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Nashville Star

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 7, age appropriate for kids over 10; suggested age 10.

  • Is it any good?

    3.0
  • Common Sense says

    American Idol goes country.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 10 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Not an issue.

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Not an issue.
  • Sex:

    Lots of cleavage and songs about relationships. Some skimpy outfits.
  • Language:

    Dialogue with judges can touch on how "hot" one looks.
  • Consumerism:

    Mention of record labels and other sponsors.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.

What Parents Need to Know

This review of Nashville Star was written by Pam Gelman

Parents need to know that since this show is geared for the young country crowd, outfits are skimpy, songs are usually about relationships, and conversations with judges frequently begin with "Darlin', you look hot." The producers of the series still seem to be looking for their own unique place in the reality TV genre. The show's format and hosts seem to change each season, settling on something very similar to American Idol.

Families Can Talk About

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  • Families can talk about the competitors' hard work, patience, and persistence. How do they make it look so easy, considering all the practice and physical, mental, and emotional challenges that go into each performance? Also, families can talk about all the attributes that make a good performance -- song, presence, personality. Would your kids ever want to try a competition like this? Why or why not?
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More on Nashville Star

What’s the Story?

NASHVILLE STAR pits 10 country singing hopefuls against each other over the course of an eight-week competition, with the champion winning a record deal with RCA. Featuring live music from country superstars and a very participatory live audience, this series still hasn't garnered the same following as American Idol, despite the fact that producers have crafted a show very similar to its pop rival. Co-hosted by Wynonna Judd and Cowboy Troy. Regular judges include singer/songwriter Phil Vassar and industry player Anastasia Brown. The third seat is reserved for a rotating panel of guest judges, including Big & Rich, Gretchen Wilson, Hank Williams, Jr., and comedian Larry the Cable Guy.

Is It Any Good?

One difference in Nashville Star's favor is that it shows very little of the audition process (which can get mean-spirited on American Idol), instead focusing on the music. Viewers will see the process of song selection and the contestants' practice, struggles, and triumphs that lead up to the weekly performance and elimination. Judd is an industry veteran who provides many comforting words of wisdom to contestants. Cowboy Troy is a refreshing change from the typical country western star, with his unique brand of cowboy rap.

Clearly, the judges know the business, but their tips and advice tend to be vague and repetitive. Nashville Star is potentially okay for kids genuinely interested in country-western music or in performing, but parents need to be prepared to see skimpy outfits and listen to comments about sex appeal. Perhaps a better means to learn about this music is to dust off a Johnny Cash album.

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Our Members Say

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Most Recent Reviews

  1. Teen Reviewer Age 14
    Lives in Florida
    I rate this title on for age 5 and give it 3.0

    cool

    5/5

  2. I rate this title on for age 0 and give it 3.0

    An Average Yet Fun Show for the Family...

    My brother is a Billy Ray Cyrus fan, so I learned about this show through him. I caught one on cable an episode one night while on vacation, and I thought the music was good and was pleased by the clean, family-friendly tone of the show. The only reason for the TV-PG rating would be for some NBC commercials (Law & Order; Fear Itself; etc...keep that remote handy!) A fun family show for a TV night. (Go Melissa!) Recommended.

  3. Adult Reviewer
    Lives in Texas
    I rate this title off for age 0 and give it 0.0

  4. Adult Reviewer
    Lives in Arizona
    I rate this title on for age 0 and give it 4.0

  5. Teen Reviewer Age 13
    Lives in Michigan
    I rate this title pause for age 0 and give it 4.0

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