See more TV reviews

Free Radio (VH1)

common sense media says

Edgy mock docu mixes improv laughs, insults.

parents & educators say
Be the first to review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that some viewers may find the humor of this improvisational "mockumentary" comedy -- which follows an inexperienced radio host who becomes popular due to his silly, tactless, and often offensive on-air commentary -- insensitive rather than funny. Expect some strong sexual innuendo, references to violence, and salty language ("bitch," "ass"). There are frequent quest appearances by celebrities like Kiefer Sutherland.

Positive messages: Lance has good intentions, but he consistently makes silly, foolish, and insulting remarks on and off the air. His popularity is a result of his buffoonery, and management exploits him because of it. The KBOM staff is male and female and Caucasian. Guests are male and female and from various ethic/racial backgrounds and sexual orientations.
Violence: Guests occasionally threaten to slap, punch, or knock Lance out as a result of his foolish remarks during interviews.
Sex: Some strong sexual innuendo, including homoerotic references. Women are sometimes referred to as "chicks," and Lance requests women with "big boobs" on his billboards. One guest imitates a commercial for a feminine hygiene product. Some of the artists seen on posters are wearing revealing clothing. Veronica rubs and spanks her buttocks after trying on some underwear and invites others to spank her (but not in a violent context). Discussions of lesbians and "three ways."
Language: Audible language includes words like "bitch" and "ass." Stronger terms are bleeped out (even those spoken in Indonesian). Words like "moron" and "boob" are used to describe Lance, and words like "nuts," "wiener," "dick," and "package" are used to describe male genitalia.
Consumerism: Guest appearances by celebrities include Kiefer Sutherland, Jack Coleman, Angela Kinsey, etc. References are made to other personalities, like Christopher Walken, Wanda Sykes, and Carson Daly. Pictures of music celebs are seen in the background, and music from various bands is featured throughout the episode (and available on VH1's Web site). Spanx undergarments are featured in one episode.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Occasional references to alcohol.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Free Radio

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about intentionally rude or insensitive behavior in TV shows (particularly comedies). What's the difference between "poking fun" at someone and being insulting? Is it OK for comedies to cross the line between the two? Who decides what's funny and what's just plain rude? Families can also talk about the mockumentary genre. What kinds of things make these comedies look or sound like real documentaries? Does anything make it obvious that they're not?

What's the story?

What's the story?
FREE RADIO is an improv comedy series about Lance (Lance Krall), a rather dimwitted radio intern who, after the station's popular shock jock leaves for another gig, becomes the host of his own show, "Moron in the Morning." Along with weather-girl-turned-co-host Anna (Anna Vocino), Lance interviews A-list guests ranging from TV stars to fashion trendsetters. His awful interviewing skills -- which usually result in ridiculous gaffes, on-air temper tantrums, and insulted celebs -- make him pretty hard to take seriously. But, much to the dismay of station manager James Reed (Brian Huskey), Lance's serious lack of talent scores major ratings.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
This mockumentary-style series features lots of subtle humor resulting from reactions to Lance's foolish commentary. The best moments actually come from the celebrity guests' responses to the actor's improvisational style. But some viewers might find Lance's remarks too insensitive to be funny.

Free Radio isn't an age-appropriate choice for young kids or even young teens, especially since it includes some strong sexual innuendo and some salty language. But for viewers mature enough to handle it, the series offers some great entertainment.

TV themes & details

TV Details
TV Rating: NR
Network: VH1
Cast: Anna Vocino, Brian Huskey, Lance Krall
Genre: Comedy
Where to watch: VH1
This review was written by Melissa Camacho
 
 

Review It

 

Review Free Radio

Hang on! You need to be a member to post your review.
A safe community is important to us. Please observe our guidelines.
 

There aren’t any reviews yet. Ask your friends to review this title.

More reviews ...

An independent voice for families
Age-appropriate reviews
Advice on the big issues
 

vote now

Will you see Free Radio?

Won't miss it
We'll try
Change it

Already seen it? What do you think?

I recommend it
It's a pass
 

Great alternatives handpicked by our editors

Browse more TV
About our rating system
ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age
Our child development rating guidelines