While not all network comedies have rewatchability, the invention of Netflix has helped shows like The Office and Parks and Recreation remain at the forefront of pop culture. Both shows are constantly binge watched and introduced to new audiences, resulting the various bits and jokes being immortal. No one knows this quite as much as Parks and Recreation actress Retta. Retta starred as Donna Meagle during the show's long run on NBC, with her most iconic moment coming from the annual Treat Yo Self Days with Aziz Ansari's Tom Haverford. There's just one thing: people won't leave her alone about it. As Retta described in her new book,
Here's my thing: People really think that they're the first person to say it to me. Like they are breaking new ground. I'll order food, they'll hand it to me and say, 'Treat yo self.' I'll be getting on a flight: 'Treat yo self.' And don't let me post a new purse or a happy-hour cocktail on Instagram. If I don't get a hundred Treat Yo Self comments then something is wrong. I usually try to smile and be friendly about it because for them it's a big deal. They've never seen me in person and it's likely the first thing that pops to mind. What I don't like is when someone expects me to say it on their Snapchat or in a video to their friend. I'm sorry but I'm not your puppet.
While Retta seems appreciative of her time on Parks & Rec and the support of the show's fans, Treat yo aelf sounds more like a curse than the best day ever. Because the phrase is still so popular Retta can't seem to get through a day without being reminded of Donna's favorite holiday.
Retta was able to finally address these issues and more in her new memoir So Close to Being the Sh*t, Y'all Don't Even Know. Fans of Parks and Recreation are no doubt going to be looking for those chapters, which we've managed to sneak a peek of via Hello Giggles. The problem seems to be that every self-respecting fan wants to make that reference to Retta. It's just that the joke isn't so funny when you're on the receiving end for years.
While most fans may know Retta from playing Donna Meagle and treating herself on Parks & Rec, she's been keeping very busy in the years since the show concluded. She's currently starring in NBC's Good Girls, which was renewed for a second season. She also had a recurring role in Girlfriends' Guide to Divorce, and parts in movies like To The Bone and Father Figures.
You can catch up on Parks and Recreation on Netflix, and catch up on Good Girls over at Hulu. In the meantime, check out our summer premiere list to plan your next binge watch. Plus our Amazon premiere list and superhero premiere list to ensure you don't miss a single episode.
