Numb3rs
Parents say
Based on 8 reviews
Kids say
Based on 14 reviews
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Numb3rs
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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 Numb3rs is a crime drama that regularly includes scenes in which violent acts such as murder are committed, and they can be pretty gory (think CSI, rather than Bones). In one episode, for example, a woman is strangled and pulled into bushes, her feet twitching, and then the perpetrator walks away, leaving bloody footprints.
Community Reviews
Good for learning about math, but definitely not for kids!
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Will introduce adults and teenagers to a new way of thinking about math.
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What's the Story?
In CBS' procedural drama NUMB3RS, a team of FBI agents and investigators use mathematical formulas and forensic evidence to help solve L.A.-area crimes. Rob Morrow stars as Don Eppes, a FBI agent who uses his brother, Charlie (David Krumholtz), a mathematical genius and professor, to help him solve some of the bureau's toughest cases. Don deals with the evidence in each case, while Charlie relies on mathematical equations and probability. The pair, both bachelors, live with their father, Alan (Judd Hirsch), and work alongside eccentric problem-solver Dr. Larry Fleinhardt (Peter MacNicol), and dogged FBI agents Megan Reeves (Diane Farr) and Colby Granger (Dylan Bruno).
Is It Any Good?
This series is a refreshing take on the primetime crime drama. The storylines are current (in one episode, an Iraqi woman attempting to out Saddam's henchmen is murdered) and the acting is quite good. Viewers get a rare glimpse into the inner workings of the FBI and the unusual ways its agents go about solving crimes. If teens can get past the sometimes violent crime scenes, they'll find Numb3rs highly enjoyable.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how the characters in Numb3rs use math to help solve crimes. Does this make math a more appealing subject for teens? Can you think of other ways math might come into play in adult life?
Families can also talk about why people commit crimes and whether the punishments they receive are appropriate. Kids might also like discussing law enforcement as a career. Is that something that interests them? If so, what particular kind of role could they see themselves filling?
TV Details
- Premiere date: January 23, 2005
- Cast: David Krumholtz, Judd Hirsch, Rob Morrow
- Network: CBS
- Genre: Drama
- TV rating: TV-PG
- Last updated: October 13, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
For kids who love smart dramas
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