The Representation of the Prison Industrial Complex in the Show Orange is the New Black: the Implications of Representation of Fictional Media on Viewers

This thesis explores the accuracy and relevance of the representation of the prison industrial complex in the show Orange is the New Black and the potential impact it has on viewers. The data is collected from the show as well as relevant news stories. The conclusion is not a stamp of “accurate” or “inaccurate”, rather it is a discussion on the different impacts the show could have on viewers that have different exposure to the prison industrial complex. Finally, there are suggestions for further study and a call to action for television and film executives.