The show rings so true, in a hyper-reality sort of way. [28 Sept 1999, p.C09]

If "Popular" can do for social stratification what "Party of Five" did for addiction, it may have a chance. [29 Sept 1999, p.F1]

Both leads are very good, particularly Bibb, who makes what could have been a superficial character touching without making her cheaply sympathetic. The real standout, however, is Rue, who is luminous as a weight-challenged girl who longs to hear cheers. [29 Sept 1999, p.3D]

The acting needs to improve. Bibb is the show's standout as the popular girl with demons of her own, but Pope isn't entirely convincing as the outsider harboring a secret desire to fit in. Same goes for the supporting cast. Some are pros, notably Tamara Mello as a feisty activist and Sara Rue as the overweight cheerleader wannabe, but others appear to be graduates of the "Saved by the Bell" school of the performing arts. [29 Sept 1999, p.C10]

During its opening two episodes, Popular is basically content to be just another jaunty, semi-"Clueless" spoke on WB's glossy teen entertainment wheel. Great to look at, yes, but short on emotional depth. [29 Sept 1999, p.5E]

One of those standard-issue high school series, and it's infuriating. [29 Sept 1999, p.59]

Despicably trivial and baldly pandering. [29 Sept 1999, p.C01]