Parents' Guide to

The Paynes

By Melissa Camacho, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 12+

Mild spin-off sitcom has race-related humor, life lessons.

TV OWN Comedy 2018
The Paynes Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

  • The Paynes Series: Curtis shows off the Florida house.
  • The Paynes Series: Cousin JoAnn.
  • The Paynes Series: Curtis lays down the law

Community Reviews

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age 12+

Based on 18 parent reviews

Maxigirl7
Maxigirl7 Adult
December 18, 2020
age 2+

I’m shocked at how horrible the show is now. Everyone extremely overacts, or ignorant and it’s not even realistic. The kids act “dumb” and it’s an embarrassment.

We need more positive role models that represent modern day black families not this ridiculous side show.
eww
eww Adult
August 4, 2020
age 12+

The boring

This is a very boring show. This may be one that just have to just say oh oh oh made a bad one .
See all 18 parent reviews

What's the Story?

THE PAYNES is a comedy series that follows the trials and tribulations of the Payne family. The House of Payne spin-off stars LaVan Davis and Cassi Davis as Curtis and Ella Payne respectively, who are ready to enjoy retired life. However, unbeknownst to Ella and their now adult kids, Curtis has already made arrangements to permanently move to Florida. After what was supposed to be a brief road trip to the Sunshine State, Ella suddenly finds herself settling down in the fictitious low-income town of Sun Coast, where Curtis has invested them in a bad real estate deal and committed to a new business. Luckily, they get some unique moral support from their cousin JoAnn (Jackée Harry). Becoming part of a new church, making new friends, and coping with the neighborhood isn't easy, but they soon realize that they can find new purpose in their lives.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: (18):
Kids say: Not yet rated

This mildly entertaining series, in classic sitcom style, features an array of events designed to generate laughs while highlighting the importance of extended family. The revived characters remain imperfect, and tensions are common, but they are ultimately used to communicate some important life lessons.

As is the case with much of Tyler Perry's work, the show is written to reflect contemporary black culture. While fans will appreciate his comedic style, others may consider the jokes to be stereotypical. Nonetheless, The Paynes is an overall positive viewing experience.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about some of the life lessons offered on The Paynes. Who is primarily responsible for teaching them? How do people in your family learn from each other?

  • The Paynes brings back characters from a previous show. Why do you think reboots and continuations are so popular?

TV Details

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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 suggesting a diversity update.

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