Action League Now!
Common Sense is a nonprofit organization. Your purchase helps us remain independent and ad-free.
Action League Now!
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 Action League Now! is a throwback Nickelodeon comedy that combines live action and stop motion visuals. It began as a short segment on Kablam! and All That before becoming its own half-hour show. Though the characters are a mix of action figures, dolls and other toys, and there is plenty of violence. For example, characters get smashed, electrocuted, run over by vehicles, and thrown from windows. One character -- an action figure named The Flesh -- is nearly always naked. There is no shortage of gross stuff like stinky jokes and characters getting thrown in the toilet…and flushed.
What's the Story?
In ACTION LEAGUE NOW! a group of misfit action figures including The Flesh, Meltman, Thunder Girl, Stinky Diver, and The Chief attempt to fight crime in the suburban home of their presumed owner, and the surrounding areas. With wacky adventures, gross antics, and funny teamwork, the Action League saves the day -- or at least saves its members -- from chaos that only a group of offbeat action figures can find themselves in.
Is It Any Good?
This unique show brings on the laughs across generations. Parents who grew up on Action League Now! will get a kick out of rewatching it with their kids. It's a simple concept that combines so much of what kids love -- action figures, super heroes, and gross stuff. It's surprising that the show hasn't been rebooted for today's youth but cool to see this Nickelodeon classic stand the test of time.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about teamwork in Action League Now! How do the members of the Action League work together? How does teamwork help them be successful?
How is Action League Now! different from most shows for kids? What makes it fun to watch?
Which member of the Action League is your favorite? Why?
TV Details
- Premiere date: October 7, 1996
- Cast: Jim Krenn, Cris Winter, Scott Paulsen, Colin M. McGee
- Networks: Nickelodeon, Paramount+
- Genre: Comedy
- Topics: Superheroes, Adventures, Friendship
- Character Strengths: Teamwork
- TV rating: TV-G
- Last updated: January 18, 2023
Our Editors Recommend
-
KaBlam!
'90s animated sketch show has quirky characters, cool style.
-
All That
Funny '90s sketch comedy can spark discussion with tweens.
-
The Powerpuff Girls
Sugar, spice, and mayhem add up to a frenetic and fun world.
For kids who love classic cartoons
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