By Rosemary Boeglin
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At its inception, “Degrassi” was a Canadian teen soap opera that held the viewer’s interest with its diverse characters and its edgy subject matter. The show dealt with issues in a way that young teens could understand, breeding tolerance among its viewers concerning issues such as AIDS, abortion, abuse, alcoholism, cheating, sex, death and suicide, dating, depression, bullying, gay rights, homophobia, racism, the environment, drugs and eating disorders. This, perhaps the shows most commendable aspect of the show, should be regarded as truly remarkable, seeing as its peer teen dramas across the border were restrained to “he said, she said” fuss and the occasional pregnancy scare.

In fact, the U.S. broadcaster of the show, The N, has edited out parts of episodes or refused to air episodes in their entirety due to subject matter of, or reference to, abortion. That kind of thing doesn’t only happy in Canada, so why not maturely address the issue on U.S. airwaves?

This is an irresponsible and nonsensical decision considering the shows audience. If the N had its viewers at heart, it would consider that there are many teens in the United States who have experienced accidental pregnancies and, therefore, some who have also contemplated or got abortions. That kind of thing doesn’t only happen in Canada, so why not maturely address the issue on U.S. airwaves?

While it succeeds in striking the debate, “Degrassi”, a show with a moral conscience and, typically, viewer education in mind, often makes its points in such flashy, obvious ways, that the plot sometimes seems to be on the backburner.

The show also depicts a clean image of the “villain” in a situation, leaving little to no interpretation for the viewer whether or not what is happening is right or wrong and who should be held responsible. “Degrassi’s” characters do all the thinking for you, which I guess could be seen as a positive to some.

An important distinction to make when flipping on “Degrassi” is if it is “Degrassi High” or “Degrassi: Next Generation.” It is difficult for me to ascertain whether or not I like the original better because I have more memories watching it and am more familiar with the overall plot and characters, or because it is a better show. Regardless, “Next Generation” brings a host of new characters, some interesting, some obnoxious, while continuing to follow the lives of beloved first generation characters.

Largely, the show is interesting in many ways because it is starkly different from television programs produced for teens within the United States. This makes it fresh and different, leaving the viewer not only hanging on until the next airing to see what happens, but also thoughts and ideas to contemplate in the interim.

Also, they say “aboot” instead of “about.” I like that.