Magnum, P.I. - TV-PG

1980s heartthrob solves cases in Hawaii.

TV Rating: TV-PG Network: Syndicated Cast: Tom Selleck, John Hillerman, Roger E. Mosley Genre: Drama
Available on: DVD

Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that this hit 1980s crime drama -- which has a healthy dose of humor, too -- is full of tropical beaches, beautiful women, and lots of sexual innuendo (not to mention Tom Selleck in short shorts). But most of the racier stuff will probably go over kids' head. There's some violence, including the use of guns, but it's mild by today's standards, and blood is rarely seen. Some episodes are heavier than others, but overall it's a lighthearted throwback that still entertains.

Families can talk about the staying power of TV icons like Magnum. Which other characters have stood the test of time? Who are some of today's popular media icons? What do they represent? What will people say about them 20 years from now? Families can also talk about how Magnum's Vietnam veteran status affected both his character and the show.

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Common Sense Review

Reviewed By: Melissa Camacho

With its combination of drama, humor, action, and sex appeal, is it any wonder that MAGNUM P.I. was a mega hit in the '80s? Starring Tom Selleck as Thomas Magnum -- a Vietnam veteran/former naval intelligence turned private investigator -- Magnum ran for eight seasons on CBS and still airs in syndication (it's also available on DVD).

Hired as a security consultant for unseen British writer Robin Masters (voiced by Orson Welles) in exchange for room and board, Magnum builds his private investigation practice from the guesthouse on Masters' beachfront Hawaiian estate.

Living in "Robin's Nest" has its benefits, including a stocked wine cellar, high-end electronics, and the unlimited use of a bright red 308 GTS Ferrari. Unfortunately, Magnum's luxurious lifestyle is cramped by the nagging presence of the estate's custodian, the rather priggish ex-British Army Sergeant Major Jonathan Higgins (John Hillerman) and his two well-trained Dobermans.

Over the years, the show's storylines -- which are narrated by Magnum himself -- deal with everything from cheating spouses to chasing a mysterious sumo wrestler. With the help of his Vietnam buddies, particularly helicopter pilot T.C. Calvin (Roger E. Mosley) and slightly shady beach club manager Rick Wright (Larry Mannetti), Magnum usually manages to solve each case, no matter how odd. (And, naturally, success often comes hand in hand with securing the affections of a former female client or victim...)

The Hawaiian setting -- combined with Magnum's tight-jeans, short shorts, and unbuttoned Hawaiian shirts -- makes for an ideal tropical fantasy that plays up the private eye's sex appeal. The splashy series also reflects the longing for economic excess that characterized the '80s. But Magnum's biggest contribution may very well have been its willingness to openly examine some of the troubling long-term issues that Vietnam veterans faced as they transitioned back into civilian life after the war.

Fans might also enjoy fellow classic series like Hawaii Five-O, Fantasy Island, and The A-Team.

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Content		CS	adults	kids
Content
Sexual Content Definitely some flirting and sexual innuendo, but much will go over younger viewers' head. Magnum's wardrobe includes tight blue jeans, short shorts, and tank tops (Selleck was a big sex symbol when the show originally aired). He's sometimes seen wearing only boxer shorts. Women in bikinis are consistently visible.
Violence Frequent punching and physical fighting, often leading to black eyes and broken limbs. Guns are frequently seen and fired, but blood is rarely visible. Magnum only uses a gun as a last resort. Some deaths, but not graphic (especially compared to today's shows).
Language Later episodes sometimes include the word "damn," but it's rare.
Message
	Social Behavior Magnum genuinely wants to help people and has a close friendship with his Vietnam buddies. While Higgins and Magnum argue, it's clear that they respect each other. Some of the issues raised as part of Magnum's investigations include adultery and post traumatic stress disorder. People of Polynesian and other diverse Asian racial/ethnic backgrounds are visible; T.C. is African-American.
	Commercialism The show prominently features a GT 380 Ferrari and highlights some Hawaiian attractions.
	Drug/Alcohol/Tobacco Adults frequently drink wine, beer, and hard alcohol (Magnum is often seen with a beer bottle in hand). Visible cigarette and cigar smoking. Occasional references to drugs and drug smuggling (generally related to investigations).