Is It a Standing Joke to Use Empty Coffee Cups in TV Dramas?

There's something that has started to irk me over the years as a devoted fan of television dramas - the inconsistent and often unrealistic portrayal of characters holding empty coffee cups. From popular shows like NCIS to everyday household dramas, it feels like a running gag that doesn't quite ring true.

The Persistent Problem: Gibbs' Coffee and Abby's CafPows

Anyone who has tuned into NCIS knows that Leroy Jethro Gibbs, the iconic Special Agent, never really drains his coffee cup. Instead, it's always depicted as half full at best, and often only a hint of coffee is visible, with plenty of room for more. NCIS is notorious for this, but a personal favorite in the series is Agent Abby Scuito, who always has a CafPow in one hand, despite it being her personal prop that never appears to be consumed.

The Impact on Storytelling and Authenticity

This depiction can have a significant impact on how viewers perceive the character and the overall narrative. As characters in these dramas are often meant to be relatable and authentic, the frequent use of empty coffee cups as props can come across as inauthentic and even tiresome. It's a small detail, but one that can affect the viewer's ability to suspend disbelief and emotionally invest in the story.

Industry Practices and Misrepresentation

The use of empty coffee cups as props is not unique to NCIS, or even to the television industry. This practice can be found across various genres and networks, often for the sake of convenience and cost. For example, when a character is shown sipping on a coffee cup, it can be challenging to ensure that the cup is never empty, which is particularly difficult in fast-paced scenes or when the camera is moving. This leads to the frequent use of empty cups in shots, even when the narrative might suggest otherwise.

Moreover, this issue is not limited to coffee cups. In many shows, a similar treatment can be seen with empty bottles of water or other beverages. The prop materials often have an expiry date or can be damaged if too much of the liquid is left inside, leading to the common practice of emptying them before the cameras roll.

Why Authenticity Matters in TV Dramas

Authentic storytelling is crucial in keeping audiences engaged and invested in the characters and their journeys. By portraying characters more realistically, especially in moments where they might be enjoying a quick sip of coffee or a refreshing drink, the show can foster a deeper connection with its viewers. For instance, a show that accurately depicts a character finishing a cup of coffee can make the character seem more relatable, human, and grounded in reality.

Case Studies in Misrepresentation

Take the show The Big Bang Theory as an example. While it is known for its humorous and exaggerated scenarios, the repeated use of empty coffee cups as props can disrupt the viewer's suspension of disbelief. It's not that the characters never drink their coffee, but the regularity with which empty cups are shown can make the series feel less genuine. Similarly, in Arrow or other superhero shows that frequently feature characters in fast-paced and action-packed scenes, empty cups can undermine the dramatic tension and authenticity of the moments.

Changing Industry Trends

While the use of empty coffee cups as props has been a longstanding tradition in television, there are efforts to change this trend. Directors and producers are increasingly seeking ways to make the stories more credible and the characters more authentic. This can include using more realistic props, clearing up inconsistencies, and being more mindful of details that can impact the overall narrative.

Conclusion: A Call for Improvement

Ultimately, it's time for the TV drama industry to seriously consider the impact of its props and sets on the authenticity of its storytelling. Characters holding empty coffee cups may seem like a small detail, but they can significantly affect how viewers perceive the show and its characters. By paying closer attention to these details, the industry can create more engaging, authentic, and relatable content that resonates with its audience.