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Behind the Music

(Rated TV-PG, Reality TV, Starring Jim Forbes, Where to watch: VH1)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 12, age appropriate for kids over 16; suggested age 13.

  • Is it any good?

    3.0

  • Common Sense says

    Guilty pleasure for adults and mature teens.

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 13–16

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    Behavior ranges from noble to criminal, depending on the subject. Sometimes celebrities brag about sexual behavior or drug/alcohol use, though the tone of the show is generally moralistic.

  • Violence:

    Guns, violent death, and physical abuse could be shown or discussed in documentary format.

  • Sex:

    Sexually suggestive behavior, barely clothed bodies, and sexual language are common.

  • Language:

    Plenty of foul language in some episodes, though stronger words are bleeped.

  • Consumerism:

    Other than the celebrities themselves, products aren't actively marketed.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Depends. Some profiles show drinking and smoking and discuss substance abuse and excessive use.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Behind the Music

Parents need to know that this documentary series focuses on the ups and downs of musical careers, and the downs can involve everything from depression to heroin addiction. Sexually suggestive images and adult language are common, but racy content depends largely on the person or group being profiled. While often informative, the show dwells on scandal and difficulty.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about the phenomenon of celebrity and our culture's obsession with famous people. Why do we find the personal details of their lives so fascinating? Why are we so interested in their stories of adversity? Does anything you learn from the show change your feelings about the person or group being profiled? Does the downside of being famous outweigh the positive aspects?
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