Common Sense Media Review
Wacky, sometimes edgy sitcom best for older kids.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
What's the Story?
ABC's HOPE AND FAITH revolves around the lives of two sisters: Hope (Faith Ford), a married mother of three living in the Ohio suburbs, and Faith (Kelly Ripa), a narcissistic former soap opera actor. After her character is killed off on "The Sacred and the Sinful," Faith moves in with Hope, much to the consternation of Hope's husband, Charley (Ted McGinley). What follows each week is a series of madcap situations in which Faith gets into mischief, and Hope tries to rein her in and make her grow up. Meanwhile, Faith often tries to enlist the help of Hope's three kids, especially boy-crazy Sydney, in her schemes, while Charley hatches plans to get rid of Faith and have his normal life back.
Is It Any Good?
Full of wacky situations and goofball comedy, Hope and Faith is likely to be enjoyed by parents and older kids alike, the sitcom falls in the same vein as other shows featuring twosomes, like Laverne and Shirley and Perfect Strangers.
While Hope and Faithisn't particularly poignant or thought-provoking television, it's a light comedy that is likely to appeal to many age ranges. Featuring the underlying current of sisterly love and the dynamic of Hope as the straight man to Faith's over-the-top antics, the show is pleasant viewing. By and large, the show is a standard family sitcom, but there is some sexual humor that would make it inappropriate for younger viewers.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how the show features both positive and negative role models. Would Faith's conduct be tolerated in the real world? How would the consequences of her actions be different? Hope's older daughter Sydney is portrayed as boy-crazy and ditzy. How do you think her aunt influences her as a role model? Parents might want to call more attention to socially aware Hayley and her mom Hope, especially since it's likely that Faith and Sydney, the more exciting and glamorous characters, might overshadow them.
TV Details
- Premiere date : September 26, 2003
- Cast : Faith Ford , Kelly Ripa , Ted McGinley
- Networks : ABC , Syndicated
- Genre : Comedy
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 19, 2019
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