18 Things True ‘Dawson’s Creek’ Fans Should Already Know

Dawson’s Creek was one of the most popular teen angst dramas of its time, becoming the defining show of The WB network from 1998 to 2003. Unlike typical coming-of-age material that tends to talk down to teens, it was full of pithy dialogue, intelligent banter and quick wit not generally shown with young characters, and the show never shied away from controversy. Still wish Joey ended up with Dawson instead of Pacey? Take a trip back to Capeside and learn some behind-the-scenes dish about Dawson’s Creek.

1. Some considered the show too controversial

Dawson’s Creek went head-on with topics like sex, and for some people it was a little too much. In fact, the show actually lost one of their sponsors over the content. Procter & Gamble said: “As we have learned more about the episodes over the long term and the content that will unfold over time, the majority of the content within the majority of the episodes walks a fine line and bumps up against what we think is appropriate.” What, does Pacey sleeping with his teacher cross the line?

2. Masturbation was off limits

They liked to press the envelope with their dialogue on the show, and the original pilot script had doe-eyed Joey asking her best friend/crush Dawson “How often do you masturbate?” However, Standards and Practices reviewed the episode and balked at them saying “masturbate” on TV. So, they changed it to the awkward euphemism, “How often do you walk your dog?”

3. Even Jack Didn’t Know He Was Gay at First

When show creator Kevin Williamson introduced the character of Jack McPhee he didn’t tell anyone including the actor or the writers that he would ultimately be revealed as gay. Kerr Smith thought he was being hired to create a love triangle between Joey and Dawson. Smith thought it would be better off establishing him as a likeable character and then having him come out halfway through the season.