Help me understand the posts asking “can I watch x if I don’t watch y?”

First… yes. You can do whatever you want. But you’re already 25-ish years late, there’s no deadline here, so why are people trying to shave off a few hours here and there.

If you start the series and it’s not for you, then stop. That’s okay! But if you’re enjoying it, watch the whole thing. Nothing is gained from skipping parts. This isn’t SVU, it’s not that big of a time investment. Just watch the damn show. In chronological order. And enjoy it.