Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Popular British comedy has gags, pratfalls, sexual moments.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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Mr. Bean
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 7 parent reviews
Based on 29 kid reviews
Kids say the show is consistently funny and offers great comedy, appealing to a broad audience. While some viewers noted instances of mild nudity and crude jokes, they generally agree that it remains appropriate and entertaining for families, with many praising its slapstick humor and memorable character antics.
- funny
- lighthearted humor
- mild inappropriate content
- suitable for families
- comedy classic
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
This British sketch comedy series stars Rowan Atkinson as MR. BEAN, a lovably mischievous adult who always finds interesting, child-like, and offbeat ways to deal with life's little problems. From getting his head stuck in a turkey while cooking Christmas dinner to accidentally returning a baby to its mother by tying balloons to its carriage and watching it fly away, Mr. Bean lives his life unaware of his ability to turn everyday trials into laughable moments, one disaster at a time.
Is It Any Good?
This popular British show, which is based on a quirky character that Atkinson developed while in graduate school, relies on running gags and slapstick humor for laughs. But what makes Mr. Bean noteworthy is that aside from rare repeat appearances of secondary characters, like girlfriend Irma Gobb (Matilda Ziegler), Atkinson successfully carries the show himself, with little use of the spoken word.
The series serves as a study for those interested in physical comedy. In fact, U.S. TV sitcoms like Friends have borrowed a gag or two from Mr. Bean to score laughs. But some folks may find a few of the sketches a little too risqué for younger viewers. Outside of these occasional moments, the show offers lots of memorable entertainment for older kids and adults.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what kind of comedy is used in Mr. Bean. What's the difference between stand-up and slapstick? What's a running gag? Which moments did you find particularly funny, and why? How does Mr. Bean compare to other TV comedies you've seen?
When does comedy go from being funny to being stereotypical and/or offensive? Why are some TV shows and films considered funny in certain countries but not others? Can you think of moments in film or television where stereotypes are used in a clever way, rather than relied upon for lazy laughs?
Mr. Bean is portrayed as a bumbling character, and most of his behavior is played for laughs. But there are some poignant moments, too. What do you think he's feeling in some of the scenes? Do you get any idea of his hopes and dreams or how he feels when things don't go well? Why is empathy important when watching characters on television?
TV Details
- Premiere date : January 1, 1990
- Cast : Matilda Ziegler , Rowan Atkinson
- Network : Syndicated
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Adventures , Transportation ( Cars & Trucks )
- TV rating :
- Award : BAFTA - BAFTA Nominee
- Last updated : November 26, 2025
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