Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Edgy mock docu mixes improv laughs, insults.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
FREE RADIO is an improv comedy series about Lance (Lance Krall), a rather dimwitted radio intern who, after the station's popular shock jock leaves for another gig, becomes the host of his own show, \"Moron in the Morning.\" Along with weather-girl-turned-co-host Anna (Anna Vocino), Lance interviews A-list guests ranging from TV stars to fashion trendsetters. His awful interviewing skills -- which usually result in ridiculous gaffes, on-air temper tantrums, and insulted celebs -- make him pretty hard to take seriously. But, much to the dismay of station manager James Reed (Brian Huskey), Lance's serious lack of talent scores major ratings.
Is It Any Good?
This mockumentary-style series features lots of subtle humor resulting from reactions to Lance's foolish commentary. The best moments actually come from the celebrity guests' responses to the actor's improvisational style. But some viewers might find Lance's remarks too insensitive to be funny.
Free Radio isn't an age-appropriate choice for young kids or even young teens, especially since it includes some strong sexual innuendo and some salty language. But for viewers mature enough to handle it, the series offers some great entertainment.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about intentionally rude or insensitive behavior in TV shows (particularly comedies). What's the difference between "poking fun" at someone and being insulting? Is it OK for comedies to cross the line between the two? Who decides what's funny and what's just plain rude? Families can also talk about the mockumentary genre. What kinds of things make these comedies look or sound like real documentaries? Does anything make it obvious that they're not?
TV Details
- Premiere date : February 3, 2008
- Cast : Anna Vocino , Brian Huskey , Lance Krall
- Network : VH1
- Genre : Comedy
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 20, 2019
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