Married with Children was a bold, satirical sitcom that shattered traditional TV norms when it premiered in 1987, replacing idealized family portrayals with the dysfunctional Bundy household—led by bitter shoe salesman Al, his lazy wife Peggy, and their self-absorbed children Kelly and Bud.
Fox’s gamble on this unfiltered, boundary-pushing comedy paid off, helping establish the network’s identity and sparking a wave of similarly edgy shows like The Simpsons and Family Guy. The show’s unapologetic humor about obesity, gender stereotypes, and working-class struggles drew both passionate fans and fierce critics, especially after the controversial Season 3 episode “Her Cups Runneth Over” led to protests and advertiser boycotts spearheaded by activist Terry Rakolta. Ironically, the backlash only increased its popularity, turning Married with Children
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