Parents' Guide to

MADtv (2016)

By Melissa Camacho, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 14+

Comedy sketch reboot as irreverent as the original.

TV CW Comedy 2016
MADtv (2016) Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

  • Donald Trump sketch
  • Elizabeth Warren
  • Olympic Sketch

Community Reviews

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age 15+

Based on 1 parent review

Joanne D.
Joanne D. Adult
October 20, 2017
age 15+

um...

We all know and love the old MadTv. The seasons were great and packed with comedy, as well as NOT FOR CHILDREN!!!! This show wasn't meant to be a "positive" view for children. Even then there was some adult humor and curse words. Yes there is violence, sex, swearing.....etc.... thats why there are ratings for certain ages. If you let your child watch the show, don't complain about what the content was about blah blah. If you grew up watching the show then you should know what the show will be about.
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

The sketch comedy series MADTV, a reboot of the original MADtv series that aired from 1995–2009, features an ensemble cast performing in a range of skits that poke fun at pretty much everything. The series stars comedians Carlie Craig, Michelle Ortiz, Adam Ray, Chelsea Davison, Jeremy D. Howard, Piotr Michael, LynNita Ellis, and Amir K. Also joining the gang are former MADtv stars Ike Barinhotz and Bobby Lee. From parodies of popular films and TV shows to sketches featuring musical performances, the series follows the tradition of creating irreverent humor.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (1 ):
Kids say (1 ):

The funny MADtv reboot continues the tradition of sketch comedy that pokes fun, offers some limited social commentary, and is just plain silly. Like its predecessor, it also contains a fair share of stereotypes, ranging from over-the-top caricatures to comments about different races and ethnicities intended to be funny.

While the new cast adds some freshness to the series, appearances by the original show's alumni anchor many of their performances. Their presence also adds some nostalgia to the show. Fans of the original show will find it funny, but its irreverent humor isn't for everyone.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about reviving past films and TV shows. Why are they rebooted? Is it because of their former popularity? A lack of new material? What kinds of changes do reboots include to make them entertaining for a new generation of viewers?

  • Why are stereotypes often used in comedies? Is it possible to be funny without relying on them for laughs?

TV Details

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