
TV Show review
This Is Us
Woke Score
Lower is better
- Release Date
- September 20, 2016
- Age Rating
- TV-14
- Runtime
- N/A
Where to Watch
United States · Last checked 5/13/2026
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Breakdown
Factors & Ratings
These are the editorial factors and ratings behind our score for This Is Us.
Representation / casting choices
The Black lead and interracial adoptive family sit at the center of the story and create visible emphasis on racial differences from the start.
Political / ideological dialogue
Several episodes include direct character talks about racism, police violence, and what white family members owe Black relatives in awareness and action.
Identity-driven story themes
Randall's ongoing struggle with his Black identity, sense of not belonging in a white family, and search for his roots drives a large part of the series across seasons.
Institutional / cultural critique
The show questions colorblind parenting and urges white characters to actively recognize and respond to the racism their Black family member faces in daily life and society.
