Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Late-night comedy has iffy humor, awkward moments.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The Wanda Sykes Show
What's the Story?
In THE WANDA SYKES SHOW, actress/comedienne Wanda Sykes -- with the help of comedian Keith Richardson and Portia the Drag Queen -- offers her opinions about contemporary politics, racial issues, and popular culture. Each episode is a mix of stand-up comedy routines, satirical sketches, and interviews with celebrity guest panels seated at "Wanda's Bar." Segments like "Wandarama" and "Inappropriate Games" are also part of the entertainment.
Is It Any Good?
The series creates an awkward tension as it attempts to combine political satire with an edited version of Sykes' trademark off-color humor. While some of her stand-up routines and pre-recorded skits have a few funny moments, most of the show is uncomfortably slow as Sykes attempts to deliver jokes in a style that doesn't match her personality.
Despite Sykes' restraint, the show's attempts at pushing network TV boundaries -- by featuring a transgendered personality and offering stereotypical racial commentary -- are obvious. Sykes' anti-conservative point of view is also pretty clear. It's definitely edgy, but as far as late-night comedy goes, it somehow misses the mark.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about using a TV show to promote a specific political point of view. Do you think Sykes' jokes about political figures and their beliefs are appropriate?
Where do you draw the line between funny and offensive? Are stereotypes ever appropriate, even when used jokingly? What if they're being used to make a larger point?
Do you think certain "target" audiences will view this show differently than other viewers from other racial/ethnic groups? Why or why not?
TV Details
- Premiere date : November 7, 2009
- Cast : Keith Richardson , Wanda Sykes
- Network : Fox
- Genre : Comedy
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 24, 2022
Did we miss something on diversity?
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