10 Unforgettable 'Very Special Episodes' That Shaped a Generation

The Era of 'Very Special Episodes'

In the 1970s and 1980s, sitcoms ruled television. These shows provided comfort and laughter, becoming a weekly ritual for many families. However, as the genre evolved, a new trend emerged - the 'very special episode'. These episodes departed from the usual lighthearted fare to address serious social issues, often leaving a lasting impact on viewers, especially young ones.

Let's take a journey through 10 of the most memorable and impactful 'very special episodes' that shaped a generation of viewers.

1. Webster - "The Uh-Oh Feeling"

Webster, a sitcom about a former pro football player and his wife adopting their godchild after his parents' death, tackled the sensitive topic of child molestation in this episode.

The story revolves around Webster overhearing his classmate Beth being inappropriately touched by their math tutor, Mr. Todson. The episode carefully navigates the subject, showing Webster's confusion and fear about what he witnessed.

Key moments include:

• Webster's internal struggle with keeping a secret
• His parents' supportive reaction when he finally tells them
• A therapist explaining to Webster's class about good, bad, and confusing touches

While the episode may seem somewhat dated now, it provided valuable information to young viewers about recognizing and reporting abuse.

2. Silver Spoons - "Spare the Rod"

Silver Spoons, known for its portrayal of a wealthy, eccentric father and his son, took on the serious issue of child abuse in this episode.

The plot centers around Ricky's friend Toby, who reveals he's being physically abused by his father. The episode handles the topic with care, showing the complexities of the situation:

• Toby's initial lies about his injuries
• His belief that the abuse is his fault
• The confrontation between Mr. Stratton and Toby's father

The episode ends on a hopeful note, with Toby's father agreeing to seek help and Toby going to live with his aunt. It sent a powerful message about speaking up against abuse and seeking help.

3. Full House - "Shape Up"

Full House, a family sitcom about a widower raising his three daughters with help from his brother-in-law and best friend, addressed body image issues and eating disorders in this episode.

The story focuses on DJ, the eldest daughter, who starts starving herself to lose weight for a pool party. The episode highlights:

• The pressure young girls feel about their appearance
• The dangers of extreme dieting
• The importance of self-acceptance and healthy eating habits

The episode concludes with a heartwarming conversation between DJ and her father about inner beauty, sending a positive message to viewers about self-esteem and body image.

4. Mr. Belvedere - "Wesley's Friend"

Mr. Belvedere, a show about a proper English butler working for an American family, broke new ground with this episode about AIDS.

Set in 1985, when misinformation about AIDS was rampant, the episode follows Wesley's friend Danny, who contracts AIDS through a blood transfusion. The story tackles:

• The widespread misconceptions about AIDS transmission
• The stigma faced by those with the disease
• The importance of education and compassion

The episode ends with Danny reciting a poignant quote from Abraham Lincoln, highlighting the show's attempt to humanize those affected by AIDS during a time of fear and misunderstanding.

5. Growing Pains - "Thank God It's Friday"

Growing Pains, a sitcom about the Seaver family, addressed drug use in this memorable episode.

The story revolves around Mike and his friends attending a college party where cocaine is being used. The episode explores:

• Peer pressure to use drugs
• The importance of making responsible choices
• The potential consequences of drug use

The episode concludes with a direct address to the audience by Kirk Cameron, emphasizing the real-life importance of the message.

6. Small Wonder - "The Girl on the Milk Carton"

Small Wonder, a quirky show about a family with a robot daughter, took an unexpected turn into serious territory with this episode about child abduction.

The story begins as a light-hearted tale about a journalism contest but quickly shifts when a new classmate is identified as a missing child on a milk carton. The episode touches on:

• The reality of child abductions
• The importance of awareness and reporting
• The complexities of custody disputes

Despite the show's usually comedic tone, this episode managed to address a serious issue in a way that resonated with young viewers.

7. Punky Brewster - "Cherie Lifesaver"

Punky Brewster, a show about an abandoned girl taken in by a foster father, delivered one of the most memorable 'very special episodes' with this story about the dangers of old appliances.

The episode centers around Punky's friend Cherie getting trapped in an abandoned refrigerator during a game of hide-and-seek. It highlights:

• The importance of CPR knowledge
• The dangers of discarded appliances
• The value of quick thinking in emergencies

The dramatic scene of Cherie's rescue left a lasting impression on many young viewers, potentially saving lives by raising awareness about this hidden danger.

8. Family Ties - "A, My Name is Alex"

Family Ties, a popular sitcom about a liberal couple raising their conservative son and two daughters, produced this powerful two-part episode dealing with grief and existential questions.

The story follows Alex as he grapples with the sudden death of his friend Greg. The episode, particularly its commercial-free second half, explores:

• Survivor's guilt
• The process of grief
• Questioning one's beliefs and purpose

Michael J. Fox's performance in this episode, which takes on a unique theatrical style, is widely regarded as one of the finest in sitcom history.

9. Different Strokes - "The Bicycle Man"

Different Strokes, a show about two adopted African American boys living with a wealthy white widower, tackled the difficult subject of child molestation in this two-part episode.

The story revolves around a seemingly friendly bicycle shop owner who attempts to groom and molest Arnold and his friend Dudley. The episode addresses:

• The tactics used by child predators
• The importance of children speaking up about uncomfortable situations
• The need for parental vigilance and open communication

Despite its heavy subject matter, the episode managed to maintain some humor through the naivety of the children, while still delivering its crucial message.

10. Webster - "The Uh-Oh Feeling" (Revisited)

While we've already discussed this episode, it's worth revisiting due to its significant impact. The episode's approach to explaining child molestation to young viewers was groundbreaking for its time.

Key elements that made this episode stand out include:

• The use of age-appropriate language to explain a complex issue
• The emphasis on trusting one's feelings and speaking up
• The portrayal of supportive adults who believe and help the children

This episode, like many others on this list, opened up important conversations between parents and children about personal safety.

The Legacy of 'Very Special Episodes'

While 'very special episodes' may seem dated or even cheesy to modern audiences, their impact on a generation of viewers cannot be understated. These episodes:

• Brought serious issues into the living rooms of millions of families
• Provided a framework for discussing difficult topics
• Offered valuable life lessons through relatable characters
• Raised awareness about social issues and personal safety

Despite their sometimes heavy-handed approach, these episodes played a crucial role in educating and informing young viewers about real-world issues. They represent a unique moment in television history when entertainment and social responsibility intersected in a powerful way.

Today, as we look back on these episodes, we can appreciate the intent behind them and the impact they had on shaping the values and awareness of a generation. While the format of 'very special episodes' may have fallen out of favor, the lessons they imparted continue to resonate with those who grew up watching them.

In an era of more complex and nuanced storytelling, it's worth remembering the straightforward, often earnest approach of these episodes. They remind us of television's potential to educate and inspire, even while entertaining.

As we continue to grapple with many of the same issues today, perhaps there's something to be learned from the direct, compassionate approach of these 'very special episodes'. They stand as a testament to the power of storytelling to address serious issues and make a lasting impact on viewers of all ages.

Article created from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t32PVJML9SI