sony Pictures Studios, Justina expressed immense gratitude and excitement. “It’s very exciting,” she shared, her enthusiasm palpable. “We’re all so grateful and we can’t wait to be on the air.” The journey back to the screen has been an emotional rollercoaster for everyone involved, and the collective relief and joy are evident. The cast and crew are not just returning to work; they are returning to a story and characters that have become a vital part of many viewers’ lives.
A Fresh Start: Weekly Episodes and Network Television
One of the most notable changes for One Day At A Time, beyond its new network home, is the shift from a streaming model to traditional weekly broadcasts. Justina Machado openly welcomed this change, stating, “I’m really excited about it being weekly as opposed to streaming. I’ve always thought it was more of a weekly show.” This preference highlights a different viewing experience. Weekly episodes allow for anticipation to build, foster water cooler conversations, and provide a shared experience for viewers across the country. In an era dominated by binge-watching, a return to weekly releases could re-energize the community aspect of television, allowing fans to savor each episode and discuss its themes and plot developments in real-time. This slower consumption pace might also give the profound social commentaries woven into the show’s fabric more time to sink in and resonate with the audience.
The transition from a streaming giant like Netflix to Pop TV, a cable network, naturally brings about certain adjustments. Justina acknowledges a “big noticeable change” that will impact the show’s structure: “We have less time. We only have 20 minutes now, as opposed to the 30 minutes we had before.” This reduction in runtime, necessitated by the inclusion of commercials, cold opens, and tags – elements unfamiliar to the show in its Netflix days – presents a unique creative challenge. The writing team and production crew will have to master the art of concise storytelling, ensuring that every minute counts and that the show’s signature blend of humor, heart, and social commentary remains intact. Despite these structural shifts, Justina adamantly reassures fans, “But other than that, it’s the same show.” This commitment to preserving the show’s core identity, its warmth, its wit, and its unflinching look at contemporary issues, is a testament to the creators’ vision and the enduring power of the Alvarez family’s story.
Penelope’s Journey: Love, Growth, and Directorial Debut
While Justina Machado remained tight-lipped about the intricate details of Penelope’s storyline in season 4, she offered an enticing tease: “I can say that she’s got love. She’s got a big love in her life right now.” This revelation is particularly exciting for fans who have followed Penelope’s journey of self-discovery, dating struggles, and commitment to her family and career as a nurse practitioner. Penelope’s romantic life has always been a nuanced aspect of her character, balancing her desire for companionship with her responsibilities and personal growth. The prospect of a “big love” suggests a significant development for her character, potentially exploring themes of adult romance, co-parenting challenges, and finding happiness amidst the complexities of life. This storyline promises to be “very exciting,” adding another rich layer to the already multifaceted portrayal of a modern Latina woman.
Beyond her acting duties, Justina Machado is set to embark on a new creative endeavor this season: directing an episode! This marks a significant milestone in her career and speaks volumes about her talent and dedication to the show. Directing an episode of a show you star in offers a unique perspective, allowing for a deeper understanding of the storytelling process and an opportunity to shape the narrative from behind the camera. It also highlights the collaborative spirit on the set of One Day At A Time, where cast members are empowered to contribute in various capacities, further enriching the creative output. Fans will undoubtedly be eager to see her directorial vision come to life on screen.
The Unstoppable Power of the Fanbase
The return of One Day At A Time is, in large part, a direct result of the unwavering dedication of its incredible fanbase. When the cancellation by Netflix was announced, fans immediately mobilized, launching a relentless social media campaign under the #SaveODAAT hashtag, petitioning networks, and spreading the word with an astonishing fervor. This grassroots movement showcased the profound connection viewers felt with the Alvarez family and their stories. Justina Machado, along with the rest of the cast and crew, expressed immense gratitude for this support. “It’s incredible,” Justina remarked, visibly touched by their efforts. “We have a great fan base… It was amazing what they did and we’re so grateful.”
The One Day At A Time fanbase is truly unlike any other. They are not just passive viewers; they are active advocates for a show that represents them, addresses important social issues, and offers a refreshing take on family dynamics. The show has been lauded for its authentic portrayal of a Cuban-American family, tackling subjects such as immigration, mental health, LGBTQ+ issues, sexism, and racism with sensitivity and humor. For many, One Day At A Time is more than just entertainment; it’s a reflection of their own lives and struggles, a source of comfort, and a platform for important conversations. The success of the #SaveODAAT campaign is a powerful testament to the influence of engaged audiences in the modern television landscape, proving that fan voices can indeed make a difference.
The journey from cancellation to revival underscores the unique and vital role One Day At A Time plays in the cultural conversation. Its ability to blend laugh-out-loud comedy with poignant, thought-provoking moments has earned it critical acclaim and a devoted following. The show’s nuanced character development, its willingness to explore complex themes, and its celebration of diversity have cemented its place as a groundbreaking series. The fact that Pop TV stepped in to save the show speaks volumes about its undeniable quality and its importance to a significant segment of the viewing public. It serves as a beacon of hope for other beloved shows facing cancellation, illustrating that sometimes, the collective will of the audience can indeed triumph.
Looking Ahead to a Promising Season 4
As One Day At A Time embarks on its fourth season, it carries with it the hopes and expectations of millions. The shift to Pop TV, the adjustments in episode length, and the new creative challenges will undoubtedly infuse the show with a fresh energy, while its core values and compelling storytelling will remain firmly in place. Fans can look forward to seeing the Alvarez family navigate new triumphs and tribulations, continuing to inspire, entertain, and provoke meaningful discussion. Penelope’s burgeoning love life, Justina Machado’s directorial debut, and the continued exploration of relevant social issues promise a season filled with warmth, laughter, and powerful moments.
The revival of One Day At A Time is not just a victory for a TV show; it’s a victory for authentic representation, for diverse storytelling, and for the incredible power of a dedicated community. Mark your calendars: One Day At A Time season 4 premieres March 24 at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT on Pop TV. Beginning April 14, the show will move to its regular time slot of 9 p.m. ET/PT. Get ready to laugh, cry, and fall in love all over again with the Alvarez family.