Ok, I’m really not a prude when it comes to the shows and movies my kids watch. They’ve seen many of the Marvel movies, the Harry Potter series…heck, our boys even watched Dumb & Dumber. I understand when a movie is rated PG-13, there’s going to be some violence, probably some language, and most likely some sexual innuendos. I’ll screen a movie and usually check out Common Sense Media before I let them watch something PG-13 though.
Full House was one of my favorite shows growing up. It was innocent (although I’m sure there were some references and innuendos that went over my head), funny, and made me want to be a Tanner. And as I’m sure was the case for many of my fellow 30-somethings, I was kinda a little {a lot} excited when I found out Fuller House was coming out on Netflix. I had no reason to doubt the “G” rating, because my nostalgic memories of Full House made me trust in Tanner family values. That was probably my first mistake.
Superman and I made the mistake of watching the first episode with our kids, and then handing over the remote so they could binge-watch the rest of the episodes. It wasn’t until afterwards that I realized this show was grossly misrepresented with a G rating. I just don’t want other parents to be caught off-guard like I was.
Let me add that this show is by no means awful. I would even go so far as to say it could be a family show, but this “G” rating needs to be changed. Because if this is what a “G” rating means, I’m scared for what the next Disney movie is going to look like. I like to know that when I see a show on Netflix rated as “G,” I can trust that my kids can watch it, and I need have no worries. I wouldn’t have any qualms with the show if this was rated TV-PG, because I know that nowadays, PG means I need to proceed with a little caution, and probably watch episodes before I let my younger kids watch something.
According to tvguidelines.org, a “G” rating is described as:
Most parents would find this program suitable for all ages. Although this rating does not signify a program designed specifically for children, most parents may let younger children watch this program unattended. It contains little or no violence, no strong language and little or no sexual dialogue or situations.
“PG” is described as:
This program contains material that parents may find unsuitable for younger children. Many parents may want to watch it with their younger children. The theme itself may call for parental guidance and/or the program may contain one or more of the following: some suggestive dialogue (D), infrequent coarse language (L), some sexual situations (S), or moderate violence (V).
This seems like a much more appropriate rating to me, given the following:
Using the word “damn.” Ok, I know I’m wayyyyyy more sensitive to words than the general population, but this word was used with emphasis in the first episode. Probably not a big deal for most people, but we don’t use that word in our house, and I know that one of my girls in particular repeats things like they’re going out of style. It was just disappointing, and to me, something I shouldn’t have to worry about in a G-rated show.
Sexual references & innuendos. A lot of sexual references probably go over my kids’ heads, but when Stephanie Tanner puts on a red dress in episode one that basically exposes her, ahem…much-endowed chest, and conversation occurs around this, it was just…uncomfortable. Throughout the episodes, her boobies are shown a bit too much for comfort, and I think were an unnecessary focus. There are also references to Jesse’s semen in episode four, as well as an {albeit probably unnoticed by my kids} awkward reference to masturbation. Kimmy talks about how her window used to face Danny’s bedroom, and she had seen him naked numerous times. I dunno, it was just creepy and uncomfortable to me, and I try not to ignore those feelings, because when you ignore the little ones, pretty soon you’re ignoring the big ones. All of these things, to me, warrant at least a PG-rating. Am I just too overprotective?
Two girls kiss. Even though this kiss was unwanted by Stephanie, she and Kimmy have a full-on, more-than-two-second smooch in episode 12. Again, I’m probably more uncomfortable with this than a lot of people are, but it just doesn’t seem like this is something that should be in a G-rated show. PG? Maybe. I understand the world we live in. But to me, “G” means innocent, and this wasn’t innocent to me.
