I was very recently reminded of that when I saw a twitter pic of the cast (sans "Ruthie") reunited over dinner. I applauded Jessica Biel for taking the time and never being too big to return to her roots. The image was like a time machine that took me back "home."
Stephen Collins was a major part of creating that family that helped shape me. He seemed to embody the perfect husband, father, friend, and all-around great guy. He was, by far, one of my favorite television personalities. But, as it often happens, we fell into the trap of believing Stephen Collins was, and is, Eric Camden. We bought so deeply into his character that it shocked any "7th Heaven" fans to realize his past. Isn't that what every actor wants, though...to be so believable?
I've found myself wanting to read article after article to learn more about his child molestation investigation. I'm wondering if there were ever clues on the old set. I fear for the young actors he worked with. And, maybe deep down, I'm hoping there will be some explanation. But there's not. It is true. At this point, with his taped confession, the question isn't really whether it's true, but how to process it.
Stephen has already faced a considerable amount of backlash, and rightly so. He's resigned from positions he's held, he's been fired from current film projects, and his story is being plastered across the news. It makes perfect sense to drop him, protect the cast from any physical or emotional harm, and separate from that kind of behavior. However, TV Guide made a move that I find myself questioning. They cancelled the airing of old "7th Heaven" episodes and made the decision to never air the show again. Was this wise? Or, rather, was it fair?
I've watched the show many times, and never tire of it. However, I have to be honest in saying I'm not sure how I'll feel the next time I play an episode. But I don't agree with the cancellation of the reruns. It's not currently filming and it's not putting anyone at risk on set. It's just retelling the same stories that haven't changed. Stories about life, family, love, and good values. It seems a shame to not continue to share those stories because of one person. It's unfair to the much larger creative team that we forget exist because they weren't in front of the camera. It's unfair to the actors that have to have their television legacy tainted by something they weren't a part of. It's unfair to old fans who must feel ashamed for loving a show that had nothing to do with the scandal. And it' s unfair to future audiences who won't be able to learn some of the lessons that made that show special for teaching.
If the show were currently on, then I'd say fire him immediately and distance itself from him. But it's not. And it shouldn't be left to collect dust in the vault because of an actor's problem. We have to separate Eric Camden from Stephen Collins. What do you think?
