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The Cougar

(Rated TV-14, Reality TV, Starring Vivica A. Fox, Stacey Anderson, Where to watch: TV Land)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 14, age appropriate for kids over 18; suggested age 15.

  • Is it any good?

    2.0

  • Common Sense says

    Dating show claims to fight stereotypes but is just sexist.

Themes in this show include:   dating/crushes, gender issues

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 15–18

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    The show claims to challenge cultural ideas about older women and younger men but actually succeeds in perpetuating stereotypes about age and gender. The show's very title is a reference to a stereotypical type of older woman "on the prowl."

  • Role models:

    Stacey's behavior doesn't really challenge stereotypes about what a "cougar" is. Many of the men engage in sexist behavior (catcalling, whistling) and make sexist remarks ... that are intended to be flattering. On the plus side, the contestants are from a variety of ethnic, social, and educational backgrounds.

  • Violence:

    Competitive behavior between contestants leads to some petty arguments, as well as some minor pushing and shoving.

  • Sex:

    Lots of strong sexual innuendo. During elimination rounds, the "cougar" must kiss all continuing contestants on the lips. Some contestants are shown touching her on the legs or thighs or trying to kiss her. Others are shown stripping down to their underwear or taking off their shirts as they climb onto beds with her (though no graphic nudity is shown).

  • Language:

    Some strong language, ranging from insults like "idiot" and "chump" to bleeped curse words like "f--k," "s--t," "ass," and "douchebag."

  • Consumerism:

    Popular music is occasionally heard in the background, like Duran Duran's "Notorious."

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    The of-age cast is often seen drinking wine, cocktails, beer, champagne, and shots. References are made about contestants being "drunk."
 

What Parents Need to Know

About The Cougar

Parents need to know that despite claiming to challenge stereotypes about women, this reality dating series -- in which a woman in her forties tries to find love among a group of men in their twenties -- is full of sexist behavior (catcalls, howls, and more) and strong sexual innuendo. There's also lots of drinking (everything from beer to shots), and salty language (though the worst is bleeped). The "cougar" must kiss contestants during elimination rounds, and she also takes bubble baths and climbs onto a bed with some (though the guys strip off their shirts, no sensitive parts are shown).

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about how shows like this influence teens' perception of gender roles and sexuality. What messages is the show sending viewers?
  • How can the media both challenge and perpetuate "double standards" when it comes to men and women? Do you think the idea of younger men dating older women has become more acceptable in recent years?
  • Do you think it's really possible to find a "soul mate" on reality shows? Or is it all just about entertainment value?
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Most Recent Reviews

  1. Parent Reviewer
    julianrcs
    Lives in California
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 1.0

    This review...

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

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