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I Pity the Fool (Nickelodeon, TV Land)

common sense media says

Mr. T teaches rules to fools. Older tweens and up.

parents & educators say
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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that in this self-improvement reality series, '80s action star Mr. T helps real people who are struggling with family, work, and relationship problems -- many of which are rooted in laziness and failed communication. Parents also need to know that while the show doesn't present these issues in a way that's particularly controversial or extremely contentious, the subject matter isn't really geared toward younger viewers. That said, some kids may be drawn in by Mr. T's icon status, and the show is fine for older tweens and up.

Positive messages: Mr. T's goal is to teach strong positive values -- such as family unity, motivation, and good communication.
Violence: References to punching and other violent acts as they pertain to Mr. T's action-hero personality. But there's no tolerance of violent behavior.
Sex: Not applicable.
Language: Fairly mild: "Crap," "bastard," etc.
Consumerism: Some of the locations Mr. T visits are commercial businesses, such as a Nissan car dealership.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Occasional adult consumption of alcohol and tobacco products.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on I Pity the Fool

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about their own problems with family members, friends, or co-workers -- and ways to deal with these issues. Could any be improved through better communication? What are some other ways of resolving conflicts? Families can also talk about favorite action heroes. Even though they can "fix" the problems on television, are they really good sources of advice? Why do you think Mr. T was chosen to host this show?

What's the story?

What's the story?
I PITY THE FOOL is an amusing reality show that reminds viewers that positive attitudes, family unity, good communication, and a strong work ethic still go a long way in making the world a better place. The series stars Mr. T, who's best known for his role as tough-talking, gold-chains-wearing B.A. Baracus on the classic 1980s action series The A-Team. Fifteen years later, his mission is simple: Help people change their foolish behavior in order to live better lives. Now older and wiser (and quite devout as well), Mr. T makes it clear that he's not a therapist, but he does his best to resolve the many conflicts that arise between families, friends, co-workers, and clients. Whether it's enriching the work ethic at a car dealership or improving the deteriorating relationship between a father and his family, Mr. T is ready to offer assistance and dispense his unique brand of advice.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

The downside of this show is that it tends to oversimplify the subjects' problems and their solutions, and Mr. T's trademark "jibber jabber" (fast-talking slang) is dated. But both the show and its host/narrator offer some amusing moments. More importantly, the values this show promotes are both positive and sensible; it's nice to see someone (even Mr. T) holding people accountable for their off-putting behavior.

TV themes & details

TV Details
TV Rating: TV-PG
Network: Nickelodeon
Cast: Mr. T
Genre: Reality TV
Where to watch: Nickelodeon
This review was written by Melissa Camacho
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

martin
teen, 16 years old
 
MR T
I LOVE WATCHING MR.T NEW SERIES I LOVE THIS SHOW!
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was this review useful?
helped me decide (4) | had useful details (2) | read my mind (2)
indivigil
adult
 
Made me feel good
In this day and age there is a need for programing like this. No fancy degrees, No fluff, just the basic nuts and bolts that can be deleivered in an enteraining and firm way. Mr. T did a good job teaching everyone its about building relationships not your Bank account. Treat people like you want to be treated and the money will show up as a by product. Most young people don't understand this concepet because it has been forgotten by those who grew up on it and were supposed to pass it on. These simle things are what makes America GREAT!
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was this review useful?
helped me decide (2) | had useful details (4) | read my mind (2)
SteelerFan30
adult
 
Great Motivation!
"I Pity the Fool" is a great show for kids & adults! Great show to teach kids as well as adults to be & stay motivated!
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was this review useful?
helped me decide (3) | had useful details (2) | read my mind (2)

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ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
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