Sitcoms have long been regarded as a pastime many enjoy. They help us unwind, laugh, and unplug from the realities of everyday life, if only for a little bit. As the times change, so does what one considers humorous. Sitcoms that were once thought to be pushing boundaries and iconic, with a simple rewatch, one can see that they did not age well. Numerous ideas about what was funny in the past would not fly today. Although many of these shows air on reruns, the audience’s reception of them is more negative than positive in today’s society, landing them on the list of sitcoms that would not be made today.
Television shows depict what is widely accepted during the time period they are aired, and certain ideals and prejudices are reinforced through the shows. However, in today’s culture, a top priority is diversity and acceptance. This means that even some shows that aired 20 years ago may not be green-lit today.
While every person’s taste varies, the sitcoms on this list are controversial for several reasons, including themes of abuse, bigotry, sexism, and more. (Read our list of classic tv shows that no one remembers anymore.)
To compile a list of sitcoms that would not be made today, 24/7 Tempo consulted several entertainment websites and forums. This allowed us to gather a list of sitcoms that the majority of society finds crude, offensive, or that did not age well.
“All in the Family”
- Years it ran: 1971 to 1979
- Why it wouldn’t be made today: Archie was racist and bigoted. he was also a sexist.
“All in the Family” was considered a comedic sitcom that pushed the boundaries and was ahead of its time. For this reason, Archie Bunker became a loved or, at the very least, tolerated character during the 1970s. Upon a rewatch, it becomes clear that although Archie Bunker was a product of his environment, he was still a bigot. Today, it is difficult to watch anyone, whether ignorantly or not, being an apparent racist and sexist. For this reason, “All in the Family” lands on the list of sitcoms that would not be made today.
Through the series, though, Archie was influenced by his wife Edith and those around him to become softer and develop an open mind. However, with the apparent bigotry, “All in the Family” would not be green-lit today.
“Married… With Children”
- Years it ran: 1987 to 1997
- Why it wouldn’t be made today: Rude, crude humor.
“Married… With Children” is a show that people either love or can’t stand. Al Bundy is not a great person; his crude humor, which often includes belittling someone, is mean-spirited. The show is riddled with fat jokes, instances of misogyny, and objectification of women. Although it was once said that “Married… With Children” was meant to be a show “where no one will learn anything while watching it,” the lack of sensitivity is cringe-worthy.
“The Honeymooners'”
- Years it ran: 1955 to 1956
- Why it wouldn’t be made today: Themes of sexism and abusive behavior.
“The Honeymooners” aired for one season from 1955 to 1956. While it didn’t last long, unfortunately, the catchphrases of Ralph Kramden have stuck around in one’s memory. These were threats to his wife, such as “One of these days, Alice, pow! right in the kisser” and “Bang! Zoom! To the moon, Alice, to the moon.”
While, at the time, these lines were meant to be comedic, they fall flat today. “The Honeymooners” is riddled with abusive themes towards women that are insensitive and honestly downright dangerous.
“King of Queens “
- Years it ran: 1998 to 2007
- Why it wouldn’t be made today: Themes of stereotypical jokes.
“King of Queens” didn’t go off the air until 2007; however, despite the short time frame from today, it has not aged well. For starters, the dry humor is full of homophobic jokes and racial stereotypes. Additionally, the relationship between Doug and Carrie can be seen as problematic. Doug refuses to work on personal growth, often going to great lengths to manipulate his wife and keep her from thriving. Additionally, Carrie comes across as manipulative as well, using fear to control her husband.
Unless the show had a complete overhaul, it wouldn’t last on air today.
“Seinfeld”
- Years it ran: 1989 to 1998
- Why it wouldn’t be made today: The use of cringe humor.
“Seinfeld” was a sitcom about nothing that lasted for almost ten years. While the jokes were thought humorous at the time, today, they are more cringe-worthy than anything. Additionally, the cast has a lack of diversity, which is something that is valued today.
“The Big Bang Theory”
- Years it ran: 2007 to 2019
- Why it wouldn’t be made today: Themes of misogyny, homophobia, and racism.
