Five Times The Mary Tyler Moore Show Went Against Social Norms

The Mary Tyler Moore Show first aired back in 1970 and became a staple in households over the next seven years. The show challenged societal norms on gender, by casting a strong independent female lead. Over the course of seven years, the show continually challenged the image of women in the workplace. Many women of that time could not even fathom to have, she was a staple image for the progress women were making throughout society.

1. Cast a Strong Female Lead

Mary Tyler Moore's character proved to be just as much a leader as everyone else within the newsroom. Moore challenged the status quo many times throughout the series, standing by her work and knowing her worth as an employee. As an associate producer was the leader to many within the newsroom.

2. No Husband

Commonly in a show featuring a female lead, there is always a male love interest. As this is a stereotypical image of women's reliance on love for happiness it was exciting to see a single woman living her life. Although she does date within the show marriage is never something Moore gets herself into.

3. Unlikely Position

Moore's role within the newsroom was associate producer. As this took place in 1970 it was somewhat rare to find a woman in this type of higher-level position. That is why it was so groundbreaking seeing a woman producer who was successful at what she does and loves it at the same time.

4. Discussion of Pay Gap

In one episode, we see first-hand Richard challenge the pay difference between her and the man that she replaced. Ultimately she in paid $50 less a week in comparison. As we have seen this issue time and time again in real life. The fact that it was addressed on television was groundbreaking for the time. It gave insight into the horrid injustices that women face in the workplace.

5. Funny, and Serious

The Mary Tyler Moore Show demonstrated that you can be funny and still be respected as a woman. Commonly women feel they must be serious all the time in order to be taken seriously. Moore's character shows that you can still be influential and admired while also being yourself in the industry.