Harmful Stereotypes and Serious Missteps: 8 1980s Sitcoms That Have Aged Horribly
Growing Pains and body jokes
Created by Neal Marlens, Growing Pains aired on ABC for seven seasons, from 1985 to 1992. It followed psychiatrist Jason Seaver, his reporter wife Maggie and their children Mike, Carol and Ben. When Maggie returned to work, Jason worked from home while caring for the children.
The show’s treatment of Carol’s weight became a concern. After Tracey Gold gained weight between seasons three and four, the writers made her the target of jokes from her siblings, especially Mike. The series also featured gender dynamics that the article says would raise red flags if it were made today.
Three’s Company and stereotypes
Three’s Company ran on ABC for eight seasons, from 1977 to 1984. Florist Janet and secretary Chrissy share an apartment in Santa Monica, then invite culinary student Jack to move in after their roommate leaves.
Their landlord objects to unmarried men and women living together, so they claim Jack is gay. The story relies on that deception, and the series has been criticized for harmful LGBTQ+ stereotypes, poor jokes and its treatment of women.
Charles in Charge behind scenes
Charles in Charge aired on CBS for five seasons, from 1984 to 1990. Scott Baio played Charles, a 19-year-old who lived with the wealthy Pembroke family while attending school and looking after their children.
The premise raises questions about a young man caring for children and, later, a high school girl. The show’s legacy is further complicated by allegations of sexual harassment made by two young co-stars against Baio during the series’ run.
Diff’rent Strokes and difficult subjects
Diff’rent Strokes aired on NBC and ABC for eight seasons, from 1978 to 1986. Brothers Arnold and Willis move from Harlem into the Park Avenue home of the wealthy Drummond family after their mother dies. Their mother had worked as the family’s housekeeper.
The sitcom addressed racism, abuse and substance-use disorder, but its approach was not always considered appropriate. The article also says the show has been called a “white savior” story, though the available text ends before explaining that criticism.
Key points
- Growing Pains made Carol the target of weight-related jokes after Tracey Gold gained weight.
- Three’s Company used Jack’s false claim of being gay as a central plot device.
- Two young Charles in Charge co-stars accused Scott Baio of sexual harassment during the show’s run.
- Diff’rent Strokes tackled serious issues, but its handling of them drew criticism.