19 TV Series from the ’80s That Would Face Criticism for Cultural Insensitivity Today
The 1980s transformed the television industry with advancements in technology and creative content. Shows experimented with innovative storylines and character development, resulting in memorable shows. However, many beloved series from the ’80s would face criticism today for their cultural insensitivity, including racial stereotypes, misogynistic humor, and homophobic jokes. Here are 19 such series:
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The Dukes of Hazzard (1979-1985)
The Dukes of Hazzard featured the Confederate flag prominently on the roof of the car, symbolizing a painful history of racism and slavery. In addition, characters occasionally used derogatory language when referring to African Americans, reinforcing harmful stereotypes. One scene where the Duke boys refer to a black sheriff using a pejorative term would certainly not pass without severe backlash today.
M*A*S*H (1972-1983)
Despite its anti-war stance, M*A*S*H occasionally featured culturally insensitive jokes about Korean and Vietnamese people. For example, in one episode, Hawkeye makes a joke about eating dogs, playing into offensive stereotypes about Asian cultures. Although considered harmless at the time, such humor perpetuates negative cultural stereotypes that are unacceptable today.
Gilligan’s Island (1964-1967, reruns into the ’80s)
Gilligan’s Island often portrayed non-Western characters using stereotypes. For instance, in one episode, a group of “natives” is depicted as primitive and superstitious, complete with exaggerated accents and tribal music. Such depictions reduce entire cultures to caricatures, a practice that would be widely condemned in today’s media landscape.
Different Strokes (1978-1986)
Different Strokes was celebrated for addressing serious social issues but also relied on stereotypes for humor. In one episode, Arnold and Willis are depicted as having a natural inclination towards basketball and rap, reinforcing racial stereotypes about African Americans. These simplistic characterizations are criticized today for their lack of depth and sensitivity.
The A-Team (1983-1987)
The A-Team featured Mr. T’s character, BA. Baracus, who was often portrayed as an aggressive and brutal African American man, is a stereotype that reinforces negative perceptions. In one scene, BA aggressively confronts a group of police officers, a depiction that plays into the “angry black man” trope. Modern audiences would likely find this characterization problematic and reductive.
Three’s Company (1977-1984)
Three’s Company frequently used homophobic humor. Jack Tripper pretends to be gay to live with two women, and many jokes revolve around this premise. In one episode, Mr. Roper makes a series of derogatory remarks about Jack’s supposed sexuality, including calling him a “fairy.” Such jokes, relying on outdated and offensive stereotypes about LGBTQ+ individuals, would be widely condemned today.
Benson (1979-1986)
Benson was groundbreaking in many ways but occasionally leaned on racial stereotypes for humor. In one episode, Benson is shown to be inexplicably good at sports and dancing, playing into stereotypes about African Americans. While intended to be humorous, such portrayals reduce characters to a narrow set of characteristics based on race.
The Cosby Show (1984-1992)
While initially praised for its positive portrayal of an African American family, the show sometimes portrayed women in traditional roles that could be considered limiting today. For instance, Claire Huxtable is often seen managing the household and children as a successful lawyer, but the emphasis on her domestic role can feel outdated.
Married… with Children (1987-1997)
This show frequently used sexist humor, with Al Bundy often making derogatory remarks about women, including his wife, Peggy. In one episode, Al jokes about women’s intelligence and their place in the kitchen, reflecting attitudes that are now considered highly offensive. The portrayal of women as nags or sex objects would not be acceptable in today’s more progressive media environment.
Alf (1986-1990)
The alien character ALF often made jokes that could be seen as culturally insensitive. In one episode, ALF compares the human diet to that of his alien species in a way that mocks different cultural food practices. This kind of humor, trivializing and exoticizing cultural differences, would face criticism for insensitivity.
The Facts of Life (1979-1988)
Although it addressed important social issues, The Facts of Life sometimes relied on stereotypes. In one episode, a character from a Hispanic background is depicted with a heavy accent and exaggerated mannerisms, reinforcing ethnic stereotypes. Modern audiences would likely criticize these portrayals for lacking authenticity and respect for the character’s cultural background.
Magnum, P.I. (1980-1988)
Magnum, PI often featured stereotypical depictions of Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander cultures. In one episode, indigenous characters are shown engaging in “primitive” rituals that are portrayed as mysterious and otherworldly. Such depictions play into harmful stereotypes about indigenous peoples and their traditions, which would be heavily criticized today.
Knight Rider (1982-1986)
Despite its futuristic theme, Knight Rider included racially insensitive storylines. For instance, an episode features a villainous gang depicted using Latino stereotypes, including exaggerated accents and criminal behavior. This portrayal perpetuates negative stereotypes about Latino communities and would be seen as culturally insensitive by today’s standards.
Miami Vice (1984-1990)
Miami Vice, known for its stylish aesthetics, often portrayed minorities negatively. Many episodes featured African American and Latino characters as drug dealers or criminals, reinforcing harmful stereotypes. For instance, the character of Calderone, a recurring drug lord, embodies negative stereotypes about Latino men. Such depictions would be criticized for perpetuating racial biases.
Cheers (1982-1993)
Cheers occasionally relied on stereotypes for humor, particularly its portrayal of minority characters. In one episode, Carla’s ex-husband, who is Italian, is depicted with numerous clichés, including references to the mafia. These portrayals would be criticized today for reinforcing negative ethnic stereotypes and failing to provide a nuanced representation of diverse characters.
Family Ties (1982-1989)
Family Ties sometimes used stereotypes for comedic effect, particularly regarding LGBTQ+ characters. In one episode, a character’s homosexuality is played for laughs, with other characters reacting in exaggerated ways. Such humor, which trivializes and mocks LGBTQ+ identities, would be seen as insensitive and offensive by contemporary audiences.
The Jeffersons (1975-1985)
While The Jeffersons was praised for portraying an affluent African American family, it occasionally relied on stereotypes for humor. George Jefferson’s character often made exaggerated, stereotypical remarks about other ethnicities, including calling Asians “Chinks” and making jokes about their work ethic. These instances would draw significant criticism for their use of racial slurs and perpetuation of harmful stereotypes.
The Love Boat (1977-1986)
The Love Boat featured culturally insensitive portrayals of characters from diverse backgrounds. In one episode, an Asian character is depicted with exaggerated features and a thick accent, engaging in behavior that plays into stereotypes about Asian men. Such portrayals reduce characters to simplistic caricatures, which would not be acceptable today.
MacGyver (1985-1992)
MacGyver occasionally featured racially insensitive storylines and characters. In one episode, indigenous people are depicted as primitive and superstitious, relying on MacGyver’s modern knowledge to solve their problems. This portrayal reinforces colonialist stereotypes about indigenous cultures and would be criticized for its lack of cultural sensitivity and respect.
