Forget "Sex and the City." Blanche, Rose, Dorothy and Sophia were the real trailblazers when it came to women's sexuality on TV. Known for its raunchy humor, "The Golden Girls" -- which premiered in 1985 -- was years before its time. Here are eight invaluable lessons about sex we learned thanks to "The Golden Girls."
1. Always use protection. And be proud to purchase those condoms.
When Rose, Blanche and Dorothy were heading off to a Valentine's cruise with their three respective "longtime gentleman friends," Blanche had the wisdom to suggest they all buy condoms for protection should things get intimate. Though Rose and Dorothy were sheepish about making the purchase, Blanche, as usual, refused to be embarrassed by the judgemental cashier or passersby.
2. Fantasize about sex. Often.
There's no doubt that Blanche had the most vivid imagination of the girls. And that's perfectly healthy. Blanche: I mean, if she’s gonna have fantasies, they oughtta be the normal, healthy kind, like… sweaty Argentinian cowboys whippin’ things while they ride naked on the back of Brahma bulls.
3. Older women still want sex.
Sophia: When I feel bad, I have to distract myself, and there's only one thing that does that. Dorothy: Cooking a big meal? Sophia: No, making love in a closet.
4. It's OK for older women to openly discuss sex.
The show undoubtedly made many older women comfortable chatting with their girlfriends about their sex lives or lack thereof. Sure there was plenty of humorous banter but the show touched on serious topics too. Like Sophia lamenting she hasn't had sex in 15 years. Blanche describing how she rates sex on a scale of 1 to 10. The girls discussing how long after the death of a spouse you should wait to have sex again. Or Dorothy talking about her sexless marriage.
5. It's OK for a woman to make the first move.
Blanche: Sophia, by placing this pearl necklace between my bosoms, does it make me look like I'm a sex-starved slut who is in need of a man to bed? Sophia: Yes. Blanche: Good, then pearl it is.
Get it, girl.
6. A little kink never hurt anybody.
Whipped cream. Handcuffs. Yep, they've done it all.
7. Everyone should have the right to be loved.
The Supreme Court may have just now ruled in favor of same-sex marriage, but the Golden Girls always understood the universal right to love and be loved.
In one episode, Blanche was unsettled by her gay brother's upcoming marriage to his partner. While she could get on board with his sexuality, she didn't understand why he had to make it official. Sophia in all her wisdom had this to say, changing Blanche's mind, and maybe even the minds of some viewers: "Everyone wants someone to grow old with. And shouldn't everyone have that chance?"
8. Self-love is the most important thing.
Blanche says she treats her body "like a temple." "Who knows my body better than I do?"
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