Today’s column will probably get me labeled a prude by some folks, but so be it. But does Apple TV+’s acclaimed hit series, “Ted Lasso,” have to be rated R?
Okay, technically, since it’s not a movie, it’s not rated R. However, if it were a movie released in theaters, it would receive that rating for language. From the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) rating guidelines: “A motion picture’s single use of one of the harsher sexually-derived words, though only as an expletive, initially requires at least a PG-13 rating. More than one such expletive requires an R rating, as must even one of those words used in a sexual context.”
Why all the ‘F’ bombs?
If you watch “Ted Lasso,” you know that every episode contains a barrage of the “F” word. Would the show — which I love, by the way — be less enjoyable if the language were toned down?
I don’t think so. In fact, it’s the language that hobbles the show. “Ted Lasso” is a cheerful, uplifting show whose title character is all about encouragement, believing in yourself, and seeing the best in others. So why do we need all the “cussing”?
Perhaps I’m in the minority here. After all, “Ted Lasso” has racked up award after award (and is nominated for 20 Emmys!). I just wish I could recommend it to more folks and more age groups.
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Have a great weekend.
This piece sounds like when someone dates and likes someone else for who they are, “but” then tries to change the little things about them that made them lovable as a whole. The show is the product of someone else’s vision, not yours, Dennis.
I agree with you Dennis! The use of cursing for the sake of cursing is unnecessary and does not AT ALL add to the likability of the show.
Yes. You do sound like a prude.
I completely agree, Dennis. A number of people, probably more than most would think, are uncomfortable with such rough language, and thus choose to not watch the show. This reduces the audience size, reduces revenue, and can lead to earlier eventual demise.
This type of language is not necessary to make a good show, and it would be just as good , and even better, if the writers would use language acceptable to a larger audience.
Thank you for bringing this up. Many people agree with you, but are afraid to speak up.