“The Big Bang Theory” kept people laughing with the constant antics of Sheldon, Leonard, Raj, and Howard. However, today, this sitcom would have a difficult time getting green-lit for a variety of reasons. For starters, strong themes of misogyny were present throughout the show’s run. These are often displayed in Leonard’s lust for Penny and the objectification of women from the main guy friends.
Additionally, the show also relies on offensive jokes that are often homophobic, racist, or sexist.
“Saved By the Bell”
- Years it ran: 1989 to 1993
- Why it wouldn’t be made today: Zack Morris’ behavior is problematic.
One of the main reasons “Saved By the Bell” wouldn’t be made today is because of Zack Morris’ behavior. Though he is supposed to come across as a lovable and charming boy, upon a rewatch, he is seen as more of a creep. In one episode, he tries to pimp out Lisa (having boys pay to kiss her) under the disguise of helping her. Often, Zach steamrolls past the girls’ consent to do one of his cringy plans.
Additionally, the treatment of Screech in the series (why did he stay friends with these guys?) was also problematic. The series also had its share of disability jokes, racism, and sexism.
“Scrubs”
- Years it ran: 2001 to 2010
- Why it wouldn’t be made today: Themes of homophobia, sexism, and lack of diversity.
“Scrubs” was a show many loved to tune into during its run. However, today, it’s easy to see the lack of diversity. Furthermore, themes of homophobia and sexism are apparent through jokes and prejudices exhibited on the show. As society today values diversity, inclusion, and sensitivity, “Scrubs” would be hard-pressed to receive a green light.
“How I Met Your Mother”
- Years it ran: 2005 to 2014
- Why it wouldn’t be made today: Themes of relying on insensitive jokes.
Barney Stenson is one of the most problematic characters in “How I Met Your Mother.” Although he is not the only one, he doesn’t seem to care that his jokes are sometimes downright offensive. They are often homophobic, racist, or misogynistic, all for a cringy laugh. Today, the humor in “How I Met Your Mother” is outdated and wouldn’t resonate with a large audience.
“Bosom Buddies”
- Years it ran: 1980 to 1982
- Why it wouldn’t be made today: The premise of two men pretending to be women is outdated.
“Bosom Buddies” starring Tom Hanks and Peter Scolari, follows two men pretending to be women to steal an apartment from actual women. Though at the time it was thought funny, today it is simply offensive and insulting to the LGBTQ community. Additionally, stealing a rent-reduced apartment for women from women simply because they wanted it is a pretty low thing to do. Therefore, the premise of the show wouldn’t hold up today.
“Three’s Company”
- Years it ran: 1977 to 1984
- Why it wouldn’t be made today: Reliance on insensitive jokes.
“Three’s Company” is about a man who moves into a house with two women to save on rent. However, the landlord is not happy that a straight man is moving in with two straight women, so the trio decides to pretend that John Ritter’s character is gay.
The premise is outdated for a few reasons. It’s offensive to pretend one is gay when they aren’t. The show is full of homophobic jokes that are insensitive. Furthermore, why should a landlord care about these people’s living situations? As long as they aren’t disruptive and are paying rent on time, why does it matter their sexual orientation?
“I Dream of Jeannie”
- Years it ran: 1965 to 1970
- Why it wouldn’t be made today: Themes of sexism and stereotypes.
“I Dream of Jeannie” is controversial today because of its depiction and stereotypes of Arabs and Muslims. Additionally, themes of sexism are apparent throughout the show. The Jeannie and Tony relationship comes across as a master/slave relationship, which is very cringe-worthy.
“That ’70s Show”
- Years it ran: 1998 to 2006
- Why it wouldn’t be made today: Themes of racism and stereotypes.
“That 70s Show” depicted life in the 1970s, and while there was probably some truth behind the characterization, there were problematic aspects of the show. For starters, the main group’s treatment of FEZ is troublesome. He typically feels like an outsider, and they never use his real name. Additionally, throughout the show, the characters use racist, ageist, and sexist jokes for humor. While many found them funny then, today, these jokes are thought insensitive.
“Friends”
- Years it ran: 1994 to 2004
- Why it wouldn’t be made today: There is a lack of diversity within the core group.
