 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Billy the Exterminator
- A&E
- Genre: Reality TV
Common Sense Media says
Pest-control reality show is surprisingly animal friendly.
Parents say
Kids say
QUALITY
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that atlhough the family at the center of this reality series about a Louisiana pest control business has a Goth-like persona (the company logo is a skull and crossbones), the show is fairly mild -- and animal friendly -- overall. That said, the series does include some family drama, which leads to a few catty arguments and occasional "bleeped out" swearing (like "s--t"). Food and tool product logos are sometimes visible, and some of the pests being removed (which range from cockroaches to alligators) resist rather violently.
What's the story?
BILLY THE EXTERMINATOR follows former U.S. Air Force Sergeant Billy Bretherton and other members of the Bretherton-owned Vexcon Company as they help people with their pest-control problems. Viewers watch as Billy, sometimes assisted by his brother Rick and other employees, employs both standard techniques and non-traditional methods to remove vicious raccoons from petting zoos, buzzing bee hives from inside walls, mice-eating snakes from abandoned homes, and renegade alligators from suburban streets. Unlike other exterminators, the animal-loving Billy and his family go the extra mile, attempting to rescue as many animals as possible and relocating them to more eco-friendly locations. Meanwhile, Billy's home life has its own share of drama as his family -- including wife Mary, dad "Big Bill," and spirited mom Donnie -- come to terms with the reappearance of Rick's ex-wife, Pat, and her efforts to play a role in the business.
Is it any good?
Despite Vexcon's skull and crossbones logo and some of the family's dark Gothic attire, BIlly the Exterminator is surprisingly gentle. Billy seems to love his work, and his love for animals is apparent with every job he does. He also offers interesting bits of information about specific animals' role in the ecosystem. There are funny moments, too, particularly when Billy employs his own special methods -- including wearing black leather outfits with scary masks and feather boas -- to keep from being bitten and/or stung by the animals he's working with.
While watching Billy and his crew work with wild animals ends up being fairly kid-safe entertainment overall, the show's focus on the tense relationship between Rick's ex-wife and the rest of the family creates some uncomfortable (and arguably unnecessary voyeuristic) scenes. Donnie's outspoken ways also lead to some catty moments, and family discussions sometimes get a bit heated. But if you can overlook that side of things, this series actually offers some lighthearted, informative entertainment for those who enjoy watching people doing jobs that they probably wouldn't want to do themselves.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about the way that people who work in fields that many viewers wouldn't be comfortable with are portrayed in the media. What makes them interesting subject matter for reality television?
Do you think shows like this are meant to help viewers appreciate the work and risks that go into "unusual" jobs? Or are they primarily intended to just entertain?
How do people get started in these careers? What kinds of skills (and personality) does someone need to be able to do pest control work?
- Show:
- All members
- Parents
- Teens & kids
AGE
Billy is perfect for everybody
I believe Billy The Exterminator is alright for anybody over the age of 6. There is mild cursing that can range from d**n to some of the worst s**t, but severe cursing is bleeped out. Billy's wife does show some cleavage, but nothing too revealing. The only major concerns for this show is that they do sometimes have to kill live animals like crocodiles and huge boars. But other than that, this show is perfect for any child above the age of 6.
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Kid, 12 years old
March 19, 2011
AGE
GREAT SHOW
I love this show!!
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AGE
Nice show :)
It's wonder! You learn a lot about pests and animals, and it can be very funny. :)
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AGE
Great laughs and information!
Love it for humor and valuable information!
I adore this show and Billy is an amazing guy. He is thoughtful and very concerned about all of his clients. He could give anyone who is in business a model of professionalism. His clothes don't make the man: he clearly does. Lots of chuckles and laughs and I hope this stays around a long time!
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| Topics: | wild animals |
| TV rating: | TV-PG |
| Network: | A&E |
| Cast: | Billy Bretherton, Donnie Bretherton, Rick Bretherton |
| Genre: | Reality TV |
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