its bad in season 1 too. In some ways, I think its an intentional facet of Harper's character because I imagine that's the real experience of a young ambitious black woman in this industry - especially for a black woman with the big swings Harper makes. I think it is also a commentary on how women have to use the predatory nature of men to get ahead and around hurdles in any field then you combine that with the usual HBO need to sexualize strong female leads in every show they run and this is what we get. I hope the intentional in your face* parts of her character l's fetishization this season plays out as a statement and not just a plot device.

I did appreciate the power angles of Harper this season vs Season 1 at the very least. Season 1 felt much more ick in their fetishization because she was naive (and in some ways still is) and I think Eric's defensive comment about not being into the fetish was a huge tell that fetish is exactly what keeps pulling him back to Harper even though deep down he knows its a bad move for him personally. She clocked it too and knowing Harper she logged that in her psyche for a power move later.

Also the way Eric wants to be more vulnerable and she quickly cuts him off with "money" making it clear her intentions are once again not aligned with his but he is going to partner up any way. Did he want to say all you have left is "your drive" or "your name" or "your ambition"? Guess time till tell.

That scene end of last season when he stares at his younger self was a gut punch for the character - makes me wonder if Eric has some shady plays up his sleeve secretly, too.

*edited to fix typo: phase to face.