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Breaking Bonaduce

(Rated NR, Reality TV, Starring Danny Bonaduce, Gretchen Bonaduce, Where to watch: VH1, Online)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 15, age appropriate for kids over 99; suggested age 15.

  • Is it any good?

    2.0

  • Common Sense says

    Uncomfortable look at former child star's woes.

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 15–18

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Sends the message that trying to make amends for your faults is a good thing, as long as you don't repeat your mistakes. Danny is a (hopefully) recovering addict and has jealousy and anger-management issues.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Not an issue.

  • Sex:

    Bonaduce ogles other women and makes sexual innuendos directed at his wife. Some discussion of Danny and Gretchen's sex life, as well as of an affair Danny had a long time ago.

  • Language:

    "F--king cool" (with the first part bleeped) is as bad as it gets.

  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Bonaduce is a recovering drug addict and binge drinker; some of what he does while high/drunk (including standing on a precarious rooftop and carjacking someone) is shown, as is his time in rehab. Lots of discussion of his addiction.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Breaking Bonaduce

Parents need to know that in this series, star Danny Bonaduce (a Partridge Family alum) deals with his alcohol and drug addiction, as well as other strains on his marriage and family life. He's spent time in rehab and is trying to rebuild his marriage. While his intentions are good, the message -- that partying hard and in the process hurting those you love makes for funny TV fodder -- definitely isn't. (Note: In April 2007, Bonaduce's wife filed for divorce.)

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about drugs and alcohol. Why do some people have a problem controlling the amount they drink, while others don't? What makes someone an addict? Why do some people become addicts even when they know about the harmful effects of substance abuse? What messages does the show send about addiction? Families can also discuss counseling. Do you think their sessions are helping Danny and Gretchen? What are the benefits of therapy? The drawbacks (if any)?
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