Grey's Anatomy
Parents say
Based on 80 reviews
Kids say
Based on 333 reviews
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Grey's Anatomy
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Grey's Anatomy is an addictive primetime drama meant for an adult audience and that has many adult themes, including sexual relationships among most of the show's characters, in addition to copious blood and occasionally graphic surgeries. There's some mild language, too, and characters often turn to alcohol to relieve occupational stress. For adults who like medical soap operas, it's an excellent choice; just make sure the kids are asleep first.
Community Reviews
Depends on maturity
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Ages like a fine wine.
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What's the Story?
GREY'S ANATOMY is a hospital-set dramedy that follows the lives of five interns (who, over the course of the series, become full-fledged doctors) as they adjust to their new surroundings at Seattle Grace Hospital. The series' opening scene takes place during the awkward morning after a one-night stand between the show's namesake, Meredith Grey (Ellen Pompeo), and neurosurgeon Dr. Derek "McDreamy" Shepherd (Patrick Dempsey) -- who, as it turns out, also works at the hospital. From there, the story evolves to include other interns, tenured doctors and the various patients they treat.
Is It Any Good?
The show's writers have proven that they're not above ridiculous plotlines involving ghost sex, a patient who wants butt implants, or a crazy man walking around with a bomb inside his body. But aside from the soapy, sexual overtones, what has so many people hooked on Grey's Anatomy is the complexity of its characters. So while Meredith is beautiful and smart, she's also remarkably flawed -- and as the series goes on, her story only deepens.
The same can be said for other ensemble members: For example, while Cristina (Sandra Oh) provides most of the comic relief through cunning wit and side-splitting dialogue, she, too, goes through life-altering moments. Over time, these are characters you become attached to -- and grow to love.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about relationships that take place in the workplace (or in high school or college classes), like those on Grey's Anatomy. Are these types of relationships a good idea? What are the negative consequences of getting romantically involved with someone you work closely with?
How accurately does the show portray the medical profession? Do you think the bed-hopping and personal problems are overblown for the sake of ratings, or is it rooted in reality?
How does this medical soap compare to others like it on the air, or even those that have come before it, such as ER?
How do the characters on Grey's Anatomy demonstrate compassion and empathy? Why are those important character strengths?
TV Details
- Premiere date: March 27, 2005
- Cast: Ellen Pompeo, Patrick Dempsey, Sandra Oh
- Network: ABC
- Genre: Drama
- Character Strengths: Compassion, Empathy
- TV rating: TV-14
- Last updated: February 6, 2023
Our Editors Recommend
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Scrubs
Goofy medical comedy with heart; for older teens.
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ER
Excellent, but the ER is no place for children.
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Private Practice
Grey's spin-off is entertaining, but for adults only.
For kids who love drama
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