The Operation (Season 1, Episode 18)
The Golden Girls Deep Dive Podcast
Deep Dive
Why is Dorothy so afraid of going to the hospital?
Dorothy's fear stems from a traumatic experience as a five-year-old when she had her tonsils removed without her mother present.
What is the significance of the 'Maude' abortion episodes?
The episodes were groundbreaking for addressing abortion on television and were a significant part of Bea Arthur's pre-'Golden Girls' career.
How did the 'Maude' abortion episodes impact television and public opinion?
The episodes sparked significant controversy and protest but also attracted a large audience, highlighting ongoing debates about abortion and women's rights.
Why did the network initially resist airing the 'Maude' abortion episodes?
The network was concerned about the controversial nature of the topic and potential backlash from conservative groups.
What role did Norman Lear play in ensuring the 'Maude' abortion episodes were aired?
Norman Lear threatened to pull the show from the network's schedule if they did not agree to air the episodes, using his influence to push for their broadcast.
How did the 'Maude' abortion episodes reflect the changing attitudes towards abortion in the 1970s?
The episodes aired at a time when abortion laws were being reformed in several states and just months before the landmark Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision.
What was the original concept for the 'Maude' episodes that eventually became the abortion storyline?
Initially, the episodes were meant to focus on vasectomies and contraception, with Maude's neighbor Vivian getting pregnant.
How did the character of Maude reflect the feminist movement of the 1970s?
Maude was portrayed as a strong, liberal, feminist character who often challenged traditional gender roles and societal norms.
What was the reaction of the United States Catholic Conference to the 'Maude' abortion episodes?
The organization organized a campaign against the episodes, leading to nearly 40 affiliates opting not to broadcast them.
How did the 'Maude' abortion episodes influence the show's ratings?
Despite the controversy, the episodes were a ratings success, catapulting the series into the top 10 of the Nielsen ratings.
- Dorothy discovers a foot injury that requires surgery.
- Her fear of hospitals is rooted in a traumatic experience as a child.
- Sophia's recount of her own surgery experiences in Sicily adds context to Dorothy's fears.
Shownotes Transcript