Despite Charlie Sheen's fall from grace during and after the show, 'Two and a Half Men' developed a strong fan following. It did so well, in fact, that showrunners replaced Charlie with Ashton Kutcher to have another go at the series.
While everyone knows how that ended, the fact remains that the show had a solid run. But fans speculate that its end was largely a sign of the times. In fact, they think that if the show were pitched today, no studio would dare to touch it.
Fans Think 'Two And A Half Men' Would Flop Today
'Two and a Half Men' had a lot going for it. There was wit, there was snark, there were tons of celebrity appearances. But were it pitched today, fans say there are a few problematic things that would make it a no-go.
One Redditor opened the conversation by stating that "with how sensitive everyone is these days," they didn't think the show would take off if its launch was in 2021. Remember, the show ran from 2003 to 2015, and a lot has changed since the debut and even since the show's conclusion.
As far as whether the show could have been made "exactly as it was," many fans say no, it wouldn't fly. Some jokes about LGBTQ+ groups would have to be removed, they note. But it's not just those off-color jokes that would make 'Two and a Half Men' a no-go.
Charlie Sheen's Reputation Wouldn't Help The Show
If it were pitched today, fans say, 'Two and a Half Men' couldn't have Charlie Sheen anywhere near it. Sure, a lot of the humor and themes could be cleaned up and get the general public's approval.
But Charlie's history with domestic violence and other issues would mean they'd need a different kind of main character. Too bad Hugh Grant was never up for the task of becoming Charlie Harper, maybe that would've worked!
The Overall Vibe On 'Two And A Half Men' Is Outdated
Of course, the general theme of the show would also have to be updated, commenters noted. Essentially, the "overall general objectification and negative portrayal of women during the Charlie era" wouldn't sit well with modern viewers, they suggest.
Especially in terms of the underage and inebriated relationship encounters; from sexualizing Berta's teen granddaughter to the number of adult beverages in the show, it added up to an uncomfortable atmosphere. At least, it would for today's audiences, say fans.
As for their final admission, despite an overall defense of the show, fans say that the lack of racial diversity would probably be another talking point. Ultimately, 'Two and a Half Men' is probably better of canceled than revived or rebooted, and even fans of the show as it was can admit that.
