**Married with Children** premiered on April 5, 1987, as a bold departure from the wholesome sitcoms of its time, introducing viewers to the dysfunctional Bundy family. Al Bundy, a disgruntled shoe salesman, and his lazy wife, Peggy, along with their clueless kids, represented a stark contrast to traditional family portrayals, employing irreverent humor to address themes like marital discord and societal norms.
The show quickly garnered both praise and controversy, particularly during its third season, when a viewer named Terry Rula launched a campaign against it. She found episodes like “Her Cups Runneth Over” inappropriate for family viewing, prompting her to pressure advertisers like McDonald’s and Coca-Cola to withdraw their support. Ironically, her campaign increased the show’s ratings, drawing in curious viewers and cementing its status as a cultural icon.
Despite initial backlash, **Married with Children** ran for 11 seasons, influencing the genre with its unapologetic take on family life. The controversy highlighted the tensions between creative expression and community standards, prompting discussions about the role of advertisers and censorship in television.
Ultimately, Rula’s campaign, while intended to diminish the show’s influence, instead elevated its profile, illustrating how controversy can paradoxically boost popularity. **Married with Children** remains a pivotal case study in media studies, reflecting the ever-evolving landscape of television standards and audience expectations.