9-1-1
Parents say
Based on 8 reviews
Kids say
Based on 26 reviews
Common Sense is a nonprofit organization. Your purchase helps us remain independent and ad-free.
9-1-1
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
Suggest an Update
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 9-1-1 is a dramatic series about a crew of first responders. It has scenes of people having serious (or fatal) accidents, sustaining horrific injuries, and other disturbing moments. It also contains mature themes like suicide and infidelity, and sexual content (including simulated sex). There's some strong language ("ass," "crap," "damn," etc.), and drugs and alcohol sometimes lead to devastating consequences. It's a solid series but not for the faint of heart, and not intended for young or sensitive viewers.
Community Reviews
911 is awful
Report this review
Age 11 with parents, 14 alone
Report this review
What's the Story?
Co-executive-produced by Angela Bassett, 9-1-1 is a procedural drama that follows the professional and personal lives of a team of Los Angeles first responders. Bassett plays LAPD patrol sergeant Athena Grant, who is juggling her hectic professional life while trying to come to terms with her dysfunctional marriage to husband Michael Grant (Rockmond Dunbar). Meanwhile, Los Angeles Fire Department Captain Bobby Nash (Peter Krause) must handle the pressures of the job with paramedics Howie "Chimney" Han (Kenneth Choi) and Henrietta "Hen" Wilson (Aisha Hinds), while mentoring rookie firefighter Evan "Buck" Buckley (Oliver Stark). Taking the emergency calls is 911 operator Abby Clark (Connie Britton), who, when not on the job, is taking care of her mother (Mariette Hartley), who is slowly succumbing to Alzheimer's. Their lives aren't simple or easy, but they work together to help those they can, and support each other when they need it most.
Is It Any Good?
This dramatic (and often traumatic) series, based on real-life emergency responder stories, takes viewers through harrowing crises and climactic rescues. It turns up the tension a few notches by often showing brutal injuries and people meeting their demise. Some of the characters' personal conflicts are equally intense.
Thanks to the sensational way accidents, attempted suicides, and other distressing events are presented, the show isn't always easy to watch. But 9-1-1 also features some solid, well-developed narratives, making it worth tuning in if you can handle it.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the role of first responders such as those depicted in 9-1-1. What makes their jobs so challenging? How do they manage the pressure that comes with their work?
9-1-1 is based on real-life experiences of emergency response teams. Is the way these stories are being told more dramatic than the experiences really were?
TV Details
- Premiere date: January 2, 2018
- Cast: Angela Bassett, Peter Krause, Connie Britton
- Network: Fox
- Genre: Drama
- Character Strengths: Teamwork
- TV rating: TV-14
- Last updated: April 1, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
-
Chicago Fire
Fire drama's blazes mix with solid story, mature content.
-
Chicago P.D.
Police procedural has blood, gore, and tense situations.
-
Air Emergency
Graphic docuseries is too intense for kids.
-
Reno 911!
Whip-smart cop comedy is too hot for kids.
For kids who love drama
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate