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Bewitched (Syndicated)

common sense media says

Classic sitcom about twitchy-nosed witch still entertains.

parents & educators say
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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that classic sitcom Bewitched -- which revolves around a witch trying to live a regular mortal life in American suburbia -- reflects the values of the time, including some now-dated ideas about men and women's roles in society. Witchcraft is often used to both create conflict and resolve problems, and there's occasional cigar smoking and drinking (by adults). The tensions surrounding societal changes in America over the course of the show's run are subtly addressed -- but all of that will probably go over kids' head as they giggle at the nose twitches and silly scenarios.

Positive messages: Though the series is positive and upbeat and emphasizes the importance of family, it also reflects the values of its time, including now-dated gender roles. That said, there's lso some subtle reflection of the changing social attitudes that took place during the 1960s and early '70s.
Positive role models: Samantha is clever and resourceful -- even though that often means using magic despite her husband's disapproval. Speaking of Darrin, he can exhibit some pretty sexist attitudes (though theyr'e fairly accurate for the show's original time period). Samantha’s relatives disapprove of her "mixed marriage" and often try to create problems between her and Darrin.
Violence: Some of the gags are physical (falls, etc.), but they're not violent.
Sex: Samantha and Darrin were one of the first TV couples to sleep together in the same bed. Samantha is pregnant during some seasons. Occasionally the two are shown hugging or lightly kissing each other.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Occasionally men are shown smoking cigars (accurate for the era). Hard liquor and cocktails are sometimes visible. Sometimes magical spells make characters act a little "tipsy."
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Bewitched

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
  • Families can talk about how women's changing role in society has been depicted in the media over the years. How has that portrayal changed in the time since this show originally aired?
  • Why do some TV shows stay popular after major changes (like recasting key roles) while others lose viewers? Do you think it's a matter of luck, or are there other reasons?
  • If you had magical powers, do you think you'd be able to stop yourself from using them? Why or why not?

What's the story?

What's the story?
Samantha (Elizabeth Montgomery) is a witch who marries mortal Darrin Stephens (played by both Dick York and Dick Sargent) and tries to live a normal life in the suburbs. Despite her promise to Darrin not to use witchcraft, Samantha often finds herself casting spells with a twitch of her nose -- usually to undo the magical chaos created by meddlesome family members like her mother, Endora (Agnes Moorehead), and her Uncle Arthur (Paul Lynde). Their children, Tabitha (Erin Diane Murphy) and Adam (David Greg Lawrence), also inherit some witchy powers -- and further complicating things are Darrin’s overanxious boss, Larry Tate (David White), and the family’s nosy neighbor, Gladys Kravitz (played by both Alice Pearce and Sandra Gould). It gets pretty hectic, but Samantha always manages to work it all out in the end.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

BEWITCHED, which originally aired from 1964 to 1972, mixes supernatural fun with traditional family values and gender roles. But despite its focus on Samantha’s domestic role, the show does reflect some of the cultural changes of the time. Witches and witchcraft became metaphors for discussing contemporary issues like racial discrimination. Meanwhile, Samantha’s clothing -- which changed from classic ‘50s fashions to more hippie-like attire over the years -- offered subtle commentary about the country’s social transformation.

A testament to the show’s popularity is its longevity despite major modifications, including going from black and white to Technicolor and re-casting Darrin halfway through its eight-year run. And despite the fact that some of it now feels very dated, today’s Bewitched fans can still find humor in the show’s running gags. All of these things make the series -- along with Samantha’s unique nose twitch -- a memorable part of American TV culture.

TV themes & details

TV Details
TV Rating: TV-G
Network: Syndicated
Cast: Dick Sargent, Dick York, Elizabeth Montgomery
Genre: Comedy
Where to watch: Syndicated
This review was written by Melissa Camacho
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

lertie
kid, 13 years old
7
 
Almost as good as Gilligan's Island, but not great for little kids.
Bewitched is a great show, I like it a lot. Samantha is a good role model, she keeps peace between Darrin and her other family members (usually her mother). Samantha's Aunt Clara (Marion Lorne) is funny, she often accidentally screws up her spells and that causes even more trouble. Amazing special effects, objects float around and people levitate and fly and dissapear and all that fun stuff. I noticed that Darrin doesn't mind witchcraft as long as it's benefiting him, with the exception of promoting his ideas at the advertising agency. The show's not so great for little kids because people are often shown smoking and drinking. Sometimes Darrin and Samantha are shown kissing. Other than that, it's almost as good as Gilligan's Island(why don't these people have a review for that?)
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erraggarn98
kid, 13 years old
7
 
Has the wife as the slave and the Husband as the ruler
A lot of kissing and a lot of alchohol. But very charming and easy-going.
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FooZirc
kid, 12 years old
6
 
I love Bewitched!!!!
I LOVE this show!!!!!!!!!!! I watch it all the time!
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rebma97
teen, 14 years old
7
 
Charming show
This is a nice TV series about a witch who marries a mortal. He wants her to not use magic, but sometimes she does, and get family members (particularly he'd mother, whom I like :D) doesn't like the mortal (Darrin). Sex envolves kissing, but nothing more. There is occasional drinking and smoking, but it was okay for a kids' show back then. This show is like I Dream of Jeanie, but that show is slightly edgier (because of the innuendo and revealing outfits). Although I think this show is just okay, it's still nice.
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happylert
kid, 13 years old
7
 
Awesome show for kids that understand that drinking is bad!
I really love this show! It's almost as good as Gilligan's Island. However, it isn't the best for really little kids because of drinking influence, and they may not understand all the jokes (I still don't!)
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hrhphd
kid, 12 years old
2
 
good for any age
Really funny! haha!
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