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The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson

(Rated TV-14, Comedy, Starring Craig Ferguson, Where to watch: CBS, Online)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 13, age appropriate for kids over 16; suggested age 14.

  • Is it any good?

    3.0

  • Common Sense says

    Late-night humor with a Scottish flair; aimed at adults.

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 14–16

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    The series pokes fun at a variety of issues, but Ferguson has also used the show to share his feelings about more serious topics such as the loss of his parents, becoming an American citizen, and staying sober.

  • Role models:

    While Ferguson is certainly no stranger to sly jokes, he's not overly mean-spirited, and he has refused to make jokes at the expense of celebrities struggling with addiction. Ferguson is a Scottish immigrant who has become a proud American citizen.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Not an issue.

  • Sex:

    Some of Ferguson’s monologues and some interviews contain some strong sexual innuendo. References to issues like sexual harassment (usually in a humorous way). Skits/sequences can include images such as a shirtless man in tight leather pants.

  • Language:

    Words like “ass," "damn," and “hell” are audible. Stronger words, including profanity spoken in other languages, are bleeped. Silly bathroom humor includes words like “fart”.

  • Consumerism:

    The series is a promotional vehicle for celebrities and musicians.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Ferguson is a recovering alcoholic and occasionally talks about his journey to sobriety (during one episode, he refused to make jokes about Britney Spears’ problems with addiction).
 

What Parents Need to Know

About The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson

Parents need to know that this late-night show, hosted by Scottish-born comedian Craig Ferguson, offers lots of fun but adult-oriented humor. Expect a fair bit of sexual innuendo and salty language (words like “ass," "damn," and “hell” are audible, while stronger words are bleeped). Ferguson is a recovering alcoholic and occasionally talks about his addiction (and his sobriety). Episodes have also included serious discussions about topics like the death of his parents and becoming a naturalized citizen. Note: Most teens who watch late-night shows like this check them out on a "time-shift" basis via DVR or online clips, rather than at the original 11:30 p.m.-or-later air time -- which is better for their sleep habits!

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about what makes a late-night TV talk show successful. Is it the host? The jokes? The guests?
  • How do late-night shows influence other areas of the media?
  • What are the differences between American-style humor and European-style humor? Which do you like better?
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Most Recent Reviews

  1. Teen Reviewer Age 15
    aobaru
    I rate this title on for age 14 and give it 5.0
    My concerns are:
    • Inappropriate language

    Craig Ferguson is absolutely hilarious, but I wouldn't recommend it for anyone under 14 due to language and innuendos.

    This review...

    Helped me decide | Had useful details | Read my mind
    Flag as inappropriate
  2. Parent Reviewer
    docpainter
    Lives in Minnesota
    I rate this title iffy for age 13 and give it 5.0
    My concerns are:
    • Inappropriate sexual content
    • Inappropriate language

    the funniest of the late night talk shows

    It's a late night talk show, full of sexual jokes. Ferguson is very charming and lovable.

    This review...

    Helped me decide | Had useful details | Read my mind
    Flag as inappropriate

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