Common Sense Media Review
By Diondra K. Brown
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Mature drama series showcases three historical women.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The First Lady
What's the Story?
THE FIRST LADY centers around three dynamic, complex, and loyal women who have served in the position of first lady of the United States. Michelle Obama (Viola Davis), Betty Ford (Michelle Pfeiffer), and Eleanor Roosevelt (Gillian Anderson) all exhibit how essential it is to support the president while also striving for individuality. Each woman faces her own set of complicated issues, largely fueled by sexism and racism, during her husband's campaign for presidency and after entering the East Wing of the White House. Based on each women's real life, the series showcases the competing demands of the multiple roles each woman has -- first lady, wife, mother, daughter, friend, career professional -- and how sacrifice and service often come first.
Is It Any Good?
A compelling series that grounds prominent historical figures using raw emotions and struggles, The First Lady tackles important thematic issues and shares more about life before the presidency for Michelle Obama, Betty Ford, and Eleanor Roosevelt. The cast does an amazing job of bringing iconic people and stories to life in a new way. Viewers will be left wanting to know even more about U.S. history and life inside the White House.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how The First Lady follows the stories of Michelle Obama, Betty Ford, and Eleanor Roosevelt. Which first lady did you know the most about before watching the show? Who did you know the least about? What is something new you learned about each woman?
Who do you think had the most difficult job as first lady? Why? Do you think the creators of the show should have selected different first ladies to feature? Why, or why not?
How do you think the role of first lady has changed throughout history? Do you think each president supports this evolution?
If you could have a conversation with one character from the show, who would you choose? Why? What would you ask them?
TV Details
- Premiere date : April 17, 2022
- Cast : Viola Davis , Michelle Pfeiffer , Gillian Anderson
- Network : Showtime
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Activism , History
- TV rating :
- Award : NAACP Image Award - NAACP Image Award Nominee
- Last updated : September 29, 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
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate