Common Sense Media Review
By Emily Ashby
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Popular app stars' Web show deals laughs, little substance.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Talking Tom and Friends
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 21 parent reviews
Parents say the show is often criticized for its bratty characters, inappropriate themes, and lack of positive role models. While it may contain some humor and lessons about relationships, many reviews suggest that it is unsuitable for younger viewers due to instances of bullying, superficial behavior, and problematic dialogue that could negatively influence children.
- bratty characters
- inappropriate themes
- unsuitable for young kids
- lack of positive role models
- mixed humor quality
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 33 kid reviews
Kids say that while the show is humorous and entertaining, particularly for young audiences, it has its share of inappropriate content, including mild language and complex themes like romance that may not be suitable for children under ten. Many reviewers appreciate its funny moments and positive messages, but caution parents about certain rude humor and violence present in some episodes.
- humor and entertainment
- inappropriate content
- recommendations vary
- positive messages
- mild language
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
TALKING TOM AND FRIENDS is a Web series based on the characters from the popular companion apps. It follows the hijinks of an adventurous and inventive cat named Tom (voiced by Colin Hanks) as he launches a reality series filmed in his garage, where he also works with his friend Ben (James Adomian) to develop new apps. They're joined by his pop-star girlfriend, Angela (Lisa Schwartz); his nephew, Ginger (Maria Bamford); and his roommate, Hank (Tom Kenny). Cameras capture the curious, comical, and even mundane events of their days as these pals go about work and play and spill secrets in bathroom confessionals.
Is It Any Good?
Talking Tom and his cohorts have entertained many a kid by way of interactive apps in which the characters repeat a modification of what users say into their devices. Just as there's little depth to the virtual activity, there's not much below the surface of this series, but that certainly won't be a deterrent for kids who want to watch. Those who do will enjoy seeing Tom and his friends interact, and, with so many personalities, there are plenty of moments that will get them laughing. Also, if your kids haven't used the characters' apps yet, don't be surprised if this encourages them to seek them out.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how the characters in the show compare to those in the apps. Does different animation make them more engaging or less so? Do you like their new voices? Are their personalities what you expected?
Kids: How real is reality TV? How might your life look if it was made into a TV show? Do these characters have any bad habits that are brought to light in this show?
What rules does your family have about screen time and device use? Are the rules different for kids and adults? How do cell phones and tablets make our lives easier? Is it fair to say that they have a negative impact on how people relate to each other?
TV Details
- Premiere date : December 23, 2014
- Cast : Colin Hanks , Tom Kenny , Maria Bamford
- Network : Online
- Genre : Kids' Animation
- Topics : Animals
- TV rating :
- Last updated : December 16, 2025
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