I hate those sitcom dads, but I have a soft spot for early Homer Simpson and Malcolm in the Middle. They’re technically sitcoms with bumbling fathers, but in The Simpsons there are moments where Homer must face the horrors of capitalism and sacrifice is portrayed.

And Malcolm is pretty much about an dysfunctional, borderline abusive family that was a result of constantly being stressed over finances, bankruptcy, minimum wage jobs, and potential homelessness. Hal is an idiot, but we know why because he doesn’t have enough time or energy to truly learn about being a good dad.

Other feel good sitcoms rarely show what the “sacrifice” actually is, and if they do it’s usually just “oh shucks, I’m being laid off, but I still love my family and will find another job to provide for them.” The cruelty is not present. It is just another obstacle for characters to get through. It’s no surprise that politicians criticized The Simpsons (and maybe Malcolm? I’m not sure) and encouraged people to be like the feel-good always happy live audience sitcom families. There is no overarching horror corrupting their relationships and behavior. Everything is okay at the end of the day.