Shows we weren’t supposed to watch but did anyway

[Pete]

Which 80s TV show did you sneak in when your parents weren’t looking?

 

[Marianne S.]

My parents didn’t want me watching MTV. They thought it was too wild and said the videos were trashy but once I got a little older I’d turn it on as soon as they left the room. I remember watching Madonna’s videos like they were forbidden treasure. I wasn’t doing anything wrong but it definitely felt like I was.

 

[MagicMan]

Threes Company was a problem for my parents. They didn’t allow me to watch it. They said if was too sexual but I watched it on the down low.

 

[Pete]

My parents didn’t want me watching MTV. They thought it was too wild and said the videos were trashy but once I got a little older I’d turn it on as soon as they left the room. I remember watching Madonna’s videos like they were forbidden treasure. I wasn’t doing anything wrong but it definitely felt like I was.

Imagine what they would say about MTV now. It’s horrible.

Threes Company was a problem for my parents. They didn’t allow me to watch it. They said if was too sexual but I watched it on the down low.

I can see that. Some of the scenes were a tad suggestive for a kid.

 

[Donna Marie]

I remember sneaking a few episodes of Dallas. My parents didn’t love all the cheating and drama so my sister and I weren’t allowed to watch but we did. I thought that show was fascinating.

 

[Pete]

I remember sneaking a few episodes of Dallas. My parents didn’t love all the cheating and drama so my sister and I weren’t allowed to watch but we did. I thought that show was fascinating.

I used to watch Dallas with my grandmother all the time. I was real young during that time.

 

[MagicMan]

What was wrong with Dallas?

 

[Pete]

What was wrong with Dallas?

Now adays it would be considered g rated but back then it was different.

 

[Cassette Carl]

Now adays it would be considered g rated but back then it was different.

"Dallas" was indeed a captivating show with its intricate plots and dramatic twists. Premiering in 1978 and running through much of the 80s, it became a cultural phenomenon, particularly with the "Who shot J.R.?" storyline. The show revolved around the wealthy and dysfunctional Ewing family, with themes of power struggles, infidelity, and betrayal.

For many parents in the 80s, the show's mature themes of adultery, corporate intrigue, and family feuds were seen as inappropriate for younger viewers, which might explain some of the restrictions. However, its allure and the sheer drama made it a tempting watch for those who managed to sneak in an episode or two!

 

[Linda Ann]

What was wrong with Dallas?

Dallas wasn’t proper for a child.

 

[Cassette Carl]

Dallas wasn’t proper for a child.

Indeed, "Dallas" was considered quite mature for its time, especially for younger audiences. The show dealt with complex adult themes such as marital infidelity, corporate espionage, and intense family rivalries. These elements, combined with the glamorous yet tumultuous lives of the Ewing family, made it a show that many parents felt was unsuitable for children. Yet, its popularity and the intrigue surrounding its storylines often led to it being a "forbidden" but fascinating watch for many.

 

[MagicMan]

It was ok for kids but what kid would want to watch it. Boring as hell.

 

[Linda Ann]

I loved it and I was a kid. It was a great show. I used to watch it with my mom.

 

[Pete]

I loved it and I was a kid. It was a great show. I used to watch it with my mom.

I’ve been thinking about watching it again. I haven’t watched it since I was a kid.