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Bosom Buddies

(Rated TV-PG, Comedy, Starring Tom Hanks, Peter Scolari, Wendy Jo Sperber, Where to watch: TBS, Syndicated, DVD)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 9, age appropriate for kids over 11; suggested age 11.

  • Is it any good?

    3.0

  • Common Sense says

    Classic Tom Hanks sitcom isn't a drag.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 11 and Up

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    Features men dressing as women (and subsequently deceiving their friends) to be able to live in a cheap apartment. The few ethnically diverse characters are often criminals or service workers (except for Telma Hopkins' Isabelle). The show also plays to dated gender stereotypes, including references to "dumb blondes." On the plus side, the main characters usually mean well, and the show presents a strong relationship between childhood friends.

  • Violence:

    Some shoving and pushing, but these actions don't cause any real harm.

  • Sex:

    Some lighthearted sexual innuendo (which all seems pretty tame by today's standards), which will probably go over the heads of younger viewers. Subtle references to homosexuality.

  • Language:

    Not an issue.

  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Some limited adult consumption of wine, beer, and tobacco products.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Bosom Buddies

Parents need to know that this '80s sitcom (which still airs in syndication) centers around two men who pretend to be women in order to live in a cheap apartment. While their donning of drag isn't sexually motivated, it is dishonest -- although the dishonesty angle is downplayed in favor of wacky hijinks. The show also demonstrates some dated gender stereotyping, and the dialogue has its share of sexual innuendo (most of which should go over the heads of young viewers). Kip and Henry's relationship is a good example of a strong, positive friendship between men.

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Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about the different ways that gender is presented in the media. Why do so many shows and movies fall back on stereotypes when dealing with gender issues? Issues of honesty and ethics are also relevant. Do you think what Kip and Henry are doing is right? What other alternatives do they have? Families can also discuss the importance of friendship. Do you think you could live with your best friend? What kinds of challenges would you face?
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