Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Slightly edgier than original Reba, with similar themes.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
What's the Story?
The comedy series MALIBU COUNTRY stars Reba McEntire as Reba Gallagher, a former singer/songwriter who moves to Malibu, California after divorcing her unfaithful country superstar husband. Now a single mom, she attempts to restart the career she originally abandoned to support her former husband. But leaving Nashville with her mom Lillie Mae (Lily Tomlin), and teenage kids Cash (Justin Prentice) and June (Juliette Angelo) to set up a new life is challenging, especially when trying to adapt to the ways of the more liberal-minded folks around them, including next door neighbor Kim (Sara Rue) and her stepson, Sage (Hudson Thames). Navigating the cutthroat music industry is tough, too, particularly when she has to deal with obnoxious music producer assistants like Geoffrey (played by Jai Rodriguez). But Reba's determined to find her country music voice in California, one song at a time.
Is It Any Good?
The show features all the typical elements of a traditional TV sitcom, including a wacky grandmother, a colorful next-door-neighbor, and lighthearted conversations about potentially serious issues. But the female characters portrayed here are appealing, and their antics occasionally lead to a chuckle.
McEntire fans will find the countrified "fish-out-of-water" story entertaining enough, while others will appreciate the actress' tradition of playing a strong woman working hard to survive without the help of a man. But the overall show is geared towards viewers mature enough to handle some of its themes.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what it is like to move far away from your home. What are some of the positive things that can come of it? What can make this transition easier? Do you think TV comedies like this one offer a realistic portrayal of what the experience is like?
Should behaviors like drinking and using drugs ever be a source of humor and/or entertainment? Why or why not?
TV Details
- Premiere date : November 2, 2012
- Cast : Lily Tomlin , Reba McEntire , Sara Rue
- Network : ABC
- Genre : Comedy
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 21, 2019
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