Parents' Guide to After Lately

TV E! Comedy 2011
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Common Sense Media Review

Melissa Camacho By Melissa Camacho , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 17+

Chelsea Handler's office mockumentary is funny but crass.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 17+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

age 15+

Based on 2 parent reviews

What's the Story?

AFTER LATELY is a comedy series based on the supposed crazy behind-the-scenes antics of the Chelsea Lately staff. The scripted series stars Chelsea Handler and her staffers, including comedy writers Brad Wollack, Chris Franjola, Heather McDonalds, and Sarah Colonna. Art director Jeff Wild and producers Steve Marmalstein and Johnny Milord add to the fray. Colorful assistant Chuy Bravo also pops in and out, creating some interesting moments, too. From competing for the chance to go on vacation with Handler to deciding what staff person will replace her if she happens to die, the gang works on making the show happen while somehow coping with each other.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say ( 2 ):
Kids say : Not yet rated

The show, which follows the comedic mockumentary style of the classic series, The Larry Sanders Show, highlights the performance talent of some of the seasoned comedians and comedy writers who contribute to the success of Chelsea Lately. Not surprisingly, the show features much of the deadpan humor, strong language, and references to iffy behavior that the late night talk show is known for.

The overall series is both well written and well performed, and teens will most likely be drawn to it as much as they are its parent show. But if you are not a Chelsea Handler fan, chances are that you won't find much here.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about comedy. Why do some comedy shows rely on profanity, sex, and other boundary-pushing behaviors to be funny?

  • What is the difference between a scripted and non-scripted series? What do you think the real behind-the-scenes action on Handler's show is like?

TV Details

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