Parents' Guide to

The Wanda Sykes Show

By Melissa Camacho, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 15+

Late-night comedy has iffy humor, awkward moments.

TV Fox Comedy 2009
The Wanda Sykes Show Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

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

Community Reviews

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age 16+

Based on 3 parent reviews

dauzatb
dauzatb Parent of 2-year-old
January 24, 2010
age 17+

Not As Funny As Chelsea

I think she copied Chelsea Handler's Show! It's set up the same way, with 3 comedians, a side kick (i.e. Chewy)... Not as funny.
franzic
franzic Parent of 14-year-old
November 15, 2009
age 14+

slanted way too left

no diversity in thought - slanted way too left.
See all 3 parent reviews

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?

Our review:
Parents say (3):
Kids say (1):

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

Did we miss something on diversity?

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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