Darren Criss on GLEE: "Never Been Kissed" Review

Let's just say I almost died of fangirlism when I saw the Glee teaser on YouTube of Darren Criss singing an a capella version of Teenage Girl complete with snappy choreography and a swooning Kurt. Having watched him BE The Boy Who Lived in the fan made Harry Potter musical, "A Very Potter Musical", I've grown fond of his voice, wit and sheer talent.

And now, it's surreal to see him all grown up and world wide famous with his new role on Glee. The fact that he's playing an openly gay character on the show did not even deter us fans from melting into a groupie puddle while watching him serenade Kurt. 

I know AVPM fans listened to every word that came out of his mouth, and like everyone else belonging to that group, I thought of this song when he said in the episode: 

"You're not alone."

Yes, insane, I know. I should be over the pre-adolescent phase of hero worship, but I can't help it. He's just totally awesome. (Btw, I bet I would faint if he said that line on the show.)

As for the episode, I think this is one of the strongest Glee has done since the beginning of season 2. No hyped up pop princess to cover, but it made up for the heart and the lesson that it is trying to give. The locker scene with Kurt and the Neanderthal bully was still a surprise even though I saw that arc a mile away. Kudos to the actors for such an emotionally charged scene. I also liked the symmetry between Kurt and Coach Beastie's personal conflicts, although her locker scene with Mr. Schuester was a bit unsettling. For me, at least.

All in all, the strength of the episode lies in its newest guest star. (Yes, I know I'm biased). But come on, he really was amazing and I sure hope to see him in future episodes. An AVPM line or an inside joke would be priceless, just so you know. Ryan Murphy, I sure hope you're listening.