The world of television sitcoms has often struggled with the introduction of pregnancy storylines, and the five examples presented here are prime examples of how this delicate narrative device can go awry. These stories not only limit the comedic potential of the characters but also undermine their arcs in ways that are both frustrating and confusing. Let's delve into each of these storylines, exploring why they rank among the worst in sitcom history and what makes them so problematic.
The Big Bang Theory: Penny's Surprise
In the series finale of 'The Big Bang Theory', the writers made the controversial decision to introduce a pregnancy storyline for Penny (Kaley Cuoco). This choice was particularly disappointing given that Cuoco herself was against it, citing her character's established preferences. The storyline felt like a convenient plot device to tie up loose ends, with Penny's change of heart being a mere afterthought. The writers' attempt to pay homage to Leonard's (Johnny Galecki) line about 'smart and beautiful' babies in the pilot was sweet, but it came at the expense of Penny's agency. This storyline highlights the challenge of writing for established characters and the potential pitfalls of wish fulfillment.
Mad About You: The Baby-Obsessed Turn
'Mad About You' took a turn towards the absurd in Season 6 with the introduction of baby Mabel. The show's decline in viewership and the critics' ridicule of the 'baby-obsessed' turn are well-documented. The 20-minute, one-take scene of the baby's incessant crying was a desperate attempt to keep the series relevant, but it only seemed to hasten its cancellation. The show's initial focus on the couple's relationship made the introduction of a baby feel like a forced and uninspired move. This storyline serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of over-reliance on a single narrative device.
Brooklyn Nine-Nine: The Flippant Debate
'Brooklyn Nine-Nine' introduced a pregnancy storyline in Season 6 that felt forced and unconvincing. The episode 'Casecation' had Amy Santiago (Melissa Fumero) and Jake Peralta (Andy Samberg) engage in a structured debate about having children, with Amy's ruthlessness coming across as uncomfortable rather than funny. The end of the episode tried to sell the idea that Jake's change of heart was a result of growth, but it still felt like a hostage situation. The storyline's heavy-handedness and the pressure placed on Jake to become a parent made it hard for viewers to connect with the characters' journey.
Modern Family: Haley's Unwise Choice
Haley Dunphy's (Sarah Hyland) pregnancy in 'Modern Family' Season 10 was a disappointment for many fans. The early seasons of the show had hinted at Haley's accidental pregnancy, but her success in her career made the storyline feel out of place. The fact that the father of her twins was her dopey high school boyfriend Dylan (Reid Ewing) was a major step backward, especially given the show's previous success with Haley's love interest Andy (Adam DeVine). Haley's reduced screen time in the final season further emphasized the lack of care given to her character's arc. This storyline highlights the importance of character development and the potential pitfalls of predictable plot devices.
Scrubs: Kim's Soap Opera Shenanigans
'Scrubs' introduced Kim Briggs (Elizabeth Banks) as JD's (Zach Braff) charming love interest, only to have her pregnancy storyline turn into a soap opera-like drama. Kim's lie about having a miscarriage in 'My Road to Nowhere' was a baffling and out-of-character decision that killed any chance of her and JD making things work. The storyline felt like a lazy attempt to set up JD and Elliot's (Sarah Chalke) reconciliation, especially given the show's messy romantic pairings. The fact that JD and Elliot ended up getting divorced in the revival further emphasized the flaws in this storyline. This example showcases the importance of character consistency and the potential consequences of rushed and ill-thought-out narratives.
