Parents' Guide to I'm in the Band

TV Disney XD Comedy 2009
I'm in the Band Poster Image

Common Sense Media Review

Emily Ashby By Emily Ashby , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 8+

Plenty of tween laughs, but reality isn't a big concern.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 8+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

age 12+

Based on 6 parent reviews

age 9+

Based on 18 kid reviews

Kids say that this TV show, while entertaining and occasionally funny, often relies on immature humor and questionable role models, making it less suitable for younger viewers. The show has a unique concept that appeals to certain audiences, particularly those who enjoy absurdity, but it also faces criticism for poor messaging regarding rebellion and responsibility.

  • funny at times
  • immature humor
  • questionable role models
  • unique concept
  • not for young kids
Summarized with AI

What's the Story?

A radio contest turns into the chance of a lifetime when 15-year-old Tripp Campbell (Logan Miller) wins a dinner date with his favorite rock band, Iron Weasel. Hoping to persuade them to take him on as their new guitarist, Tripp offers the three band members the spare room in his mom's house, and the guys are quick to ditch the van they've been living in and make themselves at home. Soon Tripp's living under the same roof as his musical idols -- Derek Jupiter (Steve Valentine), Burger Pitt (Greg Baker), and Ash (Stephen Full) -- and jamming with them on a daily basis. But with this group of oddballs, mishaps and mayhem are never far away.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say ( 6 ):
Kids say ( 18 ):

True, there's no shortage of laughs in I'M IN THE BAND, but if you're looking for a show that at least attempts to blend reality and comedy, this one isn't for you -- or your tweens. From Tripp's mom's willingness to let three deadbeat rockers take over her house to their uncanny ability to weasel (pun intended) out of any jam they find themselves in, very little about the show's concept could be construed as realistic.

None of this is likely to be new to tweens familiar with the likes of The Suite Life of Zack & Cody, but be sure to offer a reality check when necessary anyway.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about whether this show offers a realistic view of what adult life is like. In what ways are the band members iffy role models for Tripp? Do they ever set a good example for him?

  • Kids: Who are some of your role models? What do you admire about these people? What attributes do you look for in someone you want to emulate? Have you ever been disappointed by a role model?

  • What famous people would you most like to meet? What would you ask them if you had the chance?

TV Details

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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