The Brady Bunch - TV-G
TV Rating: TV-G
Network: Syndicated Cast: Maureen McCormick, Florence Henderson, Barry Williams
Genre: Comedy
Available on: 
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Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that although this is one of TV's most iconic shows, modern kids aren't likely to enjoy it as much as their predecessors did. It might seem dull when compared with much of today's flashy, quick-witted, fast-paced kids' TV. But those who give it a chance might find some nice life lessons buried beneath the cheese.
Families can talk about what (and who) should define a family. Parents and step-parents can also discuss the challenges of combining two families. How can new family members find ways to relate to one another? Why is it sometimes hard for kids to accept a step-parent? Do you think the Bradys' family harmony is realistic?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Lucy Maher
In the iconic '70s sitcom THE BRADY BUNCH, a blended family tackles all sorts of life challenges together, neatly wrapping up even the toughest problems in half-hour doses.
As the ultra-catchy theme song explains, when widowed architect Mike Brady (Robert Reed) met Carol Martin (Florence Henderson), he knew immediately that she and her three girls -- Marcia (Maureen McCormick), Jan (Eve Plumb), and Cindy (Susan Olsen) -- were a perfect fit for him and his three sons, Greg (Barry Williams), Peter (Christopher Knight), and Bobby (Mike Lookinland). Also along for the ride is chipper housekeeper Alice (Ann B. Davis).
Early in the series, the Bradys learn to deal with their new living arrangements. This plays out in episodes in which the boys and girls fight over bathroom time and chores. In later seasons (the show ran for five years, from 1969 to 1974), the kids deal with personal issues revolving around dating, cliques, and identity.
In one episode, for example, Jan receives a locket from a secret admirer -- but it eventually turns out that Alice actually sent the locket as a way to make Jan, the middle child, feel special. In another episode, sibling rivalry is on full display as the sisters and brothers battle it out over who is the hardier sex.
Adults will no doubt watch The Brady Bunch with nostalgic fondness, remembering when they first watched the Bradys build a card house, go to Hawaii, or camp in the Grand Canyon. Parents eager for some quality TV may have fun revisiting their favorite episodes with younger viewers, but kids past the tween stage may not see the appeal quite as much.
Fans might also like The Partridge Family and Step by Step.
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Sexual ContentThe Brady kids go on dates, but they're about as innocent as can be. |
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Social BehaviorSends the message that even when you don't like them, your family is number one. Sure, the kids squabble and get jealous of one another sometimes (particularly Jan of Marcia) -- but it always works out thanks to Mom and Dad. |
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