iCarly
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Screen for YOUR familyParent's Guide to iCarly
The "iCarly" media franchise encompasses two distinct television series: the original Nickelodeon show (2007-2012) and its revival on Paramount+ (2021-2023). The initial series centers on teenager Carly Shay and her friends, Sam and Freddie, as they produce a popular web series from Carly's apartment. It's a teen sitcom characterized by comedic skits and relatable adolescent issues, aimed at a younger audience. The 2021 revival revisits the characters as adults, navigating modern challenges such as careers and relationships. While maintaining some comedic elements, this iteration is designed for the original show's now-grown fanbase, incorporating more mature themes and language. Parents should note this significant difference in target audience and content between the two series. The original is generally suitable for tweens, while the revival is intended for older teens and adults.
Things to Consider
LGBTQ & Gender Identity
The original "iCarly" series did not feature explicit LGBTQ+ characters. However, the 2021 revival introduces overt LGBTQ+ representation, particularly through Harper, Carly's roommate and best friend, who is openly pansexual. Her relationships with women are explicitly depicted and normalized within the show's narrative, including a same-sex kiss with her girlfriend Double Dutch. Carly also casually references Harper's past relationships with "non-binary lawyers."
1. In the revival series, Harper is established as pansexual. Carly, in one instance, mentions Harper's dating history, stating she's had relationships with "cute guys, hot girls, and ridiculous gorgeous non-binary lawyers." This explicitly affirms diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. 2. Harper develops a romantic relationship with a sapphic pop singer named Double Dutch (played by openly queer and non-binary actress Poppy Liu). This relationship culminates in an on-screen kiss in the season finale, further normalizing same-sex relationships.
Romance and Sexual Content
The original "iCarly" had mild teen romance with some underlying innuendo. The revival significantly escalates this, featuring explicit discussions of sex work, casual mentions of 'one-night stands,' and mature dating themes. It also includes explicit sexual activity and references to "kinks" and "furries."
Profanity
The original "iCarly" series primarily used substitute words for profanity like "chiz" and "skunk bag." In contrast, the 2021 revival incorporates actual swear words into its dialogue, reflecting its more mature target audience.
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Additional Context
Best For Ages
The original "iCarly" series (2007-2012) is recommended for ages 8+, rated TV-G/PG. The "iCarly" revival series (2021-2023) is recommended for ages 14+ due to significantly more mature themes, language, and sexual content, despite its TV-PG rating. The revival's content is intentionally geared towards adults who watched the original show as children.
Good to Know
Parents should be aware that while both series share the "iCarly" name, the content and target audience shift significantly from the original Nickelodeon show to the Paramount+ revival. The revival is specifically designed for the original show's now-adult fanbase and incorporates mature themes, language, and topics that may not be suitable for younger viewers, even those who enjoyed the original. The change in content is intentional, as confirmed by the cast and crew, who state the revival is a more mature continuation.
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