Common Sense Media Review
By Joly Herman
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Contrary to its title, this isn't a family show.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Family Guy
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 276 parent reviews
Parents say that while some appreciate the humor and clever writing of the show, many highlight its inappropriate content that is not suitable for children, citing excessive violence, sexual themes, and strong language. Overall, there's a consensus that the show is entertaining for adults but should be kept away from younger audiences, with recommendations for viewing from age 12 or 13 and up, depending on the maturity of the viewers.
- inappropriate content
- not for kids
- adult humor
- suggested age 12+
- mixed reviews
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 918 kid reviews
Kids say this show is hilarious but definitely not suitable for younger audiences due to its heavy reliance on crude humor, sexual innuendos, profanity, and violence. While fans appreciate its absurd and boundary-pushing comedy, many warn that the content is more appropriate for teenagers and adults, especially in the later seasons.
- adult humor
- not for kids
- crude content
- season differences
- older teen suitability
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
A witty blend of slapstick and fantasy, Seth MacFarlane's FAMILY GUY has over 20 seasons to its name and is a TV show within a TV show. Characters include patriarch Peter Griffin (voiced by MacFarlane), who has visions that look like animated channel surfing; his supportive wife Lois (Alex Borstein), and their children -- angsty teenagers Chris (Seth Green) and Meg (Mila Kunis), and baby Stewie (MacFarlane again), who spews vitriolic one-liners as he throws his bottle across the room. Rounding out the Griffins is their dog, Brian (yup, MacFarlane does his voice too), a sensitive, well-read fellow who enjoys his wine and often serves as the family's conscience.
Is It Any Good?
This show's wacky brand of fast-paced humor isn't for everyone. But those willing to laugh along with its zany jokes, will find Family Guy hilarious. As a plot device, Peter's visions can serve as a distraction, ultimately disrupting what might be a storyline. On the other hand, the constant references to musicals, literature, plays, video games, and other TV shows might amuse some viewers.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the humor in Family Guy. Do you find it funny, or offensive? Why might different people have different reactions?
What do you make of Peter's excessive love of television? Can you think of other characters who do the same?
Stewie is obsessed with creating chaos and doing things usually reserved for the villains in action/sci-fi films. How does the situation change when it's a baby acting this way? Is it funnier, or does it make no difference?
TV Details
- Premiere date : January 31, 1999
- Cast : Alex Borstein , Seth Green , Seth MacFarlane
- Networks : Fox , Syndicated
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Family Stories ( Siblings )
- TV rating :
- Last updated : December 11, 2025
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
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