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That '70s Show

(Rated TV-14, Comedy, Starring Ashton Kutcher, Topher Grace, Mila Kunis, Where to watch: Fox, The N, Syndicated, DVD, Online)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 14, age appropriate for kids over 99; suggested age 15.
  • Is it any good?

    3.0
  • Common Sense says

    Edgy sitcom keeps the '70s alive for older teens.

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 15–18

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    Other than the stereotyped exchange student Fez, characters of color apparently don't populate the 1970s Wisconsin suburbs, which may be accurate, but it's noticeable to the discerning eye. Female characters can be portrayed as objects or as vapid -- especially Kitty, the mom -- but they can also provide wisdom.
  • Violence:

    Slapstick at most.
  • Sex:

    The characters think and talk about sex a lot. Not much is shown, but much is alluded to. Donna and Eric have a lot of sex, and Kelso in particular is a very active teenage male.
  • Language:

    Mr. Forman curses quite a bit, using words like "damn," "hell," and "sadistic son-of-a-bitch."
  • Consumerism:

    Characters emphasize the importance of cars, candy, clothes, and all things important to "typical" suburban teens. No noticeable product placement, unless Wisconsin cheese is considered a brand.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Mysterious smoke clouds appear in the basement, and it's clear that the kids are smoking pot. Dad Red drinks beer.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About That '70s Show

Parents need to know that this sitcom is inappropriate for kids under 15 because of the frequent sexual innuendo and activity (implied, not shown) and drug use. Most of the teens are sexually active, and smoking pot in the basement is a regular occurrence.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about the similarities and differences between these '70s teens and modern teens. How are their lives like yours? What's changed in the last few decades? Families can also discuss dating expectations, how it feels to be rejected by a girlfriend or boyfriend, and whether or not it's possible to be friends with someone after a break-up. The lighthearted portrayal of pot smoking might also warrant a conversation with kids that includes some reminders about the serious effects of drug use.

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Our Members Say

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See all 47 member reviews

Most Recent Reviews

  1. I rate this title on for age 15 and give it 5.0
    My concerns are:
    • Inappropriate sexual content
    • Inappropriate language
    • Drinking, smoking, or drug use
    • Negative message

  2. Teen Reviewer Age 13
    Lives in California
    I rate this title on for age 14 and give it 5.0
    My concerns are:
    • Inappropriate sexual content
    • Inappropriate language
    • Drinking, smoking, or drug use

    That 70's Show

    I think this show is very funny, and well written. There is a lot of sex in it. But honselty people, teens in middle or high schooll are aware of sex. so its a funny show, and i recommend it!

  3. Teen Reviewer Age 15
    I rate this title on for age 13 and give it 4.0
    My concerns are:
    • Drinking, smoking, or drug use

    That70'sShow = ?

    GREAT SHOW. Good for 14 year old sophmores especially :D

  4. Kid Reviewer Age 11
    I rate this title iffy for age 11 and give it 5.0
    My concerns are:
    • Inappropriate sexual content
    • Drinking, smoking, or drug use

    I LOVE IT!!

    I love this show but its not the most appropriate thing on TV. Its funny in ways that aren't inappropriate and sometimes whats inappropriate that they try to make funny isn't really that funny.

  5. I rate this title on for age 15 and give it 5.0
    My concerns are:
    • Inappropriate sexual content
    • Inappropriate language
    • Drinking, smoking, or drug use
    • Negative message
    • Negative role models

    For Highschoolers

    LOVE this show. I'm 14, and a freshman, and think it's only appropriate for high schoolers, most likely. I started watching it towards the middle/end of eighth grade, but still. Smoking, drinking, sex, are all big in the show, but it's so freaking hilarious. LOVE it. But not for tweens and younger kids.

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