12 Things Today’s TV Shows Get Seriously Wrong About Boomers
They’re the generation that brought us Woodstock and the moon landing, the rise of the personal computer, and the fight for social justice. But how well do we truly understand the Baby Boomers (born roughly 1946-1964)? From martini-swilling ad execs to clueless tech novices, TV portrays them in a hilariously narrow light. But what if we told you that Hollywood’s idea of a Boomer is about as accurate as a rotary phone in the age of smartphones? Join us on a journey to debunk the wildest Boomer stereotypes perpetuated by our favorite TV shows, and you’ll see what we mean.
Mad Men (1960-2015)
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The advertising world of “Mad Men” might have you believing all Baby Boomers are martini-swilling ad execs. But guess what? Reality is far more diverse. Boomers were a generation of activists, educators, and artists who actively challenged the status quo.
Grace and Frankie (2015-2022)
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This heartwarming comedy features two women navigating divorce in their 70s. While divorce rates did increase among Boomers, it wasn’t a defining characteristic for the entire generation. According to the Pew Research Center, Boomers are actually the most married generation over 65.
Friends (1994-2004)
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Remember Monica and Chandler’s parents on “Friends”? Totally clueless about technology, right? Wrong! AARP reports that Boomers are the fastest-growing demographic of smartphone users.
The Big Bang Theory (2007-2019)
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Sheldon’s disdain for Meemaw’s love of sci-fi in “Big Bang Theory” is a huge stretch. Comic-Con thrives thanks in part to Boomers who grew up on a healthy dose of superheroes and science fiction.
Murphy Brown (1988-2018)
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Murphy Brown’s portrayal of a strong, single career woman was groundbreaking for television. However, Boomers are a varied bunch. Many women prioritized family over career, and feminism wasn’t a monolithic movement within the generation.
This Is Us (2016-2022)
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The Pearson family drama portrays some self-absorbed Boomer parents. However, according to the Corporation for National Service, Boomers are also the generation most involved in volunteering.
Schitt’s Creek (2015-2020)
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Watching the Rose family struggle in a small town on “Schitt’s Creek” might suggest Boomers are inflexible. However, many Boomers embraced social change and new experiences throughout their lives.
Gilmore Girls (2000-2007)
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Lorelai’s strained relationship with her traditional mother in “Gilmore Girls” reinforces a stereotype. Boomers were known for questioning societal norms, not just upholding them.
The Goldbergs (2013-Present)
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Beverly Goldberg’s musical tastes in “The Goldbergs” are stuck in the 1970s, but boomers embraced a wide variety of music genres throughout their lives.
Modern Family (2009-2020)
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Phil Dunphy’s awkward attempts to connect with his kids in “Modern Family” make him seem clueless. However, Boomers are a significant part of the modern family unit, often helping with childcare and providing support.
Seinfeld (1989-1998)
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The self-centered characters on “Seinfeld” might lead you to believe Boomers are all like that. But Boomers championed social justice movements and fought for change.
House of Cards (2013-2018)
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Frank Underwood’s ruthless pursuit of political dominance in “House of Cards” isn’t representative of all Boomers. Many of them actually advocated for progressive policies and social change.\
Frasier (1993-2004)
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Dr. Frasier Crane (Kelsey Grammer) often embodies the stereotype of the out-of-touch, elitist Boomer intellectual. However, Boomers are a diverse group with a wide range of political and social views.
Everybody Loves Raymond (1996-2005)
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Ray Barone’s (Ray Romano) constant tension with his overbearing parents, Frank (Robert Costanzo) and Marie (Patricia Heaton), reinforces the stereotype of Boomers as meddling and intrusive. Reality shows a more nuanced picture, with many Boomers actively involved in supporting their adult children and grandchildren.
The Golden Girls (1985-1992)
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While groundbreaking for its portrayal of active and independent older women, this beloved sitcom reinforces the stereotype of Boomers being primarily interested in leisure activities and reminiscing about the past. In reality, Boomers are highly engaged in volunteering, social justice movements, and continuing education.