Parents' Guide to

The First Family

By Emily Ashby, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 12+

Mediocre sitcom with strong family at its center.

TV BET , CW Comedy 2012
The First Family Poster Image

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Despite creator Byron Allen's assurance that the characters are entirely fictionalized, it's tough not to view The First Family as a comical commentary on the country's real-life first African-American president, especially given that some of Duncan's mannerisms bear a pretty strong resemblance to President Obama's. Perhaps adults can separate the fact from the fiction here, but that won't be the case for kids, who would leave the show with some pretty firm misconceptions about the inner workings of the upper levels of government thanks to what amounts to parodied characterizations of officials and staff members.

What this show does have going for it is a talented veteran cast that counts scene-stealers like Gladys Knight, Jackee Harry, John Witherspoon, and Marla Gibbs among its supporting members. Sadly, though, the lethargic writing and corny plots don't capitalize on the abilities of this stellar crew, leaving the audience expecting a lot more than it offers.

TV Details

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