I Pity the Fool - TV-PG

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

TV Rating: TV-PG Network: Nickelodeon, TV Land Cast: Mr. T Genre: Reality TV
Available on: Download

Common Sense Note

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.

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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Common Sense Review

Reviewed By: Melissa Camacho

I PITY THE FOOL is an amusing reality show that reminds viewers that positive attitudes, family unity, good communication, and a strong work ethic still go a long way in making the world a better place.

The series stars Mr. T, who's best known from his role as tough-talking, gold chains-wearing B.A. Baracus on the classic 1980s action series The A-Team. Fifteen years later, his mission is simple: Help people change their foolish behavior in order to live better lives.

Now older and wiser (and quite devout as well), Mr. T makes clear that he's not a therapist, but he does his best to resolve the many conflicts that arise between families, friends, co-workers, and clients.

While the problems featured on I Pity the Fool aren't as life threatening as the ones Mr. T faced as a young action hero, they're certainly both challenging and genuine. Whether it's enriching the work ethic at a car dealership or improving the deteriorating relationship between a father and his family, Mr. T is ready to offer assistance and dispense his unique brand of advice.

The downside? The show tends to oversimplify the subjects' problems and their solutions, and Mr. T's trademark "jibber jabber" (fast-talking slang) is dated. But both the show and its host/narrator offer some amusing moments. More importantly, the values this show promotes are both positive and sensible; it's nice to see someone (even Mr. T) holding people accountable for their off-putting behavior.

Fans may also enjoy classic episodes of The A-Team (available on DVD and for download) and reality shows like Hogan Knows Best and Shalom in the Home.

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Content		CS	adults	kids
Content
Sexual Content
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.
Language Fairly mild: "Crap," "bastard," etc.
Message
	Social Behavior Mr. T's goal is to teach strong positive values -- such as family unity, motivation, and good communication.
	Commercialism Some of the locations Mr. T visits are commercial businesses, such as a Nissan car dealership.
	Drug/Alcohol/Tobacco Occasional adult consumption of alcohol and tobacco products.