Just two episodes in, and Velma's already getting slammed by critics. Over-react much?

 To be fair, I haven't seen Velma yet, but since my bi-weekly viewing party usually checks out Harley Quinn, HBO Max's more established adult cartoon, now in its 3rd season, that may change.

But ever since the first two episodes dropped January 12, the backlash has been so severe, such that people are up in arms over today's news that the series has already been renewed for a 2nd season, reportedly, by HBO Max.

Billed as an alternate-universe origin for not only Velma herself (Mindy Kaling, ex-The Mindy Project), but for what eventually becomes Mystery, Inc.. As we've previously discussed, Norville Rogers (don't call him Shaggy just yet) has been flipped to African-American (Sam Richardson). Daphne is no longer the wealthy socialite we know and love, but a foundling raised by a lesbian couple (Jane Lynch, ex-Glee, & Wanda Sykes, last heard from on----wait for it----Harley Quinn). Constance Wu (ex-Fresh Off The Boat) essays the part here. Fred is still a goof, but now more narcissistic (Glenn Howerton was cast for the role), and is still in love with Daphne.

The biggest complaint, of course, is the absence of Scooby-Doo. Like, this is a prequel, man! The fact that the show has already been renewed tells us Mindy intends to get to the point where the kids meet Scooby before she's done. 

The complaints come from long-time fans who feel that without Scooby, there's no show. We'll give Mindy points for rebooting the gang in the name of cultural diversity, including addressing the long held belief in some fan circles of Velma's own sexuality. To borrow the title of an earlier Scooby series, get a clue!!

Let's revisit the trailer:

Velma is not for everyone. We get it. It's not safe for kids (NSFK) because of the adult themes. Mindy's writing partner is 2nd generation comic Charlie Grandy. Yeah, his dad is former actor and Iowa Rep. Fred Grandy (ex-The Love Boat, Monster Squad). Charlie, so far, has been fortunate not to get the tomatoes thrown in his direction, but then again, all the attention was focused on Mindy in the first place.

If HBO Max is really serious about the show, maybe repurposing it on [adult swim] would serve in good stead. From all indications, it seems Velma pushes the envelope even more than Harley, and that's saying something.......

There may be a review down the line. Stay tooned.