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Gone Too Far

(Rated TV-14, Reality TV, Starring Adam Goldstein, Where to watch: MTV, Online)
  • 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 14.
  • Is it any good?

    3.0
  • Common Sense says

    Reality addiction show is both earnest and exploitative.

Themes in this show include:   substance abuse

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 14–18

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Despite its often-rough content, the series sends a clear anti-drug message. The recovery process is clearly portrayed as difficult and -- thanks to Goldstein’s death -- sometimes tragically unsuccessful. The show also highlights how important family and friends are when it comes to making difficult choices to assist addicts in the recovery process.
  • Role models:

    Goldstein consistently claims that while he can’t cure addiction, he can offer addicts a path toward recovery -- and he does. He's also non-judgmental when speaking to addicts and their families. Unfortunately, Goldstein's efforts in the show are overshadowed by his own fatal drug overdose in real life.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Addicts often talk about how they steal and engage in other inappropriate behavior in order to finance their habit. Some yell and argue when faced with going into rehab.
  • Sex:

    There's always the potential for discussions about inappropriate sexual activity, prostitution, and other behavior that can become part of a drug addict's lifestyle.
  • Language:

    Words like “pissed” and “hell" are audible; those like “s--t” and “f--k” are bleeped.
  • Consumerism:

    Goldstein gives addicts Apple iPods and other gifts to help them deal a bit better with the recovery process.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Very graphic footage of drug use, ranging from swallowing and inhaling narcotics to injecting heroin with needles (bloody needle marks visible). One addict is shown shooting up while driving. Addicts are shown in pain and being given pills while medically detoxing. Alcohol consumption is also visible.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Gone Too Far

Parents need to know that this series -- which follows Adam "DJ AM" Goldstein as he attempts to help drug addicts turn toward recovery -- is haunted by the reality of Goldstein's August 2009 death from a drug overdose. Because of that, the show sometimes seems a little exploitative, but it firmly underscores how long and difficult recovering from drug addiction really is. It also sends the message that people, despite their own battles with addiction, can successfully reach out and help others. Expect very graphic images of people smoking and injecting drugs, as well as some strong language (words like “s--t” and "f--k" are bleeped).

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about whether shows that focus on people’s struggles with addiction and recovery are really intended to help people. Or do you think it's more a voyeuristic kind of entertainment?
  • How do the circumstances of Goldstein’s death affect your opinion of the show? Do you think the series helps people learn more about addiction and recovery, or is it exploiting someone’s death for entertainment?
  • What’s the best way to talk to kids (and adults) about drugs and the dangers of addiction? Where can people who are struggling with addiction go for help in your community? Parents: Check out our advice on some of these topics.

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Most Recent Reviews

  1. Teen Reviewer Age 15
    Lives in Minnesota
    I rate this title on for age 12 and give it 5.0
    My concerns are:
    • Drinking, smoking, or drug use
    • Negative role models

    Great show

    I love this show! I think that teens should watch this show because it shows you what happens to drug users! Also I am very sad that DJ AM had to go because he was such a good guy!

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