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The Locator

(Rated TV-PG, Reality TV, Starring Troy Dunn, Where to watch: WE)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 11, age appropriate for kids over 14; suggested age 14.

  • Is it any good?

    4.0

  • Common Sense says

    Reality show mixes intense stories with teary reunions.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 14 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    In some episodes, participants' iffy past behavior has created huge problems in their lives. This is acknowledged and dealt with very clearly. For example, one woman's choice to run away from home as a teenager, experiment with drugs, and become a rock groupie is connected directly to the fact that she has become an abused single mom with no job and no way to support her daughter. Dunn only agrees to help her when he ascertains that she has overcome her addictions and is ready to begin rebuilding her life.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Occasionally, separations can be the result of violence, although this is depicted in a thoughtful and respectful manner.

  • Sex:

    Some participants' back stories include sexual elements. But they're never addressed or shown in a salacious way.

  • Language:

    Not an issue.

  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Substance use/abuse is something that has affected many of the show's participants during an earlier stage in their lives. The topics aren't shied away from but are handled in a responsible manner.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About The Locator

Parents need to know that although some of this reality show's participants have back stories that involve drugs, violence, and abuse, the series' overall theme is one of redemption, with participants recognizing the error of their ways and seeking forgiveness from friends and family. Their tales can be intense, but not too much questionable stuff is actually shown on screen.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about the messages this show sends. Are they all positive? Do you find the series at all voyeuristic? If you were getting ready to reunite with a long-lost loved one, would you want cameras there? Why or why not? Families can also discuss what the show teaches viewers about the significance of decisions made at young ages. What ramifications can these choices have? After watching this show, do you see any of the choices you've made in a different light?
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