[s2e11] They Shoot Horses, Don't They? (2026 Update)

Why 'They Shoot Horses, Don't They?' is more relevant than ever

: Meg visits from college and reveals she has grown up with radical ideas. In a protest against the harsh treatment of animals used for hansom cabs in New York City, she decides to ride naked through the streets, causing a major conflict with her father. [S2E11] They Shoot Horses, Don't They?

The episode title is a direct reference to the 1935 novel by Horace McCoy and the acclaimed 1969 film of the same name, both of which center on a grueling Depression-era dance marathon. : "They Shoot Horses, Don't They?" (S2E11) Why 'They Shoot Horses, Don't They

The title is borrowed from the starring Jane Fonda and Michael Sarrazin. : "They Shoot Horses, Don't They

: The phrase "They shoot horses, don't they?" is used as a justification for a "mercy killing." At the end of the film, after the marathon destroys her spirit, the female lead begs her partner to shoot her. When arrested, he compares the act to putting down a horse with a broken leg—an animal that has lost its usefulness and is in pain.

The title "" is the name of Season 2, Episode 11 of the TV show Spin City , which originally aired on December 10, 1997.

This episode is notable for guest-starring as Meg, the Mayor's daughter.