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Samantha Who? (ABC)

common sense media says

So-so amnesia sitcom tackles grown-up issues.

parents & educators say
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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this sitcom about an amnesiac who wants to become a better person occasionally deals with serious issues, like alcoholism and sexual affairs, but tends to treat the topics lightly. Expect frequent discussion of sex, including occasional mild innuendo. Couples sometimes kiss or embrace, and characters drink and hang out in bars. One character drinks frequently, and others joke about her being an alcoholic. Rare use of swear words like "damn" and "bitch."

Positive messages: Sam used to be mean person, and she still occasionally acts mean unintentionally -- though she's trying to be better. She might yell or berate someone or just be rude. Peripheral characters are sometimes selfish and rude, too, but their behavior is meant to highlight Sam's attempts to better herself.
Violence: Not applicable.
Sex: Mild discussion of sex, including some innuendo. A character was cheating on her boyfriend. Some kissing and embracing.
Language: Occasional "damn," "bitch," and the like.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Some drinking. One character drinks a lot, and other characters comment on this. Sam is a recovering alcoholic.
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More on Samantha Who?

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about whether it's possible -- or desirable -- to completely reinvent yourself. What makes people want to change how they look, act, or think? What impact does the media have on how you perceive yourself? How about your peers? Teens: Is there something about yourself that you'd like to change? What, and why? Do you think anyone has opinions of you that aren't accurate? How can you change that? Should you?

What's the story?

What's the story?

Christina Applegate stars in SAMANTHA WHO?, a comedy about a young woman with amnesia who finds out she used to be a not-so-nice person. As a blank slate, Sam confronts her past and tries to become a better person, despite the glimmers of her past personality that continue to burst through. Along for the ride are Sam's henpecked boyfriend Todd (Barry Watson), her nutty parents Regina (Jean Smart) and Howard (Kevin Dunn), and her best friend, party animal Andrea (Jennifer Esposito). Looking at her friends and family from her new perspective, Sam quickly realizes that she doesn't actually like many of them. Her mother is self-centered and deceitful, and her friend plies her with drinks despite knowing that she's in recovery.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

The show's somewhat silly premise is bolstered by Applegate's knack for comedy, which she honed during her days on Married... With Children. And while Samantha Who? doesn't shake the tired sitcom format, it still provides plenty of lightweight laughs.

Grown-up issues like alcoholism and affairs, along with several instances in which Sam is downright mean to others, make the show best for older teens and adults. That said, even these serious topics are treated lightly and don't get too edgy.

TV themes & details

TV Details
TV Rating: TV-PG
Network: ABC
Cast: Christina Applegate, Jean Smart, Jennifer Esposito
Genre: Comedy
Where to watch: ABC
This review was written by Sierra Filucci
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

FosterFan
educator and parent
12
 
Great for all kids 12 and up.
Samantha Who? is a very funny show. Christina Applegate has a really great comic timing, delivers zingers with sass, and she seems to have fun. Maybe not great for kids under 12, but they're sure to have a good time.
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Calciano355
teen, 18 years old
8
 
I LOVE THIS SHOW!!!
This show is hysterical! The content is very mild and innuendos will go right of the head of anyone under 12.
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chibi
adult
 
Cute show - not appropriate for kids
I enjoy this show. I record it so I can watch it when my kids aren't around. It is well written, but too over the top to be in Prime Time. Christina Applegate does a fine job of playing the confused victim of amnesia. Good supporting cast, too. Kids over the age of 14 (depending on their maturity level) could get this, but I would not recommend anyone under 17 watch.
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