Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Divorced dad rebuilds life in not-quite-funny-enough show.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 12+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Rel
What's the Story?
REL is a comedy series about a West Chicago nurse who finds himself trying to pick up the pieces after his wife leaves him. Rel (Lil Rel Howery) was surprised to find out that his wife was having an affair with his barber, and was more surprised that everybody knows it. Now that his wife is gone with the children and he's the butt of jokes around town, he has to find a way to rebuild his life. Rel's best friend, Brittany (Jessica "Jess Hilarious" Moore), tries to give him sound advice, while his former drug-dealing brother, Nat (played by Jordan L. Jones), and his judgmental father (Sinbad) support him as best they know how. It isn't easy, but from talking to his kids through phone chats to going out on dates, he's doing his best to keep going.
Is It Any Good?
This lighthearted show highlights the difficult process of coming to terms with a divorce and trying to restart a new life after. The story centers around Rel's efforts to cope, but a big part of the story is the important role his extended family plays in this process. Lil Rel Howery fans will enjoy his signature brand of comedy, which occasionally includes playing multiple characters in a single show. But despite the cast of comedians that joins him, the punchlines lack sufficient energy to be very funny. Nonetheless, Rel has some positive messages that viewers might appreciate.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about comedy. What makes something funny? Who gets to decide?
What messages does Rel send about divorce? Is poking fun at a failed marriage appropriate? Or is it helpful to talk about complicated family issues?
TV Details
- Premiere date : September 9, 2018
- Cast : LilRel Howery , Sinbad , Jessica Moore
- Network : Fox
- Genre : Comedy
- TV rating :
- Last updated : March 13, 2020
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