Plentiful alcohol use. We’ve talked to our kids a lot about alcohol and the devastating effects it can have on people. We have had many people in our extended family negatively impacted in huge ways by it, and being that some of our kids have substance abuse prevalent in their genes, I’m probably a little extra sensitive to this. Now mind you, I don’t have anything against alcohol in and of itself, I’ll even enjoy a hard cider every now and then. But seeing drugs and alcohol referenced in multiple episodes, with DJ and Stephanie out partying and “having a blast” while drunk doesn’t speak “rated G” to me.
Again, PG for this show would be ok. But the G-rating needs to go, in my opinion. What do you think? Am I too sensitive? Let me know in the comments!
Kelly Sanchez says
I feel as though the original show’s demographic was more kids and Tweens where as this show is something for the moms that grew up watching the show and want to watch something entertaining and much, much cleaner than the networks offer. Honestly my kids (teens) were bored with it and found the humor “cheesy”. I can’t imagine if they were younger that they would want to watch it.
Violet says
I suppose, though I still love it
Ashley says
No I completely agree with you- I’m 18 and thought the same!! So many unnecessary comments. Fuller house isn’t as good as I’d thought!
Meghan Dailey-Faulhaber says
I would have assumed that it would be pretty similar to the original, but your post proved me wrong! Not that I’m surprised. I have been routinely shocked by the ABC Family network, though they recently changed their name to “Freeform.” I don’t get streaming Netflix so probably won’t watch this, but it seems sort of “base,” if you know what I mean. Semen and boobies? I can get that anywhere. LOL
sabrina says
I think you have reviewed this show “bang-on”. Thanks for putting this out there for those who haven’t seen it. 🙂
Michelle says
I agree! When I watched Fuller House I was amazed it had a G rating and it scares me that the rating system is becoming too lenient! If this show is rated G, then will shows that should be rated R be rated PG or PG 13?
Marina says
I agree with you! My kids LOVE Full House & we watch the reruns on Nick. However, all of us (kids included) felt the show was inappropriate. We discontinued watching the series. We’re all kinda bummed
Michelle Welch says
Thank you for the review. I too have been a little (ok a lot) dismayed at what is allowed in “G” ratings these days. Just because the world says it’s ok, doesn’t mean there aren’t those of us who still want to maintain a little bit of innocence in our children and grandchildren. They get enough crassness in the world. Our home should be our sanctuary from all that and we should be able to trust rating systems. Are my kids or grandkids going to hear it or see it or say it out in the “real” world? Of course they are. But that doesn’t mean I have to have it in my home. Way to go. Always love your honesty.
Linda says
I feel the same way as you do. I watched part of the first episode and I don’t know what bothered me most, the canned laughter or the “adult” humor. Never mind the swearing. It’s definitely not rated G in my opinion.
Leann says
I completely agree! I am surprised that I am not hearing from anyone else that feels this way. I have heard many raving about how great it is. But, I think there is so much unnecessary bad language, innuendos, alcohol, etc. It doesn’t need all of this to be entertaining.
Hayley says
I’m in my 30’s and was curious to see how this would be in comparison to Full House. My husband and I have watched three episodes and we’re done watching. We really wanted it to succeed, but it is definitely not a G-rating. I agree with one of the comments, that it is probably geared towards 30-somethings and not young families.
Jennifer says
Totally agree..but as my kids pointed out,it is Netflix and they have a different take on ratings and the way they let things slide. It certainly surprised me..especially since I expected it to be different because candance bure was in it.. I guess I expected wholesome entertainment.
Tiffany Butler says
I agree with you completely! I didn’t like having to explain what sexy meant to me 5 year old (episode 3).
Jennifer Cunningham says
I agree. I was disappointed. The show could still be funny with way more subtlty in it’s jokes and being cleaner. The only way to watch tv with the kids nowdays is to watch old reruns.
Candice says
Although I enjoyed the series I was really surprised at the difference from the original. Some of the items they let slide with Candace being involved took me aback too. Sadly this seems to be the new “Disney”. Our children’s childhoods are no longer as innocent by entertainment standards.
