Hank (ABC)

common sense media says

Kelsey Grammer puts a comic spin on starting over.


parents & educators say

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this sitcom about a sophisticated New York City family that moves to small-town Virginia to rebuild their lives after the economic downturn mixes some typical sitcom dsyfunction with positive themes about starting over and reconnecting with loved ones. Expect some salty  (“bastards," “damn," “hell”), sexual innuendo, and drinking (mostly beer). Hank and his family sometimes make snobby/classist remarks about the residents of their new town, though it's all played for humor.

Positive messages: The series highlights the idea that you can start over after losing everything. While there's some typical sitcom family dysfunction, it also focuses on the importance of parents relating to their kids. On the downside, occasional put downs/stereotypes are used in relation to the local residents of small-town River Bend.
Positive role models: He isn’t always good at it, but Hank is definitely trying to reconnect with his wife and children after living a life dedicated to the corporate world. A self-made man and a hard worker, he also has a very positive attitude about starting over. The family (especially Tilly) misses the wealthier lifestyle they had in New York City.
Violence: Some mild arguing.
Sex: Some strong sexual innuendo, with Hank making frequent comments about having (and not having) sex. Hank and Tilly are also sometimes shown in bed together, but no sexual activity beyond kissing is shown.
Language: Audible language includes “bastard, “damn,” and “hell."
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Beer is visible. References to champagne drinking.

More on Hank

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
  • Families can talk about how realistic most sitcom families seem. Do the Pryors seem like people you know? Do other sitcom families?
  • Is it ever appropriate to use stereotypes as a source of humor? Why or why not?
  • What do you think it would be like to move from an upscale urban environment to a remote country home? What are some of the benefits of living in the country vs. the city? Drawbacks?

What's the story?

What's the story?
Hank Pryor (Kelsey Grammer) is a self-made CEO who loses everything after the hostile takeover of his company. Hoping to relaunch his career, he moves his wife, Tilly (Melinda McGraw); his moody teenage daughter, Maddie (Jordan Hinson); and  his eccentric son, Henry (Nathan Gamble) back to their hometown of River Bend, Virginia. Despite his “can do” attitude, Hank soon discovers that it isn’t easy leaving the glitz and glamour of New York City behind, especially when he has to live near his brother-in-law, Grady (David Koechner), a contractor who seems delighted about Hank's recent failure. Hank also has to find a way to relate to his children, who don't respond well to his corporate-like way of thinking. But Hank is up to facing these challenges with a positive spirit and plans to re-establish himself as soon as possible.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
HANK puts a comic spin on the downsizing that many families have dealt with as a consequence of today’s economic climate. Although the idea of losing everything and starting over isn’t usually very funny, Grammer’s trademark quick and intelligent banter makes the show entertaining. 

It's smartly written, but expect some sexual innuendo and robust language that aren't intended for younger viewers. Some of the stereotypical remarks about country living -- although intended to spark laughs -- are a bit iffy, too  But overall, the series offers positive messages about starting over and appreciating family. 

TV themes & details

TV Details
TV Rating: TV-PG
Network: ABC
Cast: David Koechner, Kelsey Grammer, Melinda McGraw
Genre: Comedy
Where to watch: ABC

This review was written by Melissa Camacho
 
 

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Comprehensive for age12+ under if enlightened
You guys are looking great in writing and directing, keep the laughs coming, thanks

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