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I Pity the Fool

(Rated TV-PG, Reality TV, Starring Mr. T, Where to watch: Nickelodeon, TV Land, Online)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 10, age appropriate for kids over 12; suggested age 12.
  • Is it any good?

    3.0
  • Common Sense says

    Mr. T teaches rules to fools. Older tweens and up.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 12 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Mr. T's goal is to teach strong positive values -- such as family unity, motivation, and good communication.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    References to punching and other violent acts as they pertain to Mr. T's action-hero personality. But there's no tolerance of violent behavior.
  • Sex:

    Not an issue.
  • Language:

    Fairly mild: "Crap," "bastard," etc.
  • Consumerism:

    Some of the locations Mr. T visits are commercial businesses, such as a Nissan car dealership.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Occasional adult consumption of alcohol and tobacco products.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About I Pity the Fool

Parents need to know that in this self-improvement reality series, '80s action star Mr. T helps real people who are struggling with family, work, and relationship problems -- many of which are rooted in laziness and failed communication. Parents also need to know that while the show doesn't present these issues in a way that's particularly controversial or extremely contentious, the subject matter isn't really geared toward younger viewers. That said, some kids may be drawn in by Mr. T's icon status, and the show is fine for older tweens and up.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about their own problems with family members, friends, or co-workers -- and ways to deal with these issues. Could any be improved through better communication? What are some other ways of resolving conflicts? Families can also talk about favorite action heroes. Even though they can "fix" the problems on television, are they really good sources of advice? Why do you think Mr. T was chosen to host this show?

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Our Members Say

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Most Recent Reviews

  1. Adult Reviewer
    Lives in Wyoming
    I rate this title on for age 11 and give it 5.0

    Great Motivation!

    "I Pity the Fool" is a great show for kids & adults! Great show to teach kids as well as adults to be & stay motivated!

  2. Teen Reviewer Age 14
    Lives in Arizona
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 5.0

    MR T

    I LOVE WATCHING MR.T NEW SERIES I LOVE THIS SHOW!

  3. Adult Reviewer
    Lives in California
    I rate this title on for age 11 and give it 5.0

    Made me feel good

    In this day and age there is a need for programing like this. No fancy degrees, No fluff, just the basic nuts and bolts that can be deleivered in an enteraining and firm way. Mr. T did a good job teaching everyone its about building relationships not your Bank account. Treat people like you want to be treated and the money will show up as a by product. Most young people don't understand this concepet because it has been forgotten by those who grew up on it and were supposed to pass it on. These simle things are what makes America GREAT!

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