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Oprah's Big Give

(Rated TV-PG, Reality TV, Starring Oprah Winfrey, Jamie Oliver, Malaak Compton-Rock, Where to watch: ABC)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 6, age appropriate for kids over 8; suggested age 8.

  • Is it any good?

    4.0

  • Common Sense says

    Charity-minded series puts heart in reality TV.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 8 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    The show promotes charitable work and demonstrates how rewarding it can be to help someone in need. Some personal stories of financial and emotional struggles (dealing with the loss of a spouse or enduring war injuries, for example) may affect sensitive viewers. Competitors are eliminated weekly for failing to impress the judges with their fundraising efforts, contestants occasionally put down their peers' work, and, as deadlines loom, tensions can rise among teammates.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence & scariness:

    Some participants have encountered violence (physical/sexual abuse, gun violence, war injuries, and the like) and give general details of their experiences.

  • Sexy stuff:

    Not an issue.

  • Language:

    Not an issue.

  • Consumerism:

    Corporate donors like Target, Chase Bank, and United Airlines get screen time for their contributions.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Oprah's Big Give

Parents need to know that the participants in this reality series compete to improve others' lives with no knowledge of any personal monetary gain. That positive message of giving makes this show a family-friendly choice as reality shows go, but kids may need further explanation about the judging and elimination process and why contestants are sent home after working so hard for charity. Some of the needy folks' stories -- which are full of hardship and challenge -- may affect sensitive viewers. Don't be surprised to see a fair number of corporate donors' logos pop up, either.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about how series like this one can inspire change. Are they as much fun to watch as other, more competitive reality shows? Why or why not? Were you touched by the stories you heard from the charity recipients? Did they make you take a look at your own situation and see what you can do to help others? What are the benefits of giving back?
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Most Recent Reviews

  1. Kid Reviewer Age 12
    natalieas
    Lives in Texas
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 5.0

    A great Influence!

    This is such a good show, because instead of being greedy to win themselves money, contestants compete to "out give" each other. I is such a good influence for children (and even adults) :)

    This review...

    Helped me decide | Had useful details | Read my mind
    Flag as inappropriate

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