Parents' Guide to Garfield's Thanksgiving

TV Tubi Kids' Animation 1989
Garfield's Thanksgiving TV: Oddie and Garfield wear capotain hats while standing behind a plentiful Thanksgiving table with their mouths full.

Common Sense Media Review

Fernanda Camargo By Fernanda Camargo , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 9+

Classic cartoon has dated views on diet and romance.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 9+?

Any Positive Content?

  • Garfield's Thanksgiving TV: In the kitchen, Jon excitedly reads the from his recipe book while Garfield stares blankly at the Thanksgiving turkey.
  • Garfield's Thanksgiving TV: Dr. Liz examines Garfield at the vet while Jon looks over her shoulder, willingly.
  • Garfield's Thanksgiving TV: Garfield and Oddie sit at a purple couch, their bellies full after Thanksgiving meal.

Parent and Kid Reviews

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What's the Story?

In GARFIELD'S THANKSGIVING, it's the day before the holiday, and Garfield has a trip to the vet. While Jon thinks this is the perfect opportunity to ask Dr. Liz out on a date, Garfield is less enthusiastic because he's been put on a diet and isn't allowed to participate in the feast. But Jon struggles with cooking, and Dr. Liz starts reconsidering her orders… Can Grandma save the day, the date, and Garfield's appetite?

Is It Any Good?

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

For adults who grew up with the characters, it could be a nostalgic holiday treat. For teens and young viewers, however, Garfield's Thanksgiving is bound to seem outdated. From the classic cartoon style to its tropes and attitudes, some elements may feel out of touch with today's standards. It's the kind of special that's okay to remember but doesn't need to be revisited.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how Garfield's Thanksgiving explores diet and eating habits. Do you think it's funny? Is it respectful?

  • What do you think of Jon's method for convincing Dr. Liz to go out with him? What does this communicate to the audience?

  • If you had to make a reboot of this special, what would you change? And what would stay the same?

TV Details

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Garfield's Thanksgiving TV: Oddie and Garfield wear capotain hats while standing behind a plentiful Thanksgiving table with their mouths full.

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