The Oprah Winfrey Show

 Review

Common Sense Media says

Long-running talk show boasts powerful host, stories.
greenON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age.
yellowPAUSE: Know your child; some content
may not be right for some kids.
redOFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age.
not for kidsNOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age.

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Quality
 
Sometimes media can be age appropriate but a real waste of time. Our star rating assesses the media's overall quality.

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Parents say

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Kids say

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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that while many episodes of this extremely popular talk show are upbeat and light, some deal with very mature themes -- including sexual assault, domestic violence, and child molestation. Many of these stories are offered within a context of survival and enlightenment. Special-event episodes feature Oprah giving away lots of brand-name stuff, and it's a guarantee that if she likes something, it will sell like hotcakes. Many regular guests, like Dr. Phil McGraw, end up getting their own shows and/or publishing books. The language is pretty mild overall, but words like “hell” and “damn” are sometimes audible.

  • Over the years, the series has evolved from a tabloid talk show to a series that offers well-intentioned advice and guidance about wellness and self-improvement.
  • Winfrey -- the first African-American syndicated talk show host -- has become a powerful role model for her legions of fans; when she endorses or advocates something, it's bound to succeed. (Luckily, she usually uses her influence for positive reasons!) The show also features other experts who offer sincere life-coaching and therapeutic guidance.
  • Guests often discuss violent events that have impacted their lives. Special episodes have also dealt with issues like sexual assault, domestic violence, and how to protect yourself from violent crime.
  • Topics range from healthy sexual relationships to discussions about sexual violence. Oprah has openly addressed her experiences with both molestation and teen pregnancy.
  • Words like “damn” and “hell” are audible.
  • Specific episodes feature Oprah discussing and/or giving away brand-name items like MAC cosmetics, Sony Camcorders, Samsung phones, LG refrigerators, Pontiac cars, and many more. Some guests who make regular appearances (like Dr. Mehmet Oz and Dr. Phil McGraw), ultimately score their own books and TV shows. The show's popularity has led to the creation of a branded tie-in book club, a nonprofit charitable organization, a talk radio channel, a magazine, and a cable network.
  • Drug and alcohol addiction are sometiems topics of discussion. Episodes have featured Oprah talking about her brief use of an illegal drug. Occasional champagne consumption.

What's the story?

THE OPRAH WINFREY SHOW is a syndicated daytime talk show hosted by media mogul Oprah Winfrey. Since 1986, the popular series has featured guests ranging from major pop culture icons like Michael Jackson and Madonna to authors, life coaches, therapists, and even past and future American presidents like Bill Clinton and Barack Obama. Regular guests -- including Dr. Phil McGraw, Dr. Mehmet Oz, and Winfrey's best friend, Gayle King -- also stop by frequently. The show addresses a wide array of topics, ranging from controversial current events to spirituality and self-improvement.


Is it any good?

 

The show, which is the longest running and highest rated syndicated talk show in American history, owes much of its longevity to Winfrey, who transformed the series from a tabloid-like talk show to one that tackles difficult and often controversial topics while still emphasizing positive thinking, self-reflection, and self-improvement. Winfrey’s willingness to share personal issues like her battles with weight, drugs, and childhood abuse have also made her appealing.

The show's success has led to the creation of a book club, a
nonprofit charitable organization, a talk radio channel, a magazine,
and a cable network, all bearing the name of its host. However, it has also created some controversy. Winfrey -- who is the first African-American nationally syndicated talk show host -- has been accused of turning her back on the African-American community. And her willingness to openly offer her opinions about specific issues has led to some legal battles. Despite all of this, Winfrey has managed to entertain and inspire audiences all over the world.


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What families can talk about

  • Families can talk about why Oprah has been so successful over the years. What is it about her that makes her so popular? What does she do (or not do) that has set her and her show apart from the crowd?

  • What is the goal of a talk show? Do you think talk shows should be a forum for providing spiritual guidance and/or self-improvement advice? Why or why not?


This review was written by Melissa Camacho
Adult
March 10, 2011
 
Um dos melhores talk-show da atualidade
Um dos melhores talk-show da atualidade sem dúvida alguma, eu adoro a Oprah!

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Teen, 16 years old
May 19, 2012
 
OK for Pre-Teens,Teens,and Adults
For Pre-Teens and older.

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Kid, 13 years old
January 5, 2012
 
cool
it not bad you get good advice and all that

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This review was written by Melissa Camacho
TV rating:TV-PG
Network:Syndicated
Cast:Oprah Winfrey
Genre:Variety Show

This review was written by Melissa Camacho
 

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About our rating system
ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids.
OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age.
Learning ratings
BEST: Really engaging, great learning approach.
GOOD: Pretty engaging, good learning approach.
FAIR: Somewhat engaging, OK learning approach.
NOT FOR LEARNING: Not recommended for learning.

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