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Becker

(Rated TV-PG, Comedy, Starring Ted Danson, Hattie Winston, Terry Farrell, Where to watch: TBS, Syndicated, DVD)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 13, age appropriate for kids over 15; suggested age 13.

  • Is it any good?

    3.0

  • Common Sense says

    Grumpy doctor has heart; laughs for teens and up.

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 13–15

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Becker is cynical and insensitive, but the show also presents strong loyalty among co-workers and friends. Characters are of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds; some are disabled. The show tackles issues surrounding underserved communities, including poverty and lack of medical care. Ethical issues surrounding medical practices are also dealt with; boundaries are pushed to provide health services to the needy, but the medical code of ethics isn't violated. Becker is an outspoken atheist.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    References to violence, including gang violence, but all within the context of receiving medical treatment.

  • Sex:

    Contains sexual innuendo (which may go over the head of young viewers); many of the characters are single, so plenty of dating/relationship talk, too. Some making out, but no simulated sex acts.

  • Language:

    Mild: "Bitch," "damn," "crap," etc.

  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Frequent adult smoking and drinking. Prescription drugs are discussed within the context of a patient's medical needs.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Becker

Parents need to know that this sitcom's main character is a grumpy doctor who smokes, drinks, and uses a lot of insults to make his point -- not exactly ideal role model behavior. But he also cares about his patients and does everything he can as a medical professional to help them live healthy lives. Parents should also know that this show addresses strong issues -- such as terminal illness, racism, and terrorism -- that may be too sensitive for younger viewers.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about the role of medical professionals in our daily lives. Do you like the way doctors treat you when you see them? Why are some people who really need medical treatment unable to afford it? Families can also talk about how people go about discussing the things that bother them. What does it mean to be politically correct? When can political correctness go too far? Do you think people like Becker ever say things just to make people angry? What purpose does that serve?
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Most Recent Reviews

  1. Teen Reviewer Age 14
    habibid9421
    Lives in South Carolina
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 5.0

    lol

    ha ha

    This review...

    Helped me decide | Had useful details | Read my mind
    Flag as inappropriate
  2. Teen Reviewer Age 15
    wolfbear87
    Lives in Virginia
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 3.0

    This review...

    Helped me decide | Had useful details | Read my mind
    Flag as inappropriate

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