Star Stories
British comics offer funny, edgy Hollywood satire.
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this British comedy series -- which features satirical reenactments of stories about the lives of well-known celebrities -- is funny but edgy. Many of the sketches contain strong language (including unbleeped words like "bitch" and "s--t"), as well as drinking, smoking, and some fantasy violence. You can also expect some strong sexual innuendo, including references to affairs, homosexuality, and pornography.
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What's the Story?
STAR STORIES is an award-winning British sketch comedy series that puts an original spin on Hollywood stories. Along with fellow comedians like Matt King, Rhys Thomas, and Daisy Beaumont, star Kevin Bishop plays celebrities, reenacting of some of Tinseltown's biggest tabloid stories; anyone from Jennifer Aniston to Britney Spears to Simon Cowell could pop up. The result? Funny, unique behind-the-scenes insight on the latest and greatest Hollywood scandals.
Is It Any Good?
The series combines tongue-in-cheek sketch comedy with TV tabloid-style storytelling as it tells these alleged life histories. Granted, the show's amusing skits don't really offer deep social critiques, but they do poke fun at media-obsessed culture and its drive to find the most remarkable -- and sometimes ridiculous -- rumors circulating about the private lives of the entertainment industry's most notable figures.
The spoofs are definitely funny, but a lot of the humor is too edgy for young viewers. Many of the "reconstructed" events have to do with affairs, arguments, drinking, and other iffy behavior. But for teens and adults who like good satire, the series provides some satisfying laughs.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the role of satire in the media. What's the difference between satirizing something and simply making fun of it? What makes satire funny? How do you feel when someone you admire -- like a politician or celebrity -- is the target of jokes? Do you think that the people being satirized can appreciate the jokes? What would life be like if we didn't have the freedom to poke fun at people or situations?
TV Details
- Premiere date: August 15, 2008
- Cast: Daisy Beaumont, Kevin Bishop, Rhys Thomas
- Network: BBC America
- Genre: Comedy
- TV rating: TV-14
- Last updated: February 24, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
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Saturday Night Live
Legendary late-night show funny for teens and up.
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MADtv
Rude, crude SNL wannabe. Proceed with caution.
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The Showbiz Show with David Spade
Witty SNL wannabe for older teens.
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