New Girl

TV review by Melissa Camacho, Common Sense Media
New Girl Poster Image

Common Sense says

age 14+

Heartwarming roommate comedy with innuendo, drinking.

Fox Comedy 2011
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Parents say

age 14+

Based on 23 reviews

Kids say

age 13+

Based on 84 reviews

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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 this heartwarming sitcom contains some strong sexual content, including references to stripping, having sex, and infidelity. Cast members are shown partially dressed, in their underwear, and at times, wearing nothing (though private parts are not visible). Drinking (beer, wine, cocktails) and iffy language ("ass," "damn," "douche bag") are frequent.

Community Reviews

imiepottsthomas
imiepottsthomas Adult
April 15, 2022
age 15+

This title has:

Great messages
Too much sex
Elizabeth G.
Elizabeth G. Adult
October 25, 2021
age 14+

Sweet show, but lots of mature sexual content

I watched this with my 12 year old and I really think he was too young. But we were already pretty far along when I realized this. The benefit is that it gave me a chance to discuss some of the issues that come up in the show, including masturbation, casual sex, dating, and what is realistic for life as an adult (hint: not this show). For instance, one episode is called "Bansgiving" where everyone is trying to have sex with people on Thanksgiving. Schmidt, while he ultimately becomes a sweat heart, talks about having sex with women in degrading ways. There is a LOT of casual sex. That said, the characters are sweet, many of them grow and change for the better, and people on the show do care for each other. I'd suggest watching it with your child if you are going to watch so you can discuss what comes up on the show.

This title has:

Too much sex
See all 23 parent reviews

What's the Story?

NEW GIRL stars actress/singer Zooey Deschanel as Jessica Day, a dorky but lovable twentysomething woman looking for a new place to live after she discovers that her live-in boyfriend of seven years is cheating on her. Luckily she meets three single guys -- sensitive Nick Miller (Jake Johnson), obnoxious Schmidt (Max Greenfield), and athletic Winston Bishop (Lamorne Morris) -- who have a fantastic apartment and a room to rent. Adjusting to a female roommate isn't easy for the guys, but helping them get used to her is Ce Ce (Hannah Simone), Jess' best friend, who also happens to be a beautiful model. Together they create a fun and rather dysfunctional family.

Is It Any Good?

This lighthearted series offers some well-timed witty moments thanks to Deschanel's performance. The group dynamic between the men is funny, too. Some of the more slapstick jokes seem to fall a little flat, but this is part of the show's overall charm.

Thanks to its focus on dating, romance, and sex, New Girl contains lots of mature subject matter. But the show's overall focus on friendship makes it a heartwarming entertainment choice for those old enough to handle it.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about what makes a TV show funny. Is it the writing? The acting? The timing? Are there things that you think TV shows and films portray as being funny, when they really aren't? Why not?

  • What kind of limitations, if any, should be placed on showing drinking on television?

TV Details

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Themes & Topics

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