 | ON: Content is age-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. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
All in the Family
- Syndicated, TV Land
- Genre: Comedy
Common Sense Media says
Landmark '70s sitcom lightens bias with humor.
Parents say
QUALITY
Kids say
QUALITY
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this landmark sitcom features a main character who is racist and homophobic -- and was recognized as such even when the show initially aired in the '70s. Archie's bigotry is used to highlight serious social topics like rape, breast cancer, and homosexuality in a humorous, thoughtful, ultimately positive way. Racially charged language (like the n-word) is sometimes used. In one episode, a guest character is killed by an explosion in the distance.
What's the story?
Starring Carroll O'Connor as "loveable bigot" Archie Bunker, groundbreaking 1970s sitcom ALL IN THE FAMILY topped the ratings during much of its original nine-year run and has justifiably earned a spot in the TV hall of fame. Archie Bunker was a prejudiced, blue-collar white guy from Queens whose socially conservative opinions clashed frequently, and hilariously, with those of his lefty son-in-law Mike "Meathead" Stivic (Rob Reiner) and his daughter, Gloria (Sally Struthers). His long-suffering spouse, Edith (Jean Stapleton), was a traditional wife who usually deferred to her husband, even tolerating his pet name for her: "Dingbat." Episodes typically addressed Archie's bigotry, putting him in situations where he has to confront his prejudices. For example, in one show, Archie travels with Mike and Gloria on the subway back from a visit to the Bronx, where the couple was looking at a house. On the train, Archie warns Gloria not to sit next to "preverts" or winos, and he alludes to the Bronx being a place where African Americans live -- and therefore, using his logic, not a neighborhood for white people like Mike and Gloria.
Is it any good?
Before All in the Family, serious political and social topics like homosexuality, rape, racism, and women's rights weren't discussed on a network comedy show. Though Archie expressed his beliefs frequently, his illogical reasoning and hilarious malapropisms seriously decreased their impact. And Edith was funny, too -- her simple nature allowed for some humorous misunderstandings. In some episodes, Archie uses the "N" word and other derogatory terms for African Americans and gay people. It's worth noting that O'Connor went on to star in the show In the Heat of the Night, in which he played a wise, tolerant sheriff in the Deep South. Obviously, Archie's intolerance was all an act -- and an excellent one, at that (O'Connor earned eight Emmy nominations for the role and won four times).
Families might enjoy watching All in the Family together, although it may seem too dated for the younger set. Much of what was considered risqué in the 1970s seems modest by today's standards (the sound of a toilet flushing had never been heard on primetime before this series). Parents will probably want to discuss Archie's prejudices with younger folks to help them put it in context and understand the subtleties of the show's humor.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about race and prejudice. How have discussions of race changed since this show began? How are they the same? What kinds of racial divisions do kids notice in their school? Have kids ever heard someone use a racial epithet? What do kids think about Archie's bigotry? Is this a racist show? Is it the media's job to bring attention to issues like prejudice? How do today's media tackle these topics?
- Show:
- All members
- Parents
- Teens & kids
AGE
Not for kids under 15!
The only reason I put 15 as the limit is because I don't believe anyone under that age could appreciate the full humor of the show. Archie is a bigot, yet sometimes lovable.
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AGE
it FUNNY.
but shouldn't be shown to kids under The age of 11
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Kid, 11 years old
July 8, 2011
AGE
Another great show from the 20th century...WHAT HAVE I BEEN MISSING?!
This show is just another awesome 20th century icon! I can't believe what I've been missing! But no kid under 10 should be watching it, and kids 10-12 usually should be accompanied by a parent/responsible adult. Archie never fails to bring out a laugh, but he is also a bit racist with might concern some parents. There's a few insults like "dummy" and idiot, and some mild swearing.
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AGE
Great Show
Well, even though im a kid, i love this show. Archie is a good role model with his conservatism.
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AGE
My parents and grandparents love this show. I can see why! The humor is great and serious topics are shown in a light manner. Great show for anyone!
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AGE
it funny
this show is funny while it can be sad at the sme time but it is the best show to ever be on television
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AGE
One of the funniest shows ever
While this is great kids under 10 may not understand the humor and find it boring
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| TV rating: | TV-PG |
| Networks: | Syndicated, TV Land |
| Cast: | Carroll O'Connor, Jean Stapleton, Rob Reiner |
| Genre: | Comedy |
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