The character Scott Scanlon, played by Douglas Emerson, met a tragic end in season two, episode 18, entitled “Things to Do on a Rainy Day.” This episode marked a significant and somber turning point in the show, dealing with themes of accidental death and the emotional impact it has on teenagers.
The Weight of a Gun: Exploring “Things to Do on a Rainy Day”
“Things to Do on a Rainy Day” aired on July 8, 1992, and remains one of the most memorable – and arguably one of the darkest – episodes in Beverly Hills, 90210 history. The episode revolves around a rainy day where the gang finds themselves confined indoors, leading to various activities and conversations. Kelly Taylor throws a party, David Silver tries (and fails) to impress Donna Martin, and, tragically, Scott Scanlon’s obsession with impressing his friends takes a deadly turn.
Scott’s storyline involved him practicing gun tricks with a pistol he’d recently acquired. While attempting to show off, the gun accidentally discharged, killing him instantly. The episode doesn’t explicitly show the shooting, but rather cuts to the aftermath, focusing on the reactions and grief of his friends, particularly David Silver, who was present at the scene.
The impact of Scott’s death resonated throughout the remainder of the season and beyond. The show explored themes of grief, guilt, and the importance of responsible gun ownership, providing a cautionary tale for its teenage audience. It also forced the characters to confront their own mortality and the fragility of life.
The Aftermath and Legacy of Scott’s Death
Scott Scanlon’s departure from 90210 was not just a plot point; it was a deliberate choice by the show’s creators to inject a dose of reality into the often glamorous lives of the Beverly Hills teens. This decision, while controversial, served to highlight the dangers of reckless behavior and the far-reaching consequences of accidental tragedy. The episode became a benchmark for the show’s willingness to tackle serious social issues.
While Douglas Emerson left the show due to creative differences and a desire to pursue other opportunities, the character’s death remained a significant event in the series’ timeline. The experience deeply affected David Silver, shaping his personality and relationships throughout the subsequent seasons. The tragedy served as a constant reminder of the importance of responsible decision-making and the preciousness of life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Scott Scanlon’s Death on 90210
Here are frequently asked questions to provide a more complete understanding of Scott Scanlon’s storyline and its impact:
What motivated the writers to kill off Scott Scanlon?
The writers aimed to address serious issues like gun safety and accidental death, bringing a dose of realism to the show and demonstrating that tragic events can happen to anyone, even in affluent Beverly Hills. It was also intended to push the characters into more mature storylines.
Was Douglas Emerson, the actor who played Scott, fired from 90210?
No, Douglas Emerson was not fired. He chose to leave the show, partially due to limited screen time and partially to pursue other opportunities. His character’s death was a mutual decision between him and the show’s producers.
How did David Silver react to Scott’s death?
David was profoundly affected by Scott’s death. He felt immense guilt as he was present during the shooting. This experience deeply impacted his character, causing him to become more introspective and aware of his own mortality. He struggled with grief and feelings of responsibility throughout the season.
Did the episode “Things to Do on a Rainy Day” receive any criticism?
Yes, the episode received mixed reactions. Some viewers praised its realism and willingness to tackle difficult topics. Others criticized the show for being too graphic and exploiting tragedy for dramatic effect. The depiction of gun violence, even if accidental, was a point of contention for some.
What was the impact of Scott’s death on the other characters in 90210?
While David was the most directly impacted, Scott’s death served as a wake-up call for the other characters. It forced them to confront their own mortality and the fragility of life. They became more aware of the consequences of their actions and began to take responsibility for their choices.
How did 90210 handle the topic of gun safety following Scott’s death?
Following Scott’s death, the show subtly addressed the issue of gun safety in subsequent episodes. While not a constant theme, the characters occasionally discussed the importance of responsible gun ownership and the dangers of reckless behavior. The narrative served as a subtle reminder of the tragedy and its avoidable nature.
Was Scott Scanlon a popular character on 90210?
Scott Scanlon was not a central character, but he served as a relatable friend to David Silver. He wasn’t particularly popular in the same vein as Brandon or Kelly, but he was a familiar face and his death created a resonating impact on viewers.
What other significant storylines did 90210 address that tackled serious social issues?
Besides Scott’s death, 90210 addressed a range of serious social issues, including teen pregnancy, drug abuse, date rape, eating disorders, and HIV/AIDS. These storylines often sparked conversations and raised awareness among the show’s young audience.
How did Scott’s death contribute to the overall tone and direction of 90210?
Scott’s death marked a turning point in the show, signaling a shift towards more mature and realistic storylines. While 90210 still maintained its focus on relationships and social issues, it also began to explore darker and more complex themes.
Were there any warnings or disclaimers shown before or after the episode “Things to Do on a Rainy Day”?
Given the sensitive nature of the episode, it is highly likely that the show included a warning or disclaimer before and/or after the episode aired, alerting viewers to the content involving gun violence and accidental death. However, records of specific disclaimers are not readily available. It would depend on broadcast standards at the time and network policy.
How did fans react to Scott’s death and Douglas Emerson’s departure from the show?
Fan reactions were mixed. Many were saddened by Scott’s death and felt sympathy for David Silver. Others were critical of the show’s decision to kill off a character, viewing it as a cheap plot device. Douglas Emerson’s departure was also met with disappointment from some viewers who enjoyed his portrayal of Scott.
Did the 90210 reboot ever reference Scott Scanlon’s death?
While the reboot focused on a new generation of students and issues, it’s unlikely that it directly referenced Scott Scanlon’s death. The original series, however, established a foundation of addressing serious issues, and the reboot may have indirectly touched upon similar themes without explicitly mentioning Scott.