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- The Plot and Storylines of The Goode Family
- Why The Goode Family Flopped Where King of the Hill Succeeded
As someone who grew up in the heart of Texas, I can’t help but compare the impact of two animated shows that satirized families from opposite ends of the political spectrum: “The Goode Family” and “King of the Hill”. Now, let me tell ya, I’ve seen more than a few rodeos in my time, and I’ve got to say, “King of the Hill” was the bull that refused to buck off.
Mike Judge boasts an impressive portfolio in the animation world, as he was the creator behind two beloved ’90s animated shows – “Beavis and Butt-Head” and “King of the Hill.” Despite their contrasting styles and tones, one featuring the crude antics of Beavis and Butt-Head, and the other revolving around the family life of Hank Hill, they both resonated strongly with ’90s audiences and continue to be cherished today. Remakes or continuations of these series are either currently airing or in development. However, it’s unlikely that we will see a revival of Judge’s third animated production, as it remains relatively unknown to many viewers.
In the year 2009, ABC debuted a series titled “The Goode Family,” which was similar to “King of the Hill” in its focus on a family navigating contemporary life’s challenges. However, unlike the subtly conservative “King of the Hill,” the titular Goode family was openly liberal and fixated on political correctness. This departure from Judge’s usual avoidance of overt politics might have contributed to “The Goode Family” lasting for just a single season of 13 episodes. But what else is there to learn about this lesser-known spin-off of “King of the Hill”?
The Plot and Storylines of The Goode Family
The main focus of The Goode Family revolves around the title group, a band of liberal-minded hippies residing in California. The head of the household is Gerald, who bears a striking resemblance to Mr. Van Driessen from Beavis and Butt-Head, in terms of appearance, voice, and personality. Gerald’s wife, Helen, is an active local advocate who worries about how their family is perceived by the townsfolk. The Goodes consist of two children: biological daughter Bliss and adopted South African son Ubuntu. Their pet dog Che is raised as a vegan, but his love for meat leads him to occasionally snack on neighborhood pets. Completing the family dynamic is Helen’s conservative father, Charlie, who frequently ridicules the Goodes’ beliefs.
The family prioritizes political correctness over other matters, often judging those who disagree with them. The show portrays the Goodes as having good intentions but lacking knowledge in certain areas. For instance, they planned to adopt their son named Ubuntu (whom they frequently mispronounce) from Africa to foster racial diversity and acceptance. However, Ubuntu was actually white and South African.
The series primarily focuses on everyday social issues such as community service, LGBTQ+ inclusivity, racial equality, gender norms, veganism, and environmental activism. It aligns perfectly with the characteristics often associated with progressive liberals. However, ABC appeared uncertain from the beginning by airing all 13 episodes during their usual low-rated summer season. Further installments were prepared, but the show was terminated after those initial 13. Given that it bore Judge’s name, how did things go awry?
Why The Goode Family Flopped Where King of the Hill Succeeded
It seems that the primary reason for the show’s lack of success might have been viewer disinterest in another political satire, especially given its release timeline following President Obama’s inauguration in 2009. The show aimed to reflect the evolving cultural landscape but failed to connect with its intended message. Instead, audiences preferred entertainment that provided an escape from daily news. Critics found that The Goode Family shone brightest when it stepped away from politics and focused on family dynamics. They believed the show could still address relevant topics such as child-rearing and ideological differences without being overtly confrontational.
Compare it to “King of the Hill.” Just as that series humorously portrayed a traditionalist family, “The Goode Family” mimics a liberal one. However, unlike “King of the Hill,” “The Goode Family” was more overt in its political stance. Hank from “King of the Hill” might have been conservative, but he didn’t spend his time advocating for his views or forcing them on others. Instead, he evaluated people based on their moral character rather than their political affiliations. Unlike the Goodes, who were unwavering supporters of leftist ideologies, Hank wasn’t a die-hard conservative.
In one episode, Hank expresses doubt about his backing of George W. Bush after receiving a limp handshake from him. The show “King of the Hill” had politics subtly woven into it, making it accessible to viewers with diverse political views. On the other hand, determining the intended audience for “The Goode Family” is challenging. Was it meant for those who disapproved of the Goodes’ lifestyle and found its satire amusing? Or was it aimed at people who agreed with them and appreciated seeing social issues portrayed? However, it doesn’t seem to strike a chord with either group due to its excessive preaching, which turned off most viewers.
One enduring legacy of the Goode Family is that it was the last adult animated series to air on ABC, due to its poor performance. Given our current political climate, which is more divided than at any time in recent history, one might ponder how The Goode Family would fare today. With updated issues for 2024, there’s a chance that it could be more successful. Political satire shows have seen an uptick in popularity since 2009, particularly those commenting on our distinctive modern society. Mike Judge has returned to political satire with the stop-motion animated series In the Know for Peacock. Comparatively, following up Beavis and Butt-Head and King of the Hill was never going to be an effortless task. Regrettably, The Goode Family didn’t measure up. However, Judge’s fourth series, Silicon Valley, did help restore his past glory days. The Goode Family is available for streaming on Peacock, Tubi, and Pluto TV.
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2024-09-22 05:31