Growing Up As A 90's Kid, You Likely Witnessed These Dark TV Moments But Didn't Quite Catch Them
16 deep-diving TV moments that many of us probably didn't understand until adulthood.
It's well known that movies and TV often drop subtle hints about serious issues. They are not just entertainment; they are art, perhaps even more so. Therefore, it's no real surprise that heavy themes can be found within them, if only your eyes are open enough to pick up the breadcrumbs. This article may even come with a minor trigger warning; if you're easily triggered, let it be known now that there may be content here that could unsettle you. Of course, we don't want that, so if this is even somewhat of an issue for you, I wouldn't blame you for turning back now. In fact, I encourage you to do exactly that.
Last warning: heavy themes ahead.
1. Lizzie McGuire hints at eating disorders.
2. Saved By The Bell and caffeine addiction through pills.
3. Full House and their roundabout way of addressing parental physical abuse.
4. Boy Meets World and physical abuse.
5. Full House and body image issues leading to eating disorders.
6. Boy Meets World hits the nail hard on grief and how it affects you.
7. Glee steps up and speaks about death.
8. Home Improvement's spotlight on existential crises; I think it's something every kid goes through too.
9. Glee and their school lockdown highlights many real fears of school shootings.
10. Full House and how they incorporated the dangers of drunk driving.
11. Boy Meets World hits two for one: cults and their manipulation, and toxic masculinity.
12. Hey Arnold hits you in your feels about segregation and being separated from your child. Never giving up.
13. Family Matters speaks out about racism.
14. Fresh Prince of Bel-Air gives the perfect example of gun violence and how fear can lead to poor decision-making.
15. Smart Guy and pedophiles: how easy it is to become a target.
16. That's So Raven highlighted the reality of racism and provided an example of how it still exists today.
I have to say, I watched all of these shows as a kid, and there are a few I can remember fully grasping the reasons behind them, but definitely not all of them. As a mom myself now, especially of two biracial boys, these fears are very much still prominent and are things I think about every single day. I know that as they grow up, it will only become more intense. We have to look out for each other, folks. We must band together as one; it's the only way we can't be broken.
If you can think of any more to add, please let us know in the comments! In the meantime, please, please, PLEASE be aware of your surroundings and make it your mission to notice things when they're certainly not alright, and never be afraid to stand up for someone else. You may be the only one who does. <3
