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A Different World

(Rated TV-G, Comedy, Starring Lisa Bonet, Jasmine Guy, Kadeem Hardison, Where to watch: Nickelodeon, Oxygen, DVD)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 8, age appropriate for kids over 12; suggested age 12.

  • Is it any good?

    4.0

  • Common Sense says

    Cosby Show spin-off showcases college life.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 12 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Though varied, all of the main characters are passionate about their beliefs and driven toward their goals. The show offers a unique look at life at an African-American college. Strong cast diversity, with a thoughtful approach to mature themes dealing with race and other issues.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Some episodes deal with violence-related themes, such as date rape.

  • Sex:

    Some scenes involve kissing, and topics sometimes revolve around sex, but the overall tone is light and innocuous. Episodes sometimes deal with issues like unplanned pregnancy.

  • Language:

    Mild: "Damn," "oh my god," etc.

  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Some party scenes include alcohol, and while viewers doing the math may notice that underclassmen likely aren't yet 21, nobody draws attention to the fact.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About A Different World

Parents need to know that this show features strong, well-educated African-American characters at a historically black college working toward careers in medicine, politics, and the humanities. Viewers are exposed to black history, dance, and music, as well as political issues and then-current events, such as the 1992 Los Angeles riots. The show thoughtfully touches on mature subject matter like unplanned pregnancy, discrimination, and date rape.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about college life. What challenges do college students face? How do they learn to prioritize their goals and their time? How does college help prepare you for the real world? Families also can talk about race. Why is race such a touchy subject in America? How does this show highlight the similarities among different races? The differences?
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