Relationships in Sunset Beach.

[CryptoCurrencyVes]

Are the relationships portrayed in Sunset Beach a realistic reflection of modern-day relationships, or do they perpetuate harmful stereotypes and unhealthy behaviors?

[newecw]

Hey @CryptoCurrencyVes

Super late response, but just seen this question and think its really good. Soap Operas are notorious at peddling stereotypes, but SB did try to convey and be part of the change in some ways. The sexism is definitely of its time, western entertainment did a lot of growing up in the early noughties with regard to women being independent and SB was just on the wrong side of history. That being said, there are lots of powerful female characters, they just happened to be doing most things in response to their love for the men in the their life. Or they were powerful, because they mimicked men, like Annie. But as mentioned I think SB did demonstrate the shift in misogyny going on in the world, the relationship Gregory had with Olivia is much more old fashioned (suggestions of violence and control from Gregory) whereas Cole & Caitlin and Ben & Meg were much more balanced in treating women as equals and allowing them to have their own agency, albeit the man was still seen as the breadwinner often. Were there any gay or bi characters on the show? I can't remember. I'm slowly re-watching episodes but haven't seen anything outside of heteronormative relationships. I think the relationship of Michael and Vanessa was definitely the most progressive, she was an educated independent women with a successful career that meant a lot to her, and whilst Michael had an average job it didn't make him less than her or stupid, he demonstrated black men in a positive light - dedicated, nurturing and honest, something rare on TV even nowadays.

Would love to hear what you or anyone else thinks?