Star Stories (BBC America)

common sense media says

British comics offer funny, edgy Hollywood satire.


parents & educators say

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this British comedy series -- which features satirical reenactments of stories about the lives of well-known celebrities -- is funny but edgy. Many of the sketches contain strong language (including unbleeped words like "bitch" and "s--t"), as well as drinking, smoking, and some fantasy violence. You can also expect some strong sexual innuendo, including references to affairs, homosexuality, and pornography.

Positive messages: Satires are a bit biting, but not malicious. All sorts of celebrity foibles are mocked.
Violence: Some scenes feature mock fights and other rough incidents. Fake guns and other weapons are sometimes visible. Fake blood is seen dripping from tattoos.
Sex: Lots of sexual innuendo, including discussions of affairs. References to pornography and homosexuality. Some skimpy outfits.
Language: Some strong language, including words like "dicks," "bitch," and "s--t" (unbleeped). Obscene gestures are blurred out.
Consumerism: Lots of references to celebrities,TV shows, and other entertainment-related subject matter.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Visible alcohol consumption (beer, wine, whiskey) and cigar smoking.

More on Star Stories

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about the role of satire in the media. What's the difference between satirizing something and simply making fun of it? What makes satire funny? How do you feel when someone you admire -- like a politician or celebrity -- is the target of jokes? Do you think that the people being satirized can appreciate the jokes? What would life be like if we didn't have the freedom to poke fun at people or situations?

What's the story?

What's the story?
STAR STORIES is an award-winning British sketch comedy series that puts an original spin on Hollywood stories. Along with fellow comedians like Matt King, Rhys Thomas, and Daisy Beaumont, star Kevin Bishop plays celebrities, reenacting of some of Tinseltown's biggest tabloid stories; anyone from Jennifer Aniston to Britney Spears to Simon Cowell could pop up. The result? Funny, unique behind-the-scenes insight on the latest and greatest Hollywood scandals.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
The series combines tongue-in-cheek sketch comedy with TV tabloid-style storytelling as it tells these alleged life histories. Granted, the show's amusing skits don't really offer deep social critiques, but they do poke fun at media-obsessed culture and its drive to find the most remarkable -- and sometimes ridiculous -- rumors circulating about the private lives of the entertainment industry's most notable figures.

The spoofs are definitely funny, but a lot of the humor is too edgy for young viewers. Many of the "reconstructed" events have to do with affairs, arguments, drinking, and other iffy behavior. But for teens and adults who like good satire, the series provides some satisfying laughs.

TV themes & details

TV Details
TV Rating: TV-14
Network: BBC America
Cast: Daisy Beaumont, Kevin Bishop, Rhys Thomas
Genre: Comedy
Where to watch: BBC America

This review was written by Melissa Camacho
 
 

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About our rating system
ON: Content is 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