Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
TV prequel has swearing, drinking, innuendo, and family.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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Ted
What's the Story?
The prequel to the 2012 movie of the same name, TED features an awkward teen and his sentient teddy bear with a rude personality. It's 1993, and Ted (voiced by Seth McFarlane) is a walking and (crude) talking toy bear who no longer enjoys the attention he once received for being alive. He lives with the Bennetts, including dad Matty (Scott Grimes), mom Susan (Alanna Ubach), and their awkward 16-year-old son, John (Max Burkholder), with whom he's the best of pals. John's cousin Blaire (Giorgia Whigham) is also living with them while she goes to college. They're a tight-knit, working-class Massachusetts clan, but like any family, they sometimes hit rough spots. Meanwhile, John and Ted manage to get into their share of trouble. But no matter what happens, the tough-talking Ted will always try to find a solution to their troubles, even if he's the one that inadvertently caused them.
Is It Any Good?
The irreverent comedy uses impressive digital production elements and lots of off-color humor to create a world in which a talking bear actively participating in society is the norm. Some of the humor focuses in on 1990s political (in)correctness, politics, and the unique cultural aspects the Boston area is known for. Sometimes it also pokes fun at some of what's happening in the 2020s. But Ted spends more time delivering sarcastic quips and nonstop insolent banter than it does presenting well-developed plotlines, which creates an uneven viewing experience. It isn't the best of TV situation comedies, but franchise fans will enjoy the connections being made to the "future" events featured in the films, and will be comfortable with the edgy content.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the use of swear words and other inappropriate references to make movies and TV shows funny. If it's not appropriate, should people laugh?
How does Ted the TV series compare to the movies in the franchise? Which is better? Why?
TV Details
- Premiere date : January 11, 2024
- Cast : Max Burkholder , Seth MacFarlane , Scott Grimes
- Network : Peacock
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Friendship , School ( High School )
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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