The Problem with Jon Stewart

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The Problem with Jon Stewart
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that The Problem with Jon Stewart is a talk show featuring former The Daily Show host Jon Stewart that covers contemporary social, economic, and political problems, as well as their potential solutions. The series is informative and constructive, but often touches on mature topics using irony and innuendo that some may consider inappropriate given the subject matter. Sketches and archive footage sometimes feature explosions and other violent moments, and death is discussed. There's also lots of cursing. The series' accompanying podcast is sometimes promoted during the show.
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What's the Story?
THE PROBLEM WITH JON STEWART is a talk show hosted by former The Daily Show host Jon Stewart about some of the world's biggest problems and possible solutions to them. Using his trademark dry humor, Stewart deconstructs contemporary political, economic, and social issues to a live and TV audience. Comedy sketches featuring celebrities like documentarian Ken Burns and actress Jenifer Lewis add to the social commentary. Meanwhile, episodes also feature panels of guests from around the world that can speak directly to the problems they are discussing, and offer constructive information about the ways they can be solved.
Is It Any Good?
The sharp and intelligent talk show uses a combination of dry humor and serious, informed conversation to offer in-depth examinations of a wide range of issues. From discussing the lack of government support for veterans with deadly health conditions after deployment, to highlighting the complexities of gender identity and sexuality, the series looks at contemporary predicaments being faced nationally and globally. Granted, it's hard to find reasons to laugh when discussing some topics, which makes the humor occasionally awkward. Meanwhile, those who watched Jon Stewart on The Daily Show will find that his schtick hasn't changed much. But The Problem with Jon Stewart gives voice to those who are directly impacted by the problems being discussed, and an opportunity to highlight what could solve them. The weighty conversations become a little less overwhelming because they're offered within the context of doing something good.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about irony. What does it mean when something or someone is ironic? Does this kind of humor translate well on TV? Are there topics that are too serious or sensitive to be discussed ironically?
Are TV series like The Problem with Jon Stewart produced to inspire social change? To encourage people to think differently about issues? Or are they just meant to be entertaining?
TV Details
- Premiere date: September 30, 2021
- Cast: Jon Stewart
- Network: Apple TV+
- Genre: Reality TV
- Topics: Activism
- Character Strengths: Communication, Compassion
- TV rating: TV-MA
- Last updated: January 15, 2023
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