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Parents' Guide to

Moesha

By Lucy Maher, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 13+

Brandy strikes a chord as a typical teen.

TV TeenNick Comedy 1996
Moesha Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

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

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age 13+

Based on 1 parent review

PaulaJai
PaulaJai Adult
August 19, 2020
age 13+

Good but edgy

I watched Moesha as a kid and I loved it. It displays what teens go through in any generation. Child must be able to handle the messages presented though. Has some sexual references and innuendos.
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

In MOESHA, pop star Brandy Norwood plays Moesha, a teenage girl navigating her evolving relationships with family and friends. Set in Los Angeles, the program tells the story of a tight-knit family through the eyes of Moesha, or "Mo." Her world is turned upside-down when her widower father, Frank (William Allen Young), marries Dee (Sheryl Lee Ralph). Moesha's memories of her mother at first inhibit her ability to bond with Dee, so she relies on her group of friends -- irascible best friend Kim (Countess Vaughn), childhood friend and neighbor Hakeem (Lamont Bentley), and buddy Andell (Yvette Wilson) -- for companionship as she deals with her teenage years.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (1 ):
Kids say (8 ):

Since Moesha explores a wide range of topics teens typically encounter in high school, older viewers will find much to like and relate to. The themes -- from experimenting with alcohol to infidelity and pre-marital sex -- are topical, and families could benefit from watching the show together and discussing what happens in each episode.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how friendships evolve as teenagers grow up. Have you ever felt like you have to stay friends with someone because you've known each other forever? What's it like to experience peer pressure? How can you stick up for yourself without alienating your friends? When you have a problem with a friend or family member, what's the best way to handle it?

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 suggesting a diversity update.

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