Common Sense Media Review
By Stephanie Morgan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Spicy women-led drama explores journalism and politics.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The Girls on the Bus
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
THE GIRLS ON THE BUS is an engaging adaptation of the 2018 memoir Chasing Hillary (by show co-creator Amy Chozick), which itself was an update of The Boys on the Bus, a nonfictional book centering on life on the road for journalists covering the 1972 American presidential race. This version focuses on four female reporters covering a fictional U.S. presidential election. The series begins dramatically with the main reporter being arrested, setting the stage for a story that intertwines journalism, politics, and women supporting women.
Is It Any Good?
With a dynamic soundtrack and compelling start, this series will capture viewers' attention from the get-go. The Girls on the Bus skillfully blends light-hearted and serious moments, making for an inviting watch that still delves into significant contemporary issues. Aimed at a younger adult audience, it's an accessible introduction to American politics, contrasting traditional journalism with modern social media influences. While the lead character's somewhat clichéd role could have been more innovatively cast, the show excels in presenting each woman's unique style and viewpoint, much like Sex and the City for the journalism world.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the U.S. election system, including primaries and the role of the media in elections. What did your family learn about the political process from the show? How does media coverage influence public perception of candidates and issues?
Explore the theme of women supporting women shown in the series. Why is mentorship important, and how can positive role models influence a person's career and personal growth? Share examples of mentorship in your own life.
Girls on the Bus features a diverse cast in terms of race, sexuality, and body size. How does seeing characters from various backgrounds and with different life experiences enrich the storytelling? How do you think it affects viewers from underrepresented communities?
What's the role of journalism in society and the importance of unbiased reporting? How do the characters in The Girls on the Bus navigate the challenges of reporting truthfully? What responsibilities do journalists have to the public, and how do they affect democracy?
TV Details
- Premiere date : March 14, 2024
- Cast : Rose Jackson Smith , Adam Kaplan
- Network : HBO
- Genre : Drama
- Character Strengths : Courage
- TV rating :
- Last updated : April 24, 2025
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