The Enduring Appeal of Past Television Shows
Whatever happened to predictability? The milkman, the paperboy, evening TV? Everywhere you look, there’s another TV reunion. From Super Bowl commercials featuring casts of shows like “Full House” and “Seinfeld” to full-blown reboots like “Scrubs” and the highly anticipated “Girl Meets World,” old castmates are reuniting left and right. While a part of us might find this nostalgic, a larger part might be feeling a sense of fatigue.
Shows like “Full House” were undeniably popular in their time. Many of us grew up watching reruns on TGIF. However, attempting to watch an episode today might feel dated, despite the moral dilemmas the characters faced. These weren’t bad shows, they’re just products of their time. While they were successful in the ’90s, it’s a new era, and audiences have moved on.
A promotional cutout of comedian Eric Oliver.
The constant hype and build-up surrounding these reunions often contribute to the disappointment. The “Seinfeld” reunion promo during the Super Bowl, featuring Jerry Seinfeld, Jason Alexander, and Larry David, was a prime example. Despite the excitement surrounding the reunion, it ultimately fell flat for many viewers. It felt less like a genuine reunion and more like a shameless plug for Jerry Seinfeld’s web series, “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee.”
These Past Television Shows undeniably had their moment. They entertained and amused audiences for years. However, it’s important to recognize when a show has run its course. While shows like “Full House” and “Seinfeld” hold a special place in our hearts, there are countless quality shows available today that cater to modern audiences.
Our favorite shows have a shelf life. “Full House,” “Seinfeld,” “Boy Meets World,” and even “Scrubs,” were all excellent in their prime. However, attempts to revamp or reunite often diminish the original allure. Sometimes, it’s best to leave the past in the past. It’s time to say goodbye to the familiar faces of past television and embrace the new era of entertainment.
