Parents' Guide to Deon Cole's Black Box

TV TBS Comedy 2013
Deon Cole's Black Box Poster Image

Common Sense Media Review

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

age 15+

Comedy/clip show has cursing and race-related humor.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 15+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

What's the Story?

DEON COLE'S BLACK BOX is an unscripted comedy featuring comedian Deon Cole talking about whatever is on his mind. The series, which is executive produced by Conan O'Brien, features Cole putting his own unique spin on today's popular culture issues, ranging from controversial issues like race to strange, random events. He also offers his opinion about interesting celebrity moments. Adding to the fray are specially-produced music videos and comedy skits, which generate some additional laughs.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say : Not yet rated
Kids say : Not yet rated

From current events to tabloid stories, Deon Cole uses what's happening in the world to underscore the humor and/or irony behind them using his unique comedy style. Much of his commentary also targets the cultural understanding of race and race relations, regardless of whether the stories he discusses are focused on these themes.

Deon Cole's Black Box isn't the most sophisticated of shows, and some of the jokes come across as more silly and stereotypical than as a way of offering any sort of thoughtful social commentary. But there are also moments where you just can't help but chuckle. Chances are that folks looking for some lighthearted humor won't be disappointed if they tune in.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about comedy. What makes a joke funny? When does a joke go from being humorous to being offensive? Why do comedians often use swear words as part of their comedy style? Is using stereotypes and/or racial slurs to generate laughs appropriate, even if some folks think it's funny?

TV Details

  • Premiere date : June 10, 2013
  • Cast : Deon Cole
  • Network : TBS
  • Genre : Comedy
  • TV rating : TV-14
  • Last updated : September 30, 2022

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

Deon Cole's Black Box Poster Image

What to Watch Next

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