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Grease: You're the One That I Want

(Rated TV-PG, Reality TV, Starring Kathy Marshall, David Ian, Jim Jacobs, Where to watch: NBC)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 6, age appropriate for kids over 8; suggested age 8.
  • Is it any good?

    3.0
  • Common Sense says

    It's electrifying! Reality TV heads to Broadway.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 8 and Up

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    Judges are fairly gentle in their direct criticism of contestants, but out of earshot, they use terms like "a bit nasally" and "hopeless." The open casting call draws contestants of various ethnic backgrounds and different body types, none of whom are eliminated based solely on appearance. But it's clear that appearance does matter, and the judges often comment on whether they can visualize a person as the ideal Sandy or Danny.
  • Violence & scariness:

    Competitors sometimes hit walls or kick chairs in frustration.
  • Sexy stuff:

    Some female contestants dress in skimpy tops and skirts.
  • Language:

    "Oh my god" is common, but anything stronger is rare. A single bleeped word was completely inaudible in one episode.
  • Consumerism:

    Grease movies, plays, and soundtracks are referenced and obviously get lots of publicity.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Grease: You're the One That I Want

Parents need to know that this reality show -- in which contestants vie for leading roles in an upcoming Broadway production of Grease -- plays out much like trendsetter American Idol, but without the rude comments from judges. The show gives plenty of air time to bad performances as well as good ones, but the three judges keep negativity to a minimum. Some contestants (mostly those who are older, heavier, or of color) are told they may not "look the parts" made famous by Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta, but they're never eliminated based on appearance alone, and a few are applauded by the judges for their efforts to break stereotypes.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about the nature of competition. Why do people enter competitions? How do you prepare for them? Kids, what activities do you compete in? What do you gain from the experience? What does it mean to be a good sport? Why is it important? How do judges make their decisions? Do the judges on this show seem fair? Why? This show also offers a great opportunity to discuss appreciation of the arts and to take your family to a play or performance.

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Our Members Say

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See all 8 member reviews

Most Recent Reviews

  1. Teen Reviewer Age 13
    Lives in Pennsylvania
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 4.0

    great show

    this is a really cool show!! i would recommend it to you if u like grease or even if u dont!!!! it is a great show and i would recommend it to anyone!!!

  2. Teen Reviewer Age 16
    Lives in Delaware
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 3.0

    it was a pretty good movie.

    i loved the songs.

  3. Adult Reviewer
    Lives in Texas
    I rate this title off for age 13 and give it 4.0

  4. Kid Reviewer Age 10
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 4.0

    Great Show!

    I love this show! I recomend it to every one! Watch this!!!

  5. Teen Reviewer Age 15
    Lives in Pennsylvania
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 5.0

    Best Reality Show Ever!!!

    I am a huge fan of Grease. I have seen the musical on stage six times and the movie too many times to count. When I heard about this, I couldn't wait! It didn't disappoint me. It has a similar concept to American Idol, but is completely different. Grease Academy worked the contestants hard and proved Broadway calls for more than just a singer. I really want Chad Doreck and Ashley Spencer to win. Chad is an amazing singer and dancer, and Ashley is great. This show is great for all ages who are fans of Grease. The judges are a lot nicer and more encouriging than American Idol and the contestants are great role moldels for kids because they never give up on their dreams.

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