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Magnum, P.I.

(Rated TV-PG, Drama, Starring Tom Selleck, John Hillerman, Roger E. Mosley, Where to watch: Syndicated, DVD)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 9, age appropriate for kids over 11; suggested age 11.
  • Is it any good?

    4.0
  • Common Sense says

    1980s heartthrob solves cases in Hawaii.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 11 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    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.
 

What to watch out for

  • 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).
  • Sex:

    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.
  • Language:

    Later episodes sometimes include the word "damn," but it's rare.
  • Consumerism:

    The show prominently features a GT 380 Ferrari and highlights some Hawaiian attractions.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    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).
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Magnum, P.I.

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.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • 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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