The Righteous Gemstones is an American comedy TV series created by Danny McBride that follows a famous and dysfunctional family of televangelists based in South Carolina. The family, led by patriarch Eli Gemstone, runs a megachurch and lives opulently funded by the church's wealth. The show centers on the dynamics and conflicts within the family, including Eli's adult children Jesse, Judy, and Kelvin, as they navigate scandals, power struggles, and personal challenges while managing their religious empire
. The series blends satire and irreverent humor to explore themes of faith, greed, and hypocrisy in the world of megachurches. It features elements of sex, violence, and debauchery, but its creator Danny McBride has expressed that the show is meant to resonate with religious viewers by satirizing frustrating aspects of organized religion rather than mocking faith itself. The show also reflects on how faith can be transformed into a business enterprise in modern America
. Across its four seasons, The Righteous Gemstones depicts various storylines such as blackmail scandals, business ventures like a Christian timeshare resort, threats from enemies including a vengeful militia leader, and personal growth and turmoil among the family members. The final season continues to explore the family's codependence and their attempts to move forward without letting go of their past
. In summary, The Righteous Gemstones is a darkly comedic drama about a wealthy televangelist family grappling with their public ministry and private dysfunction, using satire to critique the commercialization of religion and the flaws of those who wield spiritual authority
