Television has always been a passion of mine, ranking just behind books as my favorite form of entertainment. However, as a busy mom, I find myself watching less TV these days. Many of the shows I once adored are now relics of the past, often feeling outdated or problematic by today’s standards. While these shows may have been groundbreaking or entertaining at their time of airing, they haven’t aged gracefully into the present day. It’s essential to reflect on how our perceptions have shifted over the years. Here’s a look at five beloved series that now raise eyebrows for various reasons.
1. Glee
Glee aimed to celebrate the misfits—those who felt out of place in high school. However, as the seasons progressed, it often missed the mark. The show intended to uplift marginalized characters but frequently reduced their struggles to mere punchlines. For instance, the character Kurt, who had a touching coming-out story, was mocked for his appearance with comments like “Porcelain.” Similarly, the only Black character initially, Mercedes, was referred to as “Aretha,” reducing her to stereotypes. Their approach to trans representation was equally misguided, as they mismanaged the character Unique and converted a straight character into a trans man. Despite some positive moments for LGBTQ+ representation, the negatives sometimes overshadowed the positives.
2. 7th Heaven
Though I never quite understood the appeal of 7th Heaven, I was surprised to learn how many of my friends were fans. At first glance, it portrayed a wholesome, perfect family led by a reverend, but the moral dilemmas faced by the characters often felt overly simplistic. Issues like teenage rebellion were tied up in neat resolutions, which lacked depth and realism. For example, when Mary’s behavior spiraled, the family decided to send her away rather than address the underlying issues. It’s hard to fathom that this show ran for a whopping 11 seasons.
3. Gilmore Girls
This one is tough, but necessary. While Gilmore Girls charmed viewers with its quirky characters and rapid-fire dialogue, a closer look reveals some troubling aspects. Lorelai and Rory, the central characters, often displayed questionable behavior, with themes of transphobia and fat-shaming woven throughout the narrative. Many fans, including my friend Sarah, feel Rory’s character devolved into a less admirable person as the series progressed. Despite a revival, it failed to fix many of the original’s flaws.
4. Sex and the City
As a fan of Sex and the City in my younger years, I now recognize its glaring flaws. Carrie Bradshaw, the protagonist, embodies several problematic traits—selfishness, superficiality, and a tendency to mistreat her friends. The show has been criticized for its unrealistic portrayal of finances, as Carrie lives lavishly on a freelancer’s salary. Moreover, the characters often engage in slut-shaming, particularly directed at Samantha, and the show’s lack of diversity is hard to ignore. The subsequent films only amplified these issues.
5. Will and Grace
While Will and Grace was a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ representation, it wasn’t without its faults. The show often made jokes at the expense of marginalized groups, particularly with Jack’s stereotypical portrayal of gay men and his treatment of lesbians. Karen’s substance abuse, while played for laughs, was problematic and reflected poorly on the show’s handling of serious issues. Although the revival attempted to address more contemporary topics, it often felt like a missed opportunity for genuine growth.
Acknowledging these issues doesn’t mean we must disown these series entirely. Today’s audiences are more discerning, and it’s crucial to engage critically with the media we consume. With the rise of streaming services, these shows continue to reach new generations, who are quick to call out their outdated tropes and stereotypes.
In conclusion, while nostalgia for these shows is valid, it’s equally important to recognize their shortcomings and have honest conversations about their impact on society.
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