Why an episode of The Golden Girls was removed in 2020

In 2020, an episode of the beloved sitcom The Golden Girls was removed from streaming platforms, sparking a wave of discussion and debate. The episode in question, titled “The Return of Barry Gordon,” was originally aired in 1988 during the show’s fifth season. This decision to pull the episode raised questions about its content and the cultural context in which it was created.

The Controversy

The episode was removed because it contained a scene where the four main characters – Dorothy, Rose, Blanche, and Sophia – are seen engaging in a “mud bath” scene. While nothing explicit or offensive takes place, the sequence features a scene where the characters, in a humorous attempt to look young and revitalized, have their bodies covered in mud. In the scene, the characters were depicted as engaging in what is widely considered to be an act of cultural appropriation: a ritual from some Indigenous cultures known as “Native American healing practices,” in this case, using mud to restore health.

The controversy began to grow as some viewers and cultural critics argued that the representation was insensitive, reinforcing stereotypes and misusing cultural traditions for comedic effect. The decision to pull the episode was part of an ongoing reckoning within Hollywood over how cultural practices, particularly those of marginalized groups, are represented on screen.

The Response from Streaming Platforms and Networks

In 2020, streaming platforms and networks that broadcast The Golden Girls, including Hulu and the show’s syndication providers, began reviewing content more critically. This scrutiny was heightened by the global social justice movements, such as Black Lives Matter, and growing conversations about the responsibility of media in representing diverse cultures with respect.

After conducting a review, the streaming platforms made the decision to remove “The Return of Barry Gordon” from circulation. Although the episode remains a fan favorite for many, it is no longer available for streaming, and it has led to significant conversations about representation and sensitivity in classic sitcoms.

The Context of The Golden Girls

While The Golden Girls is widely regarded as a trailblazer in terms of its progressive treatment of older women, LGBTQ+ issues, and its portrayal of diverse experiences, the show was not without its problematic moments. Several episodes over the years have sparked debate for including stereotypes or outdated views, and the “mud bath” incident was one of the more significant ones when revisited in the context of modern cultural standards.

However, it’s important to note that The Golden Girls also received praise for addressing important social issues like racism, homophobia, and ageism, often through humor. The show’s characters frequently found themselves navigating complex and sometimes uncomfortable societal issues, and in many instances, its scriptwriters allowed room for self-reflection and growth.

Why This Matter Today

The removal of this episode highlights how the landscape of television and entertainment has evolved, with increased awareness around cultural sensitivity. As more people become aware of the impact of cultural appropriation and the need for respect toward marginalized groups, companies are now more cautious in what content they distribute.

For many, this move was seen as necessary to preserve the show’s legacy while acknowledging the importance of modern-day cultural awareness. Although the episode’s removal is symbolic of a larger shift, it also brings to light the challenge of reconciling beloved works with contemporary standards.

The removal of “The Return of Barry Gordon” serves as a reminder of how entertainment and culture evolve, and how institutions like streaming platforms are adapting to reflect more inclusive and respectful representations. It is a reflection of a broader shift in entertainment, where there is more sensitivity and awareness in how certain themes, such as cultural practices, are depicted.

While The Golden Girls continues to be celebrated for its boldness, humor, and progressive spirit, the removal of this episode underscores that even the most beloved shows must sometimes reckon with their past to ensure that they are still relevant and respectful in today’s diverse cultural landscape.