Common Sense Media Review
By Stephanie Morgan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Tribute leaves out animation that made original sing.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 5+?
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Where to Watch
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Schoolhouse Rock! 50th Anniversary Singalong
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK! 50TH ANNIVERSARY SINGALONG honors the original groundbreaking series of the same name. Current performers (Julianna Hough, Raven-Symone, and more) sing some of the series' most beloved songs and host Ryan Seacrest shares some of the history of the beloved show. Donors Choose, a nonprofit dedicated to helping teachers, is also spotlighted.
Is It Any Good?
The decision to focus on performances from B- and C-list actors over the beloved animations of the original series makes this special somehow feel over-produced and lackluster at the same time. Schoolhouse Rock! 50th Anniversary Singalong attempts to celebrate the classic animated series by spotlighting current performers singing and dancing to the original songs. Unfortunately, the big anniversary show fails to bring much of a party. Kids may be confused by the contextless songs and the hodgepodge of celebrities they probably won't recognize. Host Ryan Seacrest's disingenuous delivery also takes away from the overall experience. Performances from Ne-Yo and The Muppets manage to stand out, but the whole thing ultimately comes across as uninspired -- something the original show definitely was not.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the different songs and segments in the special. Which did you find the most interesting? Why?
How can music be used to help understand different subjects in school? Can you think of any other creative methods that could be used to learn while studying school subjects?
The special features a diverse range of performers. How do you think this diversity contributes to the overall message of the show? How does it affect who might want to watch the special?
TV Details
- Premiere date : January 27, 2023
- Cast : Ryan Seacrest , Kal Penn , Retta
- Network : Disney+
- Genre : Variety Show
- Topics : History , Arts ( Music and Sing-Along )
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
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