Andi Mack – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

Andi Mack

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

show2017

73%

WISE Score

8.0

TMDB

Disney Channel's surprisingly mature coming-of-age drama where the big sister reveal is actually a mom reveal—cue all the feelings.

8.0

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Andi Mack

show

TV-G, 2017

73%

WISE Score

8.0

TMDB

Disney Channel's surprisingly mature coming-of-age drama where the big sister reveal is actually a mom reveal—cue all the feelings.

8.0

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8.0

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Screenwise Verdict

Andi Mack was genuinely groundbreaking when it aired in 2017—Disney Channel's first show to feature a main character coming out as gay, and it handled non-traditional family structures with unusual depth for the network. The central twist (Bex is Andi's mom, not sister) is a lot, but the show uses it to explore identity, acceptance, and what family really means.

It's more emotionally mature than your average Disney sitcom, which is both its strength and something to consider. If your tween is ready for real conversations about LGBTQ+ identity, teen pregnancy consequences, and family secrets, this is actually a pretty great vehicle. The friendships are genuine, the characters grow, and it doesn't talk down to its audience.

At 8+ years old now, it's not ancient, but it's also not what tweens are buzzing about in 2025. Still totally watchable and relevant for the right kid—especially if you want media that opens doors to important conversations without being preachy.

Age Fit

Best for ages 10-15—tweens and young teens navigating their own identity questions and family dynamics. Too emotionally complex for younger kids, and older teens will likely find it a bit young (though the representation was genuinely ahead of its time).

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

Disney Channel show that centers on family relationships, friendship, and navigating adolescence with emotional depth. The core revelation (Bex is actually Andi's mother, not sister) is handled with care and models working through complex family dynamics. Tone is generally warm and supportive, though deals with realistic tween/teen struggles including identity, family secrets, and growing up.

Imaginative

Andi is described as 'contemplative and artistic,' and the show features creative elements (she makes crafts and jewelry). However, this is primarily a character-driven drama about relationships and self-discovery rather than a show that actively invites creative expression or imaginative world-building. The 'uncharted course of self-discovery' premise shows some originality for Disney Channel's typical fare.

Safe

Groundbreaking Disney Channel show that tackled heavier topics (teen pregnancy backstory, coming out storyline with Cyrus being the first Disney Channel character to say 'I'm gay') but did so age-appropriately. The family secret revelation could be emotionally intense for sensitive viewers. Kids Mode is available. No graphic content, but themes are more mature than typical Disney fare—parents should expect real conversations about identity, sexuality, and non-traditional family structures.

Enriching

Notably progressive for its time—featured Disney's first LGBTQ+ main character storyline, realistic portrayals of diverse family structures, and tackled identity formation during early adolescence with nuance. Strong TMDB rating (8.032) suggests resonance with audiences. Builds empathy around complex family situations, acceptance, and authentic self-expression. Balances entertainment with meaningful coming-of-age themes.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Groundbreaking representation: Disney's first show with an openly gay main character saying 'I'm gay' on screen
Tackles real family complexity—non-traditional structures, secrets, and working through hard truths with emotional intelligence
Strong female friendships and authentic tween experiences beyond the usual Disney formula
Balances serious themes with humor and heart, showing kids that complicated feelings and situations are normal
Andi's artistic side and crafting hobby models creative expression as a coping mechanism

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What to Watch For

The central premise (teen pregnancy, family secret) requires some maturity—younger viewers may need context about why Bex had to hide being Andi's mom
LGBTQ+ storylines are handled beautifully but conservative families may want to preview
Emotional intensity around identity, belonging, and family dynamics—sensitive kids might find some moments heavy
More sophisticated than typical Disney fare—this isn't silly sitcom territory

Conversation Starters

"Andi finds out her whole family structure isn't what she thought. How do you think you'd feel if you learned a big secret like that?"
"Cyrus comes out to his friends during the show. What makes someone a good friend when someone shares something important about themselves?"
"Andi uses art and crafting to process her feelings. What do you do when you're working through something confusing or hard?"
"The show has families that look different from the 'traditional' setup. What makes a family a family, do you think?"

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