Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Western cop reboot hypes Texas Ranger family drama.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 12+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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Walker
What's the Story?
WALKER, a reboot of the classic series Walker, Texas Ranger (1993–2001), is a dramatic series about a Texas Ranger who lives and works by his own moral code. Cordell Walker (Jared Padalecki) is a recent widower and father who has returned to Austin, Texas, after working undercover for nearly two years. But the committed family man must find a way to reconnect with his teenage children (played by Violet Brandon and Kale Culley), who have been living with his mom, Abeline (Molly Hagan), and father (Mitch Pileggi). They've also forged a special bond with their uncle, Assistant District Attorney Liam Walker (Keegan Allen), who stepped in to help. Meanwhile, Walker's former partner, Larry James (Coby Bell), has been promoted, and he now has to work with new Texas Ranger Mickie Ramirez (Lindsey Morgan). There's a lot to adjust to, but Walker is committed to his job, and to making sure that he's the father his children need him to be.
Is It Any Good?
This contemporary reboot takes a different approach from the classic Texas-themed crime fighting show by making it more of a family drama than an action series. This version of the maverick Ranger is less edgy, thanks to the lack of martial arts-fighting tactics that Chuck Norris brought to the original role decades ago, and which would be characterized as police brutality today. Cordell Walker is also a more vulnerable figure, who is struggling to be a better parent and a better law enforcement officer after suffering extreme loss.
Fans of the original series may not appreciate this somewhat gentler story, which lacks the fast-action momentum and climactic moments to keep it consistently interesting. But those new to the franchise will find that Walker is driven by some dramatic but largely unoriginal storylines, like grieving the loss of a beloved wife, dealing with a troubled teen, and struggling to bond with one's more traditional father. It's not the worst of crime fighting shows, and it does have some positive themes. But for many, the series will fall flat.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what makes Walker different from Walker, Texas Ranger. Why doesn't this version of Texas Ranger Walker perform martial arts? Does this change the overall nature of the show, or just the character?
Does an action series need to be violent to be entertaining? Or do violent behavior and activities have to part of the narrative for it to work?
TV Details
- Premiere date : January 21, 2021
- Cast : Jared Padalecki , Lindsey Morgan , Coby Bell
- Network : CW
- Genre : Drama
- TV rating :
- Last updated : February 14, 2022
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