Common Sense Media Review
By Matt Springer
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Comedian's edgy, raunchy commentary on sports.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
What's the Story?
Former Saturday Night Live Weekend Update host and stand-up comic Norm MacDonald anchors SPORTS SHOW WITH NORM MACDONALD, a skewed take on the latest sports news. The opening segment -- in which MacDonald mocks news stories with his dark comedic spin -- will be familiar to SNL fans, while the rest of the show features pre-taped comedy sketches and stand-up monologues.
Is It Any Good?
MacDonald is perhaps best known as the only Weekend Update host on SNL to (allegedly) be fired by the network for the content of his jokes. That incident provides a good barometer as to whether or not his comedy philosophy is to the taste of the average TV viewer and sports fan. MacDonald specializes in a style of comedy that takes no prisoners and pushes the boundaries of good taste. His ideal reaction seems to be a shocked gasp, followed by gales of laughter. He achieves that reaction frequently during Sports Show; his edge hasn't dulled, and his comedic mind is as sharp as ever.
In terms of format, it's hard not to view Sports Show as a spin-off of the similarly structured Daily Show, although Sports Show is more personality-based. Those easily offended may want to flip the channel, and parents will want to use their own judgment on whether the show's content and tone are appropriate for teens.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how the show treats superstar athletes who have made major mistakes. Are the jokes fair to the athletes? Why or why not?
Does this comedy series make it seem attractive to become a professional athlete? Why or why not?
What's the purpose of fake news shows like this? Do you find the humor funny? If so, why?
TV Details
- Premiere date : April 12, 2011
- Cast : Norm MacDonald
- Network : Comedy Central
- Genre : Comedy
- TV rating :
- Last updated : December 12, 2022
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
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate