Parents' Guide to The Paper

TV Peacock Comedy 2025
The staff of The Paper gathers together for a photograph behind the title "The Paper."

Common Sense Media Review

Polly Conway By Polly Conway , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 12+

Some language in charming newspaper mockumentary.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 12+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

age 12+

Based on 1 parent review

age 13+

Based on 1 kid review

What's the Story?

The Toledo Truth Teller was once a thriving newspaper, employing over 900 people and always striving for journalistic integrity. Now, it's essentially a clickbait farm and repository for local ads that shares its single floor with another type of paper company: toilet. Its meager staff is disinterested and lacks experience. But eager new editor-in-chief Ned Sampson wants to change all that. Along with the help of snarky compositor Mare and a ragtag crew of staffers, Sampson just might bring THE PAPER back to life.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say ( 1 ):
Kids say ( 1 ):

This gentle, likable series has some big shoes to fill. The Paper isn't The Office; it has its own tone: less cringe, more cute. Gleeson as the stalwart Ned is a charming blend of Parks and Recreation's Leslie Knope's optimism, Jim Halpert's everyman vibes, and Michael Scott's dorkiness. The show's take on a dying livelihood is overall hopeful and sweet, with some bursts of hilarious sour, especially in the form of returning Office character Oscar Nunez, who is utterly infuriated to be taking part in yet another documentary.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about journalism. Why do you think the newspaper industry has changed so much over the years? Do you think it'll find success again?

  • Main character Ned Sampson is optimistic and perseveres against all odds. Why do you think perseverance is an important character strength?

TV Details

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The staff of The Paper gathers together for a photograph behind the title "The Paper."

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