David Beckham's Soccer USA - NR

Beckham bends it, American style.

TV Rating: NR Network: Fox Soccer Channel Cast: Tim Lovejoy, David Beckham Genre: Reality TV
Available on: Download

Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that this sports magazine show revolves around one of England's (and now America's) tabloid staples -- soccer star David Beckham. Older tweens and teens may have heard about Beckham's off-the-field antics with his equally notorious wife, Victoria (aka "Posh Spice"). While some of the show's interviews with Beckham focus more on that side of his life than his ability on the field, overall it's a straightforward, sports-centric series that can be enjoyed by soccer fans of all ages.

Families can talk about why this show is on the air -- is it because Beckham is so good at soccer or because he's such a big star? Or both? Can athletes become too famous? Is their ability to perform impacted by their celebrity status? How? What other athletes can you think of who are known more for their name than their athletic ability? Families can also discuss the work and commitment it takes for athletes to achieve elite status in competitive sports. What does it take to make it to the top?

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Common Sense Review

Reviewed By: Melissa Camacho

DAVID BECKHAM'S SOCCER USA follows popular British footballer (translation: mega soccer star) David Beckham as he begins his first season with the MLS' (Major League Soccer) Los Angeles Galaxy soccer club.

Hosted by Tim Lovejoy, the magazine-style show is actually targeted at British viewers, introducing them to the American soccer experience. It highlights the differences in the way Americans understand and discuss the sport and provides a British translation of the American commentary and club standings for those who find the stateside version too foreign.

Each episode features video clips of various matches and interviews with Beckham. Footage of other league players -- many of whom play professionally for British football clubs -- is also included. Plus, other British athletes and celebrities who are European football fans join Lovejoy to share their opinions about American soccer and other sports-related topics.

Created by American Idol's Simon Fuller and produced by Beckham himself, the series is essentially a promotional vehicle for the soccer star. Interviews seem to focus just as much on his personal life (including his well-publicized marriage to former Spice Girl Victoria "Posh" Beckham) as his performance in the league. That said, the show does do a good job of bringing much-needed international attention to American MLS and its approximately 18 million American fans.

Fans may also enjoy other sports-related magazine shows, including ESPN's SportsCenter. Teen and adult Beckham fans may also enjoy the film Bend It Like Beckham.

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Content		CS	adults	kids
Content
Sexual Content
Violence Some rough play on the field at times, but it's always shown within the context of the match.
Language
Message
	Social Behavior Featured players hail from many different countries and are of various racial and ethnic heritage. All are male.
	Commercialism The series is a promotional vehicle for Beckham, as well as for American MLS. Various MLS clubs, as well as teams from the United Kingdom, Brazil, and other countries are featured.
	Drug/Alcohol/Tobacco