How did the Oscar-winning song, “Baby, it’s Cold Outside,” touch down in the midst of a firestorm?

The 1944 holiday classic composed by Frank Loesser has been recorded by everyone from Dean Martin to Idina Menzel and Michael Bublé. Bing Crosby and Doris Day, Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett, and many more have recorded it.

Until now, it’s been a staple on holiday playlists at radio stations across the country. Now, as you know, stations across the country have banned the tune in the era of #MeToo Movement. Critics say it promotes date rape. In the song, the man repeatedly pleads with the woman not to leave despite her protests.

Is this a legitimate complaint and concern, or are some people simply looking for a wedge issue?

(I’ve got to go away) But, baby, it’s cold outside
(This evening has been) Been hoping that you’d drop in
(So very nice) I’ll hold your hands they’re just like ice

(My mother will start to worry) Beautiful, what’s your hurry
(My father will be pacing the floor) Listen to the fireplace roar
(So really I’d better scurry) Beautiful, please don’t hurry
(Well, maybe just half a drink more) Put some records on while I pour

(The neighbors might think) Baby, it’s bad out there
(Say what’s in this drink) No cabs to be had out there
(I wish I knew how) Your eyes are like starlight now
(To break this spell) I’ll take your hat, your hair looks swell

(I ought to say no, no, no, sir) Mind if I move in closer
(At least I’m gonna say that I tried) What’s the sense of hurting my pride
(I really can’t stay) Baby, don’t hold out
[Both] Baby, it’s cold outside

(I simply must go) But, baby, it’s cold outside
(The answer is no) But, baby, it’s cold outside
(The welcome has been) How lucky that you dropped in
(So nice and warm) Look out the window at the storm

(My sister will be suspicious) Gosh your lips look delicious
(My brother will be there at the door) Waves upon a tropical shore
(My maiden aunt’s mind is vicious) Gosh your lips are delicious
(But maybe just a cigarette more) Never such a blizzard before

(I got to get home) But, baby, you’d freeze out there
(Say lend me a coat) It’s up to your knees out there
(You’ve really been grand) I thrill when you touch my hand
(But don’t you see) How can you do this thing to me

(There’s bound to be talk tomorrow) Think of my life long sorrow
(At least there will be plenty implied) If you caught pneumonia and died
(I really can’t stay) Get over that hold out

[Both] Baby, it’s cold outside