Everybody Hates Chris - TV-PG
TV Rating: TV-PG
Network: CW Cast: Tyler James Williams, Tichina Arnold, Terry Crews
Genre: Comedy
Available on: 
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Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that the show's themes are too mature for younger kids. Chris's parents make empty threats when their kids get into trouble, but comments are portrayed in a comedic light and aren't meant to be taken seriously. There are jokes about drugs (becoming a "crackhead") and the "N" word has been used sparingly. Some mild kissing and jokes about teen pregnancy.
Families can talk about the kind of issues explored on the show versus those on more conventional sitcoms. How prevalent is the type of obvious racism depicted on the show? Are Chris's parents realistic about how they punish him? Can your kids point out what has changed, if anything, between the time in which this sitcom takes place, and now?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Marjorie Kase
EVERYBODY HATES CHRIS is about the trials and tribulations of 14-year-old Chris (Tyler James Williams) -- and many, many real-life issues, such as dealing with strict parents, constantly being picked on by a racist bully at school, and having a more popular, better-looking, taller, younger brother.
Based on the memories of comedian Chris Rock's childhood in Brooklyn, the early '80s-set show puts an unusual spin on the usual sitcom formula. Rock narrates, there's no laugh track, and stories deal humorously with real issues. Chris's parents work multiple jobs and still struggle to pay the bills, all while making sure their kids get a good education and stay on the straight and narrow.
Chris doesn't shy away from addressing racial stereotypes. For example, much is made over the fact that Chris's father, unlike most other families on the block, is still around to support the family financially and emotionally. The show even goes as far as to mention the "n" word, one a conventional sitcom wouldn't dare utter without the program being considered a "very special episode."
Everybody Hates Chris is a prime example of taking serious issues and approaching them in a humorous yet thought provoking way. The series is innovative, funny, and stereotype-defying -- enjoyable and funny for teens and their parents.
Other popular family sitcoms to check out include Malcolm in the Middle, The Bernie Mac Show, and Roseanne.
Rate It!
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ViolenceChris gets into occasional fights at school (most are started by a bully). In one episode, he accidentally breaks his brother's hand after taking a karate class. Mom Rochelle often threatens her kids with physical punishment, but she never follows through (it's all played for laughs). |
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LanguageThe "N" word is used sparingly. Other mild language includes "hell," "damn," and "ass." |
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Social BehaviorChris's parents work hard and do what's right for their kids, teaching them the value of family, money, and hard work. |
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CommercialismSome episodes involve Chris wanting particular items, but none are name brands. One episode revolves around an issue of Playboy. |
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Drug/Alcohol/TobaccoReferences to becoming a "crackhead" after a character almost fails a math test. |
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