The Golden Girls: A Cultural History

From 1985 to 1992, The Golden Girls connected with TV audiences of all ages, thanks to its unique blend of humor, friendships, and storylines that were often ahead of the times. It’s a curious phenomenon that the show is more popular than ever today. Editor/writer/photographer Giacomazzo (“In Living Color”: A Cultural History) explores the many reasons why. Other books have often concentrated primarily on the show itself, but this one places The Golden Girls within a broader framework, elaborating on earlier eras and milestones that influenced not only the show’s creation but also its ongoing impact on popular culture. The show’s characters—Dorothy, Rose, Blanche, and Sophia—each get their own chapter that includes a list of their 10 best episodes, along with a “Comedic Master Class” chapter about the show’s best storylines. Giacomazzo’s approachable writing style works particularly well in chapters that explore the show’s historical background, such as the memorable way it discussed AIDS in the wake of the Reagan administration. This book is a much-needed addition to the growing body of scholarship around this beloved sitcom.