The conspiracy to make people forget

No... this won't be about Michael Jackson, although it is obvious that MJ is the perpetual victim of this phenomenon.

This time, I'm talking about Diff'rent Strokes, or specifically, the show's true legacy and that of the young co-stars. I have Todd Bridges to thank for this current train of thought.

Bridges' recent appearances on HLN shows illustrated how articulate and charismatic he is. Unfortunately, the media continues to fixate on his tulmultous 20s, a period that most adults don't look back on too fondly, including me. Because of Bridges, I decided to revisit Diff'rent Strokes, specifically, the first season (on DVD). And I have to say... I loved strolling down memory lane, feeling completely impressed by Bridges, Gary Coleman and Dana Plato's energy, charisma, and consistent good work. Yes, eventually, life caught up with all of these young performers, but that shouldn't be the beginning, middle, or end of any of these performers.

And that's my question... why is the media do hell-bent on making people forget, especially the good? These kids were good, despite having it bad behind the scenes. It's like the media blame them for the bad, when in fact, the adults in their lives were the primary purveyors of the bad that eventually befell them. The exception, of course, is Conrad Bain, who consistently remained a dignified presence when it came to the legacy of Diff'rent Strokes and to some of the child actors who retained contact with him long after the show's end.

I am grateful to Todd Bridges for making me remember the good. And on that note, here's a clip from Diff'rent Strokes, featuring a young Janet Jackson as Charlene, Willis' first girlfriend. And needless to say, some good work from Coleman, Plato and Bain as well.