Why Is One Episode of Community Not Available on Netflix?

The reason the Season 2 episode “Advanced Dungeons & Dragons” is missing from Netflix (and other streaming platforms like Hulu) boils down to the unfortunate reality of blackface. While the episode aired initially, the character Chang, played by Ken Jeong, appears in dark makeup to portray a drow elf, a decision that has since been deemed racially insensitive and inappropriate. Due to the heightened awareness and rightly deserved scrutiny surrounding racial representation in media, Sony Pictures Television, which owns the rights to Community, made the decision to pull the episode from circulation to avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes and to demonstrate a commitment to responsible content distribution.

The Controversy Behind “Advanced Dungeons & Dragons”

The episode itself is a fan favorite, known for its clever writing, intricate plot involving a game of Dungeons & Dragons, and the strong character dynamics that define Community. However, Chang’s appearance in blackface casts a long shadow over the otherwise beloved episode. The scene, intended as comedic at the time, has aged poorly and is now widely recognized as offensive.

The backlash against blackface has been significant and justified. It’s a practice with a deeply rooted history in minstrel shows, where white performers would darken their skin to caricature Black people for entertainment. These performances perpetuated harmful stereotypes and contributed to a climate of racial discrimination. The use of blackface, even in a seemingly harmless context, can be triggering and reinforces painful historical power dynamics.

Sony’s Decision to Remove the Episode

Sony Pictures Television made the conscious choice to remove “Advanced Dungeons & Dragons” to address the issue directly. Instead of attempting to defend or contextualize the scene, they opted to acknowledge the harm it caused and take action to prevent its continued circulation. This decision, though disappointing to some fans who enjoyed the episode, reflects a broader shift in the entertainment industry toward greater accountability and a commitment to creating more inclusive and respectful content.

The Larger Context of Content Removal

It’s important to understand that this is not an isolated incident. In recent years, many television shows and movies have faced scrutiny for their portrayal of marginalized groups. Instances of racism, sexism, homophobia, and other forms of discrimination have led to episodes being pulled, scenes being edited, or entire shows being canceled. This trend reflects a growing awareness of the impact of media representation and a demand for more responsible and sensitive storytelling.

While some may argue that removing content is a form of censorship or erasing history, the reality is that these decisions are often driven by a desire to avoid perpetuating harm and to promote a more inclusive and equitable society. In the case of “Advanced Dungeons & Dragons,” the episode’s absence from streaming platforms serves as a reminder of the importance of critically examining media and holding creators accountable for the messages they convey.

The Impact on the Community Legacy

Despite the absence of “Advanced Dungeons & Dragons,” Community remains a highly regarded and influential sitcom. Its innovative storytelling, sharp writing, and memorable characters continue to resonate with audiences. The show’s legacy is not diminished by the removal of a single episode, but rather enhanced by the industry’s willingness to acknowledge past mistakes and strive for better representation in the future. Fans can still enjoy the vast majority of Community‘s episodes on Netflix and other platforms, celebrating the show’s many strengths while also recognizing the importance of ongoing dialogue about problematic content. The series’ enduring appeal speaks volumes about its quality, even with this one unfortunate blemish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is “Advanced Dungeons & Dragons” available anywhere else besides Netflix?

No, “Advanced Dungeons & Dragons” has been removed from all major streaming platforms, including Hulu, Amazon Prime Video (where it may have been previously available for purchase), and iTunes. It is effectively unavailable for legal streaming or digital purchase. Physical copies of earlier DVD releases may contain the episode, but acquiring those could prove difficult.

2. Will the episode ever be put back on Netflix?

It is highly unlikely that “Advanced Dungeons & Dragons” will be restored to Netflix or any other major streaming service in its original form. The decision to remove the episode was made in response to valid concerns about its racially insensitive content, and there’s no indication that Sony Pictures Television intends to reverse that decision.

3. Could the episode be edited to remove the offending scene?

While theoretically possible, it’s unlikely that the episode will be edited and re-released. Editing the scene would require significant alterations to the episode’s narrative and may still not fully address the underlying issues. Furthermore, releasing a modified version could be perceived as attempting to whitewash history rather than confronting it directly.

4. Are there other episodes of Community that have been removed for similar reasons?

“Advanced Dungeons & Dragons” is the only episode of Community that has been officially removed from streaming platforms due to problematic content. While some other episodes may contain jokes or scenarios that haven’t aged well, they haven’t been deemed offensive enough to warrant removal.

5. How do the cast and crew of Community feel about the episode’s removal?

The cast and crew of Community have generally been supportive of the decision to remove the episode. Some have publicly acknowledged the problematic nature of the blackface scene and expressed regret that it was ever included in the show. While specific individual opinions vary, the overall sentiment appears to be one of understanding and acceptance.

6. What is the difference between “blackface” and other forms of makeup for characters?

“Blackface” specifically refers to the act of a non-Black person darkening their skin to imitate a Black person, often for comedic or stereotypical purposes. This practice has a deeply rooted history in racism and is inherently offensive. Other forms of makeup for character portrayal, such as stage makeup or special effects makeup, are not inherently offensive unless they perpetuate harmful stereotypes or are used in a racially insensitive manner.

7. Is removing content the same as censorship?

The debate over removing content versus censorship is complex. While some argue that removing content is a form of censorship that limits freedom of expression, others argue that it’s a responsible way to address harmful and discriminatory content. In the case of “Advanced Dungeons & Dragons,” the decision to remove the episode can be seen as a responsible action taken by the content owner to avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes and promoting a more inclusive and equitable media landscape. It is not a government-mandated restriction, distinguishing it from traditional censorship.

8. How does this situation impact the future of comedy?

This situation highlights the evolving standards for comedy. Jokes that were once considered acceptable may now be viewed as offensive or insensitive. This doesn’t mean that comedy is dead, but it does mean that comedians and writers need to be more mindful of the potential impact of their jokes and strive to create humor that is inclusive and respectful. Comedy must evolve to reflect societal values and promote understanding, rather than perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

9. Are there any documentaries or articles that further explain the history and impact of blackface?

Yes, there are numerous resources available to learn more about the history and impact of blackface. Documentaries like Ethnic Notions and articles from reputable sources such as the NAACP and the National Museum of African American History and Culture provide valuable insights into this complex and sensitive topic. Researching the minstrel show era and its cultural impact is also helpful.

10. What are some examples of comedies that handle sensitive topics well?

Several comedies have successfully tackled sensitive topics with humor and nuance. Shows like Atlanta, Master of None, and The Good Place have been praised for their thoughtful and insightful exploration of complex social issues. These shows demonstrate that it is possible to create comedy that is both funny and socially responsible.

11. What is the future of Community?

After its six seasons, a Community movie has been confirmed to be in development for Peacock. The show’s creator and many of the original cast members are expected to return. Whether the film will address the controversy surrounding “Advanced Dungeons & Dragons” remains to be seen, but its production signals the enduring popularity and cultural impact of the series. “#SixSeasonsAndAMovie” is finally becoming a reality.

12. How can I still enjoy Community without access to “Advanced Dungeons & Dragons”?

Focus on the many other fantastic episodes Community offers! The series boasts a wealth of clever writing, memorable characters, and hilarious storylines. Exploring other fan-favorite episodes, such as “Remedial Chaos Theory,” “Modern Warfare,” and “Pillows and Blankets,” can provide plenty of entertainment while allowing you to appreciate the show’s overall brilliance. The series is brimming with comedic gold beyond this one episode.