Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Cheery classic has positive, kid-friendly lessons.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The Andy Griffith Show
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 10 parent reviews
Based on 39 kid reviews
Kids say that this classic TV show remains a beloved family favorite, praised for its wholesome values, humor, and relatable characters. While some viewers mentioned issues with the portrayal of gender roles and minor suggestive content, overall, it is recommended for audiences of all ages for its positive messages and enjoyable entertainment.
- wholesome values
- family-friendly humor
- minor suggestive content
- relatable characters
- great for all ages
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
One of television's most iconic -- and cheerful -- comedy series, THE ANDY GRIFFITH SHOW revolves around Andy Taylor (Andy Griffith), the easygoing sheriff of the fictitious town of Mayberry, North Carolina. Mayberry may be small, but with eccentric residents like goofy auto mechanic Gomer Pyle (Jim Nabors) and easily distracted barber Floyd Lawson (Howard McNear), it's certainly not boring. Thanks to Taylor and his cousin -- rather overzealous "by-the-book" Deputy Barney Fife (Don Knotts) -- the tight-knit but rather innocent community is protected from anything and anyone that threatens their simple, happy way of life. Taylor is also raising his son, Opie (Ron Howard), with the help of their Aunt Bee (Frances Bavier), who moved in to help run the household. The strong relationship between father and son provides the basis for many of the show's discussions about "doing the right thing" and accepting the consequences of your actions.
Is It Any Good?
This series was part of a TV trend that (somewhat ironically) epitomized traditional family values by featuring a family headed by a widowed parent. The Andy Griffith Show, which aired from 1960-1968, also provided a welcome, albeit idealized, version of simple, quiet American life during a time when the country was experiencing major civil unrest and was in the midst of the Vietnam War. Granted, the show's humor is dated, the cast is hardly diverse, and the storylines are simplistic (especially when you compare them to today's typical family sitcom). But what makes Andy Griffith stand the test of time is its focus on kindness and the importance of community.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how families have been presented on television over the years since The Andy Griffith Show was on the air. How has TV family life changed over the past 40+ years? What's the definition of family today? Do you think a single dad was a typical TV character during the '60s?
Parents and kids can also talk about what it's like to live in a small town. What are the advantages of living in a tight-knit community? Disadvantages? What do small towns offer that cities don't, and vice versa?
How do the characters in The Andy Griffith Show demonstrate communication and compassion? Why are these important character strengths?
TV Details
- Premiere date : October 3, 1960
- Cast : Andy Griffith , Don Knotts , Ron Howard
- Network : TV Land
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Adventures
- Character Strengths : Communication , Compassion
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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
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