Ah, the ’70s — a decade known for its groovy music, bell-bottoms, and, let’s be honest, some pretty questionable hairstyles. But while we’re busy reminiscing about the best disco songs and iconic TV shows, it’s easy to forget that not every star made it through unscathed. Long before the term “cancel culture” entered our lexicon, a few celebrities faced their own unique forms of public backlash. Here are three ’70s stars who experienced a kind of cancellation before it was trendy.
1. Richard Nixon: The Original Cancelled President
Let’s kick things off with someone who’s often remembered in a less-than-flattering light: Richard Nixon. Now, you might be thinking, “Wait, he was a president, not a star!” But let’s face it, in the ’70s, he was as much of a public figure as any Hollywood actor. Nixon’s fall from grace came hard and fast with the Watergate scandal. What started as a simple break-in turned into an epic saga of political scandal that had everyone glued to their TVs.
As the details unfolded, Nixon went from being a respected leader to a punchline in late-night comedy routines. When he finally resigned in 1974, the public sentiment had shifted so drastically that it felt like he’d been cancelled by an entire nation. I mean, can you imagine if a modern-day president had to step down amid a scandal like that? It would be all over Twitter — #Cancelled would be trending for weeks!
2. John Lennon: The Rebel with a Cause
Next up is none other than the iconic John Lennon. Known for his music with The Beatles and his peace activism, Lennon was a beloved figure — until he wasn’t. In the ’70s, his outspoken views against the Vietnam War and his unapologetic stance on various social issues didn’t sit well with everyone. In fact, some folks were so irked by his activism that they labeled him a “subversive.” Can you believe that?
It’s interesting to think about how people reacted back then. Lennon’s comments about not wanting to be “a part of the establishment” and his open criticism of American politics led to a kind of backlash that feels eerily similar to today’s cancel culture — just without social media amplifying the noise. As a result, he faced significant scrutiny, even from the government, which attempted to have him deported. It’s a wild reminder of how a little bit of rebellion can lead to a whole lot of drama!
3. Marsha Brady: The Unfortunate Fall of Maureen McCormick
Now, let’s take a detour to the world of television with Maureen McCormick, who played Marsha Brady on the beloved show “The Brady Bunch.” While it might seem like she had it all — fame, fortune, and a catchy theme song — behind the scenes, things were a lot messier. After the show wrapped in the ’70s, McCormick struggled with addiction and faced a slew of personal challenges that turned her from America’s sweetheart into a cautionary tale.
While she wasn’t “cancelled” in the traditional sense, the public’s perception of her shifted dramatically. The charming girl we all loved was suddenly a tabloid fixture, and not in the way you’d want to be. It’s fascinating how quickly fame can turn sour. Watching her journey has a kind of bittersweet vibe; it’s like seeing a friend go through some tough times but knowing they’ve come out stronger on the other side.
A Lesson or Two from the Past
So, what can we learn from these stars who faced their own versions of cancellation long before it was a buzzword? For one, the pendulum of public opinion swings swiftly and often without warning. It’s a reminder that every celebrity, even those we adore, can find themselves in hot water. But it also shows how the more things change, the more they stay the same. Whether it’s Nixon in the political arena, Lennon on the social justice front, or McCormick battling personal demons, these stories highlight the complexities of fame and the fragility of public approval.
As we raise our coffee cups to the ’70s and the stars who shaped that unforgettable decade, it’s worth remembering that while the world has changed, some struggles remain timeless.
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