Mary Evelyn King says
I did not watch it with kids around, but every one of your thoughts ran through my head at numerous times while watching the episodes. I did enjoy most of it, but was surprised at how racy and inappropriate some parts of each episode were. And they haven’t done much to encourage healthy marriages since they make a joke of it in several instances. Definitely need to change the rating, or I will have to start screening G-rated shows before my kids watch.
Sue says
Agreed & Agreed.
Raia says
Thanks for the heads-up! I was kinda looking forward to watching this show, but now not so much… :p Guess we’re sticking to nature documentaries for family time.
robyn says
Thank you! I haven’t watched any of them yet, but I wont be watching with my daughters now. I don’t think you are too sensitive about this stuff at all. Everyone is way too desensitized these days, in my opinion! Keep it up!
Concerned says
This is NOT a G rated show! G means turn it on and leave the kids. This is not one of those. Netflix is notorious for doing this and people should be calling them on it along with these posts here. Nothing will change if nothing is done. I was watching a G rated show on Netflix and in later episodes (from other countries), of the reality show, they showed nudity and used fowl language. I called Netflix and was told it would be looked into. Nothing changed.
Alison says
I totally agree! My kids saw full house on vacation and were so excited about this show. I excused the cleavage shots in the first episode, since it was a one time thing. The second episode I started to watch with my son when he was home sick from school. There were awkward gay references, scantily dressed women and it was just inappropriate. I thought this is “G”!?! What the heck. I told my son that he is no longer allowed to watch that show. Really disappointed!
M says
I believe G rating should be completely innocent like sesame Street. It should not have anything that would be awkward for a 2 year old to repeat. I agree with you.
Tina Brenize says
Thank you for this post! I felt the exact same way and ended up turning it off after episode 3. I was shocked. And when I expressed my concerns and opinions to friends (when the topic came up), they ALL looked at me like I was crazy. I had a hard time believing I was the only one that felt this way but then started thinking maybe I was Being a little too prudent but I am very happy to hear that I am not the only one!
Carlos says
Stop being prudes. Sure, the show is more “PG” but just because it’s a bit more mature does not mean YOU have to quit watching it. I understand if you don’t want to let your children watch this (although I wouldn’t mind if my children watched something like THIS show), but the humor is not grotesque. It baffles me to see how many adults on here are shaken by the show’s use of humor. I guess that is what happens when you grow up sheltered.
And as a side point, Fuller House is NOT a Disney show, therefore it shouldn’t be treated as one.
Vivian says
so the silly “two girl kiss” that lasted 2 seconds made you uncomfortable and was not suitable for your children, but the full blow MAKE-OUTS between Dj and 2 different men were? -I agree the show is wrongly rated but I think the short kiss between two girls should be the least of your problems with the show.
Dan says
I agree with you that it should be rated PG, but I disagree with some of your reasons. The first thing to understand is that TV episodes in America are generally rated on four content descriptors: Suggestive Dialogue, Language, Sex and Violence (D, L, S and V as may be shown in the rating box at the start of the show).
The fact that some characters sometimes mention alcohol would do nothing to increase the rating. Kids are usually introduced to alcohol fairly early on anyway; if not by their parents then through school. Plus alcohol is only harmful if a kid gets their hand on it. It is the adults’ responsibility to keep alcohol out of the hands of kids, and it’s not like a kid can just go to a store and buy alcohol.
Simple kissing is not thought of as sex. It’s when it gets to making out (french kissing, rubbing and/or groping) when it becomes more associated with sex.
The word “damn” seems to have become more desensitized and is barely even considered a curse word anymore, much like “hell”. You could maybe argue that they still shouldn’t be used in a G-rated show though.