“Friends” is a show many people still love to binge-watch today. However, the show is often criticized because of its lack of diversity. Furthermore, some of the jokes can come across as offensive throughout the series. For instance, young Monica is often the subject of ridicule for her weight, and her friends even fat-shame her for it.
“Gilligan’s Island”
- Years it ran: 1964 to 1967
- Why it wouldn’t be made today: Cultural stereotypes and depiction of women.
“Gilligan’s Island” was a television show about seven shipwrecked people. Throughout the show, there are cultural stereotypes. In fact, during reruns, a disclaimer is now used stating that the show depicts outdated stereotypes. Also, the portrayal of women on the show can be offensive. Often, they are shown as superficial and unable to do anything on their own, always needing a man’s help. Today, sexism and cultural stereotypes are hard to watch.
“Sanford and Son”
- Years it ran: 1972 to 1977
- Why it wouldn’t be made today: It is not based on black realities.
“Sanford and Son’ was a television show based on the British TV series “Steptoe and Son,” about a white son and father who owned a junkyard business. However, it’s not possible to take a show about a white family, replace it with a black family, and think it’s one and the same. “Sanford and Son” was not based on black realities. It also relied heavily on insensitive humor and racial stereotypes. It is important to display diversity and inclusivity within a television show; however, “Sanford and Son” failed to depict Black American realities and used offensive language.
“The Brady Bunch”
- Years it ran: 1969 to 1974
- Why it wouldn’t be made today: Themes of misogyny and sexism.
“The Brady Bunch” was another beloved sitcom many loved watching during the early ’70s. Even now, many enjoy reruns of this old classic.
However, the depiction of the nuclear family within “The Brady Bunch” would not be well received today. First, the themes of gender roles and misogyny are outdated by today’s standards. Boys have certain ideals about what girls can and cannot do, which their father often encourages. For example, in one episode, Peter becomes upset when a female doctor tries to examine him. His response was, “Women are nurses.”
Additionally, in their attempt to create a home where togetherness is valued, Mike and Carol skip right over the lessons that teach their children individuality and uniqueness, which are traits to strive for.
“I Love Lucy”
- Years it ran: 1951 to 1957
- Why it wouldn’t be made today: Themes of abuse.
“I Love Lucy” was a classic sitcom that audiences still love to watch today. Lucille Ball was iconic in her role, pushing back against the ideals of the stereotypical role of a housewife. However, there are aspects of this show that are controversial. Lucy’s husband, Ricky Ricardo, often comments that he spanks Lucy when she does something that he doesn’t like. This act was shown in one episode, “Ricky Loses His Temper.”
This portrayal of marriage is outdated and troublesome. Lucy lacks autonomy and the ability to make her own decisions without the fear of upsetting her husband. Therefore, the marriage displayed in “I Love Lucy” was not a healthy depiction and wouldn’t work today.
“Babes”
- Years it ran: 1990 to 1991
- Why it wouldn’t be made today: Insensitive themes throughout the premise.
“Babes” was a show that aired for only one season in 1990 and 1991. It was about three sisters who navigate life in New York City and share an apartment together. Oh, and they are overweight. The theme of being overweight was apparent throughout the series, with jokes that were often fat shaming. The show didn’t do well in ratings, and it’s no wonder. Today, this show most likely wouldn’t even get a green light because of the heavy reliance on appearance and insensitivity towards one’s personal struggles.
“Home Improvement”
- Years it ran: 1991 to 1999
- Why it wouldn’t be made today: Gender role stereotypes and sexism.
Tim “the tool man” Taylor was a comedic television personality portrayed on “Home Improvement.” However, while some audiences at the time found his humor enjoyable, it can come across as offensive today. Tim Taylor often displays his belief in gender roles, sometimes going as far as belittling his sons if they participate in an activity deemed less than “manly.” For example, in one episode, Randy tells his dad that he has to prance for a school play, to which his father replies, “Men don’t prance.”
Furthermore, Tim persistently teases his co-worker Al, who should’ve left the job long ago. However funny Tim “the tool man” Taylor is to some, if this show were to air today, it most likely wouldn’t have the same reception. (Now, read our list of the most popular all-time tv shows among millennials.)