Poster for WKRP in Cincinnati

WKRP in Cincinnati (1978) Parents Guide: Is the series OK for kids?

Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language

When a Cincinnati radio station switches from sedate music to top-40 rock 'n' roll, its staff of oddball characters is forced to switch gears quickly. New programming director Andy Travis brings in a new DJ named Venus Flytrap to work with the station's burned-out veteran, Dr. Johnny Fever. Neurotic newsman Les Nessman, eager beaver Bailey Quarters, sleazy salesman Herb Tarlek, blonde bombshell Jennifer Marlowe, who serves as the station's ultra-capable receptionist, and station manager Arthur Carlson, whose domineering mother owns… Sign up for the full guide

TV-PG • 1978 • 4 seasons

7.6
Average rating by Bontent members
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Age
13+

WKRP in Cincinnati is a classic workplace sitcom about an eccentric group of employees at a rock-and-roll radio station. Its TV-PG rating reflects frequent sexual innuendo, recurring jokes about substance use, and mature thematic material that was common for its era. Parents should be aware of constant suggestive humor, particularly from a lecherous salesman character, and casual alcohol consumption in most episodes. Additionally, the… Sign up for the full guide

Cast

Gary Sandy
Gary Sandy
Howard Hesseman
Howard Hesseman
Tim Reid
Tim Reid
Loni Anderson
Loni Anderson
Frank Bonner
Frank Bonner
Gordon Jump
Gordon Jump
Richard Sanders
Richard Sanders
Jan Smithers
Jan Smithers
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Is WKRP in Cincinnati appropriate for kids?

WKRP in Cincinnati is a classic workplace sitcom about an eccentric group of employees at a rock-and-roll radio station. Its TV-PG rating reflects frequent sexual innuendo, recurring jokes about substance use, and mature thematic material that was common for its era. Parents… Read more — free account

Content severity in WKRP in Cincinnati Sign up for season-by-season breakdown

Substances Intense 10/10
Language Strong 6/10
Sex/Nudity Intense 10/10
Violence/Gore Intense 10/10
Mature Themes Intense 10/10

Sex and nudity in WKRP in Cincinnati

Sexual content remains moderate, primarily through innuendo and suggestive situations rather than explicit depictions. Episodes feature discussions of dating, implied romantic relationships, and character attraction. For example, Johnny and Bailey are mistakenly believed to be sleeping together, and a dating service is revealed to be a front for prostitution in "I'll Take Romance." Jennifer's allure is a running gag, and Venus often makes suggestive comments. Clothing is typical for the era, with some cleavage…

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Violence and gore in WKRP in Cincinnati

Violence is minimal and non-graphic. The two-part episode "An Explosive Affair" involves a bomb threat at the station, creating tension and peril but no actual explosion or injuries. A fire breaks out in the building in "Fire," trapping characters, but also without graphic depiction. Minor slapstick or comedic physical altercations are rare, and no gore is present.

Language in WKRP in Cincinnati

Language is consistently mild across the season. Common expressions include "damn" and "hell," used for emphasis in comedic or frustrating situations. There is some mild innuendo, particularly from characters like Johnny and Venus, but it is generally subtle and not explicit. No strong profanity is used.

Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in WKRP in Cincinnati

Substance use is infrequent but present. Johnny Fever continues his implied casual drug use and occasional drinking, sometimes appearing slightly intoxicated. A significant storyline in "Pills" involves the station inadvertently promoting dangerous diet pills that are essentially legal speed, leading to a strong discussion of drug abuse and its consequences. Casual social drinking by various characters at parties or in offices occurs but is not a central focus.

Mature themes in WKRP in Cincinnati

This season explores various mature themes including death, ethics, and identity. "Heart from the Heart" deals with the fear of illness and death, while "Jennifer and the Will" involves the practicalities and rumors surrounding a character's demise. The episode "Pills" delves into the serious topic of drug abuse and corporate responsibility. "The Consultant" touches on corporate manipulation and ethical business practices. "The Impossible Dream" focuses on existential concerns and career aspirations. "The Creation…

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is WKRP in Cincinnati appropriate for kids?

Bontent's parent guide suggests WKRP in Cincinnati is best for ages 13+. It's rated TV-PG. WKRP in Cincinnati is a classic workplace sitcom about an eccentric group of employees at a rock-and-roll radio station. Its TV-PG rating reflects frequent sexual innuendo, recurring jokes about substance use, and…

What age rating does WKRP in Cincinnati have?

WKRP in Cincinnati is rated TV-PG. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 13+.

What is WKRP in Cincinnati about?

WKRP in Cincinnati is a classic workplace sitcom about an eccentric group of employees at a rock-and-roll radio station. Its TV-PG rating reflects frequent sexual innuendo, recurring jokes about substance use, and mature thematic material that was common for its era. Parents should be aware of constant suggestive…

How many seasons does WKRP in Cincinnati have?

WKRP in Cincinnati has 4 seasons covered in this parent guide. Sign up to see a season-by-season breakdown.

Is there sex or nudity in WKRP in Cincinnati?

Our reviewers didn't note meaningful sexual content across WKRP in Cincinnati.

How violent is WKRP in Cincinnati?

Violence isn't a standout concern across WKRP in Cincinnati per our reviewers.

Is the language in WKRP in Cincinnati appropriate for kids?

Strong language isn't flagged across WKRP in Cincinnati.

Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in WKRP in Cincinnati?

Drug, alcohol, and smoking depictions are minimal across WKRP in Cincinnati.

What mature themes appear in WKRP in Cincinnati?

Heavy thematic material isn't a defining feature of WKRP in Cincinnati.

Where can I read the full WKRP in Cincinnati parent guide?

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