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Man and Wife (MTV)

common sense media says

Sex "edutainment" show is for mature audiences.

parents & educators say
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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this sex information show -- which started as a popular online series -- is intended for mature audiences. It's full of strong sexual innuendo and discussions about various sexual behaviors, which often include crude/strong language ("ass," "dong," "nuts," "damn"; stronger words, like "f--k" and "p---y," are bleeped) and iffy behavior. It's not the most educational of shows (the hosts aren't therapists and don't offer professional advice), but it does encourage safe sex and welcomes people from all racial/ethnic communities and sexual orientations to participate.

Positive messages: The hosts offer advice about sex and relationships, but in a way that's more entertaining and titillating than educational (neither is a professional therapist). They make a point of the fact that the show is open to all races/ethnicities and sexual orientations.
Violence: Audience members make occasional references to violence; the couple notes that this behavior isn't acceptable.
Sex: Nearly constant sexual innuendo and discussion, including references to various sexual activities and suggestive movements. Crude, sex-related language includes phrases like "adjust my nuts" and conversations about genital size, etc. Words like "dong," "cootchie," and stronger terms are used to describe genitals and sex acts. Scoop wears boxer shorts; the couple sits in bed while hosting the show.
Language: Lots of strong language; words like "ass" and "damn" and are frequently heard, while stronger choices ("f--k," "s--t," "p---y") are bleeped.
Consumerism: Apple computers are visible in the webisode segments featured on the show. Musicians like Chris Brown occasionally also appear in these segments. References to music by various artists, including Barry Manilow, The Bee Gees, and Bon Jovi.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: References to alcohol and discussions about Viagra.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Man and Wife

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about whether television is an appropriate forum to get (or offer) sexual advice. Why or why not? When does a TV show discussing sexual issues cross the line from being informative to just entertainment? Families can also discuss what happens when shows that start out online make the move to television. What kinds of changes do Web shows have to undergo in order to be "TV ready"? Why do you think some shows get moved from one medium to another?

What's the story?

What's the story?
MAN AND WIFE -- which started its life as a popular Web/podcast series -- is a sex information show hosted by rap music promoter Isaac "Fat Man Scoop" Freeman and his wife, Shanda. Though they're not professional therapists, the couple dispenses advice about sex and relationships based on their own personal experiences. Sitting in bed armed with laptop computers, they answer questions submitted via email, voice mail, and by their studio audience. Excerpts from their interactive Web series are also aired throughout each episode.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
Overall, the series is designed to entertain rather than educate, with Scoop and Shanda offering their unique perspectives on issues ranging from improving various sexual practices to choosing the correct "accessory." While Shanda approaches most questions within the context of love and relationships, Scoop revels in his ability to swear (though most words are fully bleeped) and offer crude commentary about sex acts, genitals, and other topics. Meanwhile, online and studio audiences ask questions that are often intended to titillate or even impress those who are tuning in.

In between the tasteless bits are the more positive moments. Scoop and Shanda clearly state that their personal rules include respecting yourself and your partner and practicing safe sex. They talk about the necessity for communication and compromise to maintain a relationship, and they openly invite people from all racial/ethnic backgrounds and sexualities to participate in their dialogue. Bottom line? Adults who like this sort of thing may find it entertaining or marginally informative, but the series isn't appropriate for kids.

TV themes & details

TV Details
TV Rating: TV-14
Network: MTV
Cast: Fat Man Scoop, Shanda Freeman
Genre: Reality TV
Where to watch: MTV
This review was written by Melissa Camacho
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

Always_Sexz
parent of and 3 , 7 , 21 , 23 , 25 , 27 year old
17
 
Man And Wife
Awesome show ! Everyone from 18 to 99 plus should watch this show. They have great advice. My adult children watch it and then a few days later they call and we talk about what was said on the show. Opens great communication not just for couple but for children that are confused and feel comfortable enough to talk with their parents. As a parent I record Man and Wife on my TiVo so my husband and I don't miss it. We love the show. Makes us laugh and you know what even though we have been married for several years we have even learned a thing or two about communication. Great show ! Hope they do not cut it off! Love Ya Scoop and Shanda !
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veryconcerned
parent of 18 year old
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Lego Man
teen, 14 years old
17
 
BAD
ALL I CAN SAY IS BAD BAD BAD!!!!!!!!!!!
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