18 Movies and TV Shows That Aged Worse Than Room Temperature Milk

In a nod to the evolving landscape of social norms and sensitivity, many films and television shows from earlier decades are now being scrutinized through a modern lens, revealing instances of cringe-worthy content that simply don’t hold up today. As part of an engaging discussion on BuzzFeed, viewers weighed in on the classics they once loved but now find deeply problematic.

Here's a look at some of the most glaring offenders:

1. Beauty and the Beast

Love stories can often mask troubling themes, and this Disney classic is no exception. Critics argue that it essentially revolves around Stockholm syndrome, where a captive begins to develop feelings for their captor.

2. Grease

This beloved musical suffers upon reexamination due to its normalization of inappropriate behavior, such as a character groping girls at school. Many now see it as an endorsement of toxic masculinity.

3. The Taming of the Shrew adaptations

Countless adaptations of this Shakespearean play have left audiences uncomfortable with their glorification of the humiliation and domination of strong-willed women.

4. Pretty Woman

At first glance a fairytale romance, revisiting this film can leave viewers unsettled, especially scenes that reinforce the idea of women needing a 'white knight' for salvation rather than emphasizing their autonomy.

5. Scrubs

A show that once entertained many, now faces criticism for its frequent and dismissive portrayals of sexual harassment, particularly elements that viewers feel trivialized serious issues.

6. The King of Queens

Attempts to watch this sitcom can be abruptly halted by outdated jokes about body image and weight that would certainly raise eyebrows today.

7. Gilmore Girls

While lauded for its witty dialogue and strong female leads, the show features casual use of offensive language that feels jarring in today’s conversational landscape.

8. Zoey 101

The nostalgia factor quickly fizzles out upon rewatching, thanks to its dated gender dynamics and cringe-inducing character portrayals.

9. The Golden Girls

Fondly remembered for its humor, the show nonetheless reveals an episode that harshly critiques Robin Givens for her allegations against Mike Tyson, underscoring a dangerous narrative around victim blaming.

10. Blank Check

This Disney film, while a favorite from childhood, now raises concerns over the depiction of an adult having romantic ties with a pre-teen—a plot twist that leaves viewers scratching their heads.

11. Lost

With spin-off discussions and devoted fanbases, even iconic shows have not escaped criticism. Elements like the main character's dismissiveness toward female characters' medical struggles have not aged well.

12. I Love Lucy

Though groundbreaking in many ways, certain plot points reinforce stereotypes about gender roles, leaving modern audiences rethinking its humor.

13. John Wayne's Movies

Celebrated for their classic Americana, the problematic nature of many John Wayne films reveals a darker side to a seemingly charming Hollywood icon, prompting contemporary viewers to reassess their ratings.

14. Sex and the City

Celebrated as a bold exploration of women’s lives, some episodes now feel clumsily insensitive towards LGBTQ+ issues, raising eyebrows about how the show's messages resonate in the current climate.

15. M*A*S*H

While critically acclaimed for its commentary on war, the series also exhibited troubling gender dynamics embedded in comedic plots, resulting in a mixed legacy.

16. How I Met Your Mother

With its ensemble cast's often toxic interactions and a character who embodies problematic traits, many feel it's hard to see this show appealing to new viewers today.

17. The IT Crowd

Frequently criticized for its clichés and sexual jokes, certain episodes have come to represent outdated sensibilities that have no place in contemporary media.

18. Friends

Despite its status as an iconic sitcom, the series has garnered backlash for its frequent instances of homophobia, transphobia, and lack of diversity—elements that clash with current societal values.

The conversation about our favorite childhood movies and television shows continues to evolve, and it's essential to critically re-evaluate these past productions. Which classics from your youth do you think have aged worst? Share your thoughts!