Kickin' It
A solid choice
Ages 7–13First shown 2011
Set at the Bobby Wasabi Martial Arts Academy, a strip mall martial arts studio and worst dojo in the under-performing nationwide Bobby Wasabi chain. Revolves around a ragtag crew of lovable misfits who welcome a hotshot skateboarder named Jack who will teach them about life, karate, and how to just plain kick it.
Our verdict
- Good influence 3/5
- Parent appeal 3/5
- Well made 3/5
Grating audio: mixed views
Reviewers generally enjoy the show's emphasis on loyalty and the impressive martial arts choreography performed by skilled actors. However, many find the humor relies too heavily on predictable tropes, over-the-top acting, and an intrusive laugh track. While the core messages about friendship are strong, they are occasionally undercut by stereotypical characters and a portrayal of adults as incompetent.
Why these scores
Good influence
Does it show behaviour you'd be happy to see copied?
3out of 5
The show is frequently praised for its core themes of loyalty, teamwork, and standing up to bullies, with the lead character often resisting peer pressure to act ethically. However, there is significant criticism regarding the portrayal of adults as incompetent or easy to trick, alongside reports of crude humor, racial stereotypes, and occasional unpunished aggression. While many see positive moral lessons, others point to a decline in character behavior in later seasons where protagonists can become more self-centered.
Parent appeal
Will you enjoy watching it with them?
3out of 5
Reviews are sharply divided on whether this is watchable for parents. Some adults find the slapstick humor genuinely funny and the stories engaging enough to watch alongside their children, while a substantial number of others describe the show as cringeworthy, unrealistic, and tedious. For many, the show remains firmly in the category of 'just for kids,' with plots and acting that may feel too exaggerated for adult tastes.
Well made
Are the writing, animation and sound made with care?
3out of 5
The show's standout feature is its high-quality martial arts choreography, bolstered by lead actors who possess real-life black belts. However, other production elements receive lower marks, specifically the overreliance on a relentless laugh track and some instances of poor special effects or visible props. Commentary also highlights a noticeable dip in writing and production quality during the final season.
Watch-outs
Overstimulating: not enough data
We haven't found enough independent sources to say yet.
Toy-led: not enough data
We haven't found enough independent sources to say yet.
Grating audio: mixed views
There is a conflict between the show's music and its sound effects. While the high-energy theme song is widely praised by viewers as a 'banger' and very catchy, there are consistent complaints about the audio being hard to listen to due to constant screaming, shrieking, and a repetitive, intrusive laugh track.
Where to watch
Stream for free
- Not that we know of
Stream with a subscription
- Not that we know of
Rent or buy
- Not that we know of
DVD and Blu-ray
Last updated 18 October 2026.