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The Wild Thornberrys
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 12 parent reviews
Based on 13 kid reviews
Kids say this show is a nostalgic classic, often praised for teaching children about animals and nature, despite some mixed opinions on character portrayals, particularly the older sister's demeanor and attire. While certain reviewers noted inappropriate elements and character flaws, many felt that the series delivers positive messages and entertaining adventures suitable for all ages.
- nostalgic classic
- teaches about animals
- character flaws
- entertaining adventures
- positive messages
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
THE WILD THORNBERRYS is about a filmmaking family that dashes to a new corner of the globe in each episode -- to Finland, Australia, India, or the Everglades. The Thornberry kids don't attend regular school, they're on vacation all the time, they live in a camper, and the protagonist has a secret power no one knows about. Eliza Thornberry (voiced by Lacey Chabert), not only can speak to animals, but she also meets click-talking Kung people, Maasai, and Aborigines and interacts with everything from aye-ayes, to wombats, to humpback whales.
Is It Any Good?
The premise of the series is tailored to a child's imagination and teaches kids to appreciate animals, to be curious about different ways of living and the vastness of the world. The Thornberrys live a fantasy life, for sure, but the series explores the real customs of many different cultures and the real behavior and habitats of countless kinds of animals.
The Wild Thornberrys also delves into family relationships. OK, so a wild boy found in the jungle and a chimp happen to live with this family, but Eliza and teenager Debbie (Danielle Harris) still struggle to overcome sibling rivalry, learn responsibility, and form independent identities. The show presents a nuclear family living an alternative lifestyle; as a result, even episodes with traditional growing-up themes come across as fresh and new compared to many home and school-centered family shows. Also worth noting is the married relationship here, which is surprisingly rich and multidimensional compared to most marriages seen on television. The Thornberry parents (Tim Curry and Jodi Carlisle), true partners and great role models, include their family in the realization of their own dreams and in the pursuit of travel, creativity, and adventure.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the bickering between the sisters in The Wild Thornberrys . Is it realistic, or do you just find it grating? Young and old viewers may also discuss what a loving sibling relationship should look like.
What are the challenges of living in the wilderness? Is it safe to interact with animals the way Eliza does?
How do the characters in The Wild Thornberrys demonstrate curiosity and empathy? Why are these important character strengths?
TV Details
- Premiere date : September 1, 1998
- Cast : Jodi Carlisle , Lacey Chabert , Tim Curry
- Network : Nickelodeon
- Genre : Kids' Animation
- Topics : Animals ( Wild Animals )
- Character Strengths : Curiosity , Empathy
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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