Film and television often serve as time capsules, reflecting the social sensibilities of their era. Although some shows age poorly, others reveal surprising layers when viewed through a modern lens. This was my initial expectation when my wife and I embarked on a complete rewatch of “The Brady Bunch.” As a child of the ‘90s, I first encountered the show through Nick at Nite and quickly became obsessed with the parody films, “The Brady Bunch Movie” and “A Very Brady Sequel,” and the subsequent spin-offs. Returning to the original series decades later, I found myself pleasantly surprised by its enduring relevance and, in many ways, its surprisingly progressive themes.
The story of a blended family formed by a lovely lady and a man named Brady, along with their six children, is often remembered as a quintessential example of wholesome, white American family values. While criticisms regarding its limited exploration of complex issues beyond the everyday dramas of a suburban family are valid, I was struck by how timeless – and even ahead of its time – many of the episodes truly were. Yes, the dialogue can be corny, and many plots revisit familiar territory, but “The Brady Bunch” offers more than just nostalgic charm.
A Surprisingly Progressive Sitcom
“The Brady Bunch” originally aired from September 26, 1969, to March 8, 1974, and inevitably contains moments that haven’t aged well. But, as a viewer in 2026, I found myself less frequently jarred by outdated language or behaviors than I often am when revisiting older television. When those moments did arise – such as Mike and Carol Brady’s somewhat problematic attempt at a Charlie Chan impression – they stood out precisely because of their rarity.
In the episode “The Un-Underground Movie,” Greg Brady (Barry Williams) directs a short film about the first Thanksgiving, casting his family as Pilgrims and the Wampanoag tribe. When Peter (Christopher Knight) and Bobby (Mike Lookinland) resort to stereotypical and “savage” caricatures while portraying the Wampanoag, patriarch Mike Brady (Robert Reed) intervenes, explaining that Indigenous tribes only engaged in violence as a response to the theft of their land. This moment, delivered in 1970, feels remarkably prescient and progressive. Similarly, the episode “Double Parked” tackles the importance of protesting and the challenges of fighting for change within a capitalist system. “Alice’s September Song” sees the family protecting their housekeeper from an early form of romance scam, a surprisingly relevant storyline even today. Episodes like “Massive Little Man” promote self-acceptance for men of shorter stature, while “The Power of the Press” explores the ethical responsibilities of journalism, and “Bobby’s Hero” cautions against the romanticization of outlaws like Jesse James.
However, it’s the show’s subtle incorporation of feminist ideals that truly stands out.
Jan Brady: The True Icon
Considering the enduring popularity of the “Sure, Jan” meme from “A Very Brady Sequel,” it’s easy to assume that “The Brady Bunch” portrayed Marcia Brady (Maureen McCormick) as a shallow character and Jan Brady (Eve Plumb) as perpetually overlooked. This isn’t entirely accurate. While Marcia does grapple with superficial concerns – like her braces or a crush on her dentist – she also frequently advocates for women’s equality. Several episodes feature her challenging Greg’s preferential treatment simply because he’s a boy, and when her ego gets the better of her, as in “Juliet is the Sun,” the show swiftly brings her back down to earth.
But Jan Brady is the true standout. The quintessential “middle child,” her storylines are the most emotionally resonant, and Eve Plumb delivers a consistently strong performance. Jan’s struggles aren’t just about gender equality; they’re about being overshadowed by the popular Marcia and the adorable Cindy (Susan Olsen). At the same time, the male characters are presented with storylines that challenge traditional masculine tropes, with Mike and Carol (Florence Henderson) offering thoughtful lessons on empathy and mindfulness. Alice (the incomparable Ann B. Davis) provides consistent comedic relief, and it’s fascinating to observe the subtly suggestive dynamic between Mike and Carol, particularly given the constraints of television censorship at the time.
I didn’t expect to become so invested in a show that premiered before my parents even met, but I genuinely enjoyed my time at 4222 Clinton Way. “The Brady Bunch” isn’t perfect, but what family is? It’s a show that, despite its age, continues to offer valuable lessons about family, acceptance, and the importance of challenging societal norms.
“The Brady Bunch” is currently available for streaming on Paramount+ and Pluto TV.
As television continues to evolve, revisiting classic shows like “The Brady Bunch” offers a unique opportunity to understand how far we’ve come – and how much further we still have to go – in terms of social progress. The show’s enduring appeal suggests that its core message of family and acceptance remains relevant, even in a rapidly changing world. What are your favorite episodes and why? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
