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The Big 4-0

(Rated NR, Reality TV, Starring Tonya West, Jeff Bodean, Derrick Moore, Where to watch: TV Land)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 8, age appropriate for kids over 10; suggested age 10.

  • Is it any good?

    3.0

  • Common Sense says

    Reality show celebrates getting older and better.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 10 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Positive messages about embracing the aging process. Marriage, divorce, and death are discussed, but in the context of looking forward and living a fulfilling life. The people turning 40 are surrounded by supportive, loving friends and family members. The men and women on the show are from a variety of racial and ethnic backgrounds.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    No real violence, but some celebrations include skydiving, playing rough games of football, etc.

  • Sex:

    Mild references to "looking sexy" at 40. Also some discussions of romance and divorce.

  • Language:

    Not an issue.

  • Consumerism:

    Some references to universities like Georgia Tech and some vacation destinations, like Jamaica.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Alcohol (wine, champagne) is served at some of the festivities.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About The Big 4-0

Parents need to know that this mild reality show celebrates the 40th-birthday milestone and focuses on why this age should be looked at positively. Alcohol (wine, champagne) is served at some of the parties, and there are some mild references to looking "sexy," as well as some brief discussions about divorce, accidents, and death. But these subjects are approached from the context of turning over a new leaf and living a positive life. All of that said, it's not likely that kids are going to be particularly interested in a show about a birthday that probably seems impossibly far off to them.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about how TV generally represents people in their 40s. What kind of messages does the media send about aging? Do you think the media puts pressure on people to always look younger than they really are? If so, how? Families can also discuss the changes that take place in people's lives when they turn 40. Why is it such a big milestone for some people?
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