The sexual innuendos/suggestive dialogue part, combined with the focus and exposure of Stephanies boobs I can agree with. Although a kid is not likely to understand the adult side of jokes which would be fine if there is a part of the joke that is meant for kids. Otherwise the kid may not understand what is going on or may even start to learn about more mature themes, which is what some parents want to avoid. But it’s not too explicit such as to go above a PG rating, so I would rate it PG for suggestive dialogue. However, as the networks rate the TV shows themselves, they may have different standards than others and may even be tempted to push the envelope, or give a show a lower rating than it deserves.
Julie Mae says
Interesting that you had such a problem with two girls kissing but you were totally ok with all the other male/female adults kissing. And there was quite a bit in the season. Instead of just saying there was a lot of making out/ kissing you had to be sure to point out that it was two females. Lady, it’s 2016.
Person1234 says
Thank you!!! I just dislike that Steph didn’t consent!
Christopher says
I agree with this article, about g being completely wrong, it has way to many sexual innuendos. no way should this be g.
Sue says
This is ridiculous. I didn’t know this was rated G. I’ve tried to watch this show because I’d heard it was a family show and was hoping for better, but after watching some and reading your article it should defiantly be rated PG-13. For sure!
Linda says
I won’t discredit the rating scale of what is & isnt G or PG rated. That being said my 9 year old daughter has been watching reruns of full house & when Fuller House came out we were excited to say the least. I can tell you that my daughter didn’t catch on to any of the sexual innuendo or realize that Steffanies “boobies” were the focus of the 1st episode. While I do agree ratings should hold true to what we let our kids watch I do not think that its not a kid show. The lessons that cone through to our kids are stronger than what we see as adults. DJ’s “mylanta” remark is similar to my “goodnight” used instead of my God or worse god damn ect…..it really is a family friendly show
Laura Bender says
I completely agree with you! This show makes so many sexual remarks and they were talking about shots of tequila last night. Very disappointed with the show.
MM says
Thank you for this post. I’m a young adult who still lives at home, and I recently watched the first season of Fuller House with my siblings. We were so excited to have a show to watch together again, and we loved watching Full House when we were younger!! Though Fuller House has its good parts, and the scenes with the kids made me laugh a lot, I can’t watch any more of it due to the inappropriate, immoral scenes. I felt extremely unsettled watching the Stephanie/Kimmy kissing scene with my Christian values. In general, I feel rather uncomfortable watching the show, and that’s my signal to stop watching. I tried to give it a chance. It’s really too bad, because it could be a great show, if the producers didn’t feel the need to incorporate nasty stuff within it.
JohnRP says
I became aware of the series earlier this year when the “Varsity Blues” scandal broke. I have not been watching much broadcast TV since I do not have cable or even an over-the-air antenna that can receive my local stations. For the last five years, I have only watched broadcast TV a few times. At home, it has been free Internet sources for my wife and me.
After hearing the show won a Nickelodeon Viewers’ Choice award, I became curious what people were saying about the show. I was shocked by the few clips that I saw and read about online. This is a TV-G show?
I do not know when it was changed, I checked Netflix’s page for Fuller House. The rating has been changed to a TV-PG. I am not sure when. I thought it still had a TV-G earlier this year (2019). It has since been changed to TV-PG at some point.
Many sites on the Web have indicated including this page that the original rating had been TV-G. Focus on the Family’s Plugged-In did a review and a vodcast review about Fuller House. They agreed that this show is not “family-friendly” by their standards; one of the reviewers on their Vodcast was also questioning why this show was originally rated TV-G.
Obviously, something went wrong behind the scenes. The creator of the show and “Full House” was fired in 2018 for allegations of–to summarize–“bad and questionable behavior” in the writer’s room and on-the-set. This has been reported in many news sites.
Candace was a guest speaker at Liberty University back in January this year. She somewhat addressed that she has taken some heat. The media did not cover that part of the talk. You can find it on Liberty’s YouTube page and Liberty’s Convocation page, it is their guest speaker series their undergraduates have to attend. There are more problems here that claiming Candace is “only playing a character.”
Quinn says
i just told the kids to turn it off when they started talking about unwanted hickey. geez lol