Parents need to know that, although this reality series spin-off will likely appeal to high school-aged fans of The Hills, it's hardly a great choice for teens. Sure, your kids won't technically hear the F-bomb because it's bleeped out, but they'll hear plenty of bleeping -- and they'll definitely know what's being said. It's also true that they won't see any underage drinking, but if they look up to the over-21 guys on the show, they'll be exposed to plenty of iffy behavior that you wouldn't want them to emulate. A few brand-names are promoted, too, and girls (who are often referred to as "hot chicks") are sometimes objectified. In short, if you're looking for a show that will expose your kids to positive role models ... keep looking.
Positive messages:Brody's pool of potential BFFs is diverse and includes one openly gay friend who refers to himself as "the token gay guy" -- although it doesn't take long for him to realize that Brody's lifestyle is all about the ladies. A few of the other guys vying for the top spot seem genuine, but since they're willing to compete in over-the-top challenges involving fraternity-style pranks, scantily clad "hot chicks," and alcohol, their suitability as role models is debatable at best.
Violence:Some of the guys' antics (like surf-boarding down a flight of stairs) are dangerous.
Sex:Lots of body-part references and euphemisms (i.e. "morning wood" and "johnson") and some partial nudity (including exposed buttocks and a scene in which one guy is completely naked -- although he's blacked-out below the belt). One challenge involves a "lingerie party" featuring girls dancing, stripper-style, in bras and panties.
Language:"F--k" is used a lot, but it's bleeped (in at least one instance, a guy curses so much that 80 percent of his sentence is bleeped out). Audible curse words include "bitch," "hell," and "ass." The guys also sling around terms like "douche bag," "p---y," and "bromosexual."
Consumerism:The show is less label-conscious than you might think, but the winner does get a penthouse apartment that's been fully furnished by the West Elm company. Another challenge is sponsored by Frederick's of Hollywood.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:Some guys smoke cigarettes, and most episodes involve lots of drinking (including downing shots of hard liquor), although everyone is of legal age. Still, Brody draws the line when a wannabe friend gets too drunk in public and embarrasses the group.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.
connielove93 educator and parent of 5 and 10 year old
14
This show is FUNNEH but is not appropriate for younger kids. But I don't think it's so bad that it should be rated "off". Family Guy is rated "iffy" and has similar content.