Television has always held a special place in my heart, second only to books. While my viewing time has diminished due to the demands of parenthood, my love for the medium remains strong. However, many of my cherished shows are now considered outdated and problematic, primarily due to their depiction of social norms and values that have since evolved.
Reflecting on older shows through a contemporary lens reveals that many of them, even those once celebrated for their progressive themes, don’t align with today’s standards of social acceptability. This doesn’t mean we must discard our fond memories of them, but it’s crucial to recognize their shortcomings. Here’s a look at five beloved series that have not aged gracefully:
1. Glee
Glee started as an inspiring tale of misfits in a small Ohio town but quickly lost its way as the seasons progressed. Initially, it aimed to showcase the struggles of marginalized characters—like LGBTQ+ youth and those with disabilities. Yet, it often turned their hardships into fodder for jokes, particularly through the character of Sue Sylvester. Her derogatory nicknames for characters like Kurt and Mercedes, as well as the portrayal of Unique, highlighted its insensitivity. Despite some positive representation, the overall treatment of these characters often fell flat.
2. 7th Heaven
While I never understood the appeal of 7th Heaven, I was surprised to learn how many of my friends were fans. The series presented a seemingly perfect white Christian family navigating moral dilemmas with an unrealistic level of neat resolution. As a viewer outside its target demographic, I found its handling of serious issues, like addiction and teenage rebellion, to be overly simplistic and problematic. For example, locking a family member in a room for detox? Not okay.
3. Gilmore Girls
This series is tough to critique because it was beloved by many. However, a closer examination reveals that Lorelai and Rory Gilmore often embody problematic traits. While their witty exchanges and charming town captivated audiences, the show is riddled with transphobia, homophobia, and fat-shaming. As my friend Mia observed, Rory transitions from a relatable character to someone who embodies privilege and entitlement, which only worsened in the revival series.
4. Sex and the City
In my youth, I adored Sex and the City, but as I matured, the show’s flaws became glaringly apparent. Carrie Bradshaw’s extravagant lifestyle, funded by a freelance writing career, seemed unrealistic. More importantly, her selfish behavior and the characters’ tendency to slut-shame each other—especially directed at Samantha—were troubling. The show’s lack of diversity and its treatment of LGBTQ+ relationships were also disappointing. And don’t even get me started on the films.
5. Will and Grace
While Will and Grace broke ground for its portrayal of gay relationships, it also perpetuated stereotypes and contained many problematic elements. Jack’s mocking behavior towards lesbians and Karen’s treatment of her maid were troubling aspects that overshadowed the show’s progressive moments. Although the revival attempted to address contemporary issues, it often did so in a way that was more performative than substantive.
It’s essential to acknowledge that not all aspects of older shows resonate positively today. With the prevalence of streaming services, these series are reintroduced to new audiences, who are often quick to identify their problematic elements. It’s a valuable exercise to explore how much societal perspectives have shifted since these shows aired, and it’s crucial to engage with this evolving discourse. For more information about the changing landscape of fertility and family planning, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary
Many beloved TV shows from the past have become problematic in light of contemporary social standards. While they once offered representation and entertainment, their outdated themes and portrayals often fall short today. It’s important to recognize these flaws while appreciating the nostalgia they bring.