Common Sense Media Review
By Kari Croop
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Quirky '90s comedy captures diversity of small-town life.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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Northern Exposure
What's the Story?
It's a case of NORTHERN EXPOSURE for young New York City doctor Joel Fleischman (Rob Morrow) when he learns he's been assigned to the small town of Cicely, Alaska -- and that he's contracted to stay there for at least four years. Now, he must live and work among the locals, who include gutsy pilot Maggie (Janine Turner), widowed store owner Ruth-Anne (Peg Phillips), philosophizing disc jockey Chris (John Corbett), and aspiring filmmaker Ed (Darren E. Burrows).
Is It Any Good?
This Emmy-nominated series picked up a pair of Peabody Awards for television excellence in its portrayal of small-town diversity. Airing for six seasons on CBS from 1990-1995, it did so in such a way that its quietly quirky tone remains unique to this day. As the town's resident radio philosopher, Corbett's character in particular provides a calming and poetic narrative that ties all the elements together and usually gives the viewer something to think about.
Although much of Northern Exposure's appeal lies in its varied cast of supporting characters, Morrow and Turner have a magic of their own, putting a fresh twist on the classic Sam-and-Diane tension that worked so well on Cheers. Turner also offers a refreshing take on the concept of a female protagonist, redefining in her own way what it means to be a woman on TV.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the diversity of characters seen on Northern Exposure and compare it to other series currently on television. How common is it to see Native American characters on TV, for example, and how are they usually portrayed? Does this series reinforce or refute negative stereotypes?
How can you tell this series is supposed to be a comedy? In terms of style and tone, how does it differ from other TV comedies on the air?
What are the benefits of small-town life? Are there any drawbacks? What size town would you rather live in?
How do the characters in Northern Exposure demonstrate gratitude and humility? Why are these important character strengths?
TV Details
- Premiere date : July 12, 1990
- Cast : Janine Turner , John Corbett , Rob Morrow
- Network : CBS
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : STEM
- Character Strengths : Gratitude , Humility
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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