Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Comedy + science = fun learning experience for tweens.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Weird but True
What's the Story?
Based on the popular National Geographic book series, WEIRD BUT TRUE features a team of science-minded people showcasing some of the fun, innovative, and strange things happening around us every day. The first two seasons of this Emmy Award-winning series feature Charlie and Kirby Engelman in their workroom, where they raise questions and discuss details about a specific topic that sparks their curiosity, or that is associated with a project they are working on, while the third season stars Charlie and kids' entertainer Carly Ciarrocchi (The Big Fun Crafty Show). The duos travel around the country to meet with scientists, engineers, environmentalists, and other experts to learn more about the subject matter. Throughout it all, with the help of computer graphics and comedy skits, they break down scientific facts and other interesting elements associated with what they're learning.
Is It Any Good?
This fast-paced, quirky, and delightful series combines documentary-style exploration with comedy to introduce viewers to the science associated with a wide range of topics. From learning about horns, antlers, and other animal headgear to understanding the innovative spirit, engineering principles, and psychological mindset required for extreme sports, the hosts offer simple explanations about the subject matter and corresponding research. The humorous banter helps keep it entertaining, but the amount of information presented in a single episode can sometimes feel a little overwhelming. Nonetheless, Weird but True is very informative, and there's a good chance you'll learn something new every time you tune in.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the different subjects that Weird but True looks at. Did you ever think about them scientifically? Does looking at them from this point of view change your ideas about them?
How can media and technology help us learn more about things like STEM, environmentalism, and wildlife? Does presenting it in entertaining ways make it easier for people to understand? Does this series succeed at this?
TV Details
- Premiere date : September 10, 2016
- Cast : Charlie Engelman , Kirby Engelman
- Network : Disney+
- Genre : Educational
- Topics : STEM , Family Stories ( Siblings )
- Character Strengths : Curiosity , Teamwork
- TV rating :
- Award : Emmy - Emmy Award Winner
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate