See more TV reviews

My Antonio (VH1)

common sense media says

Italian heartthrob looks for love in iffy reality show.

parents & educators say
See 1 review | Review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this reality series -- in which 13 women try to win the heart of actor/model Antonio Sabato Jr. -- includes lots of catty behavior, sometimes instigated by Sabato Jr.'s own mother. There’s also plenty of drinking (cocktails, wine, champagne) and strong sexual innuendo, as well as flirty talk and discussions about failed relationships. Words like “hell” are audible, while curses like “s--t” and “f--k” are bleeped.

Positive messages: The series perpetuates sexist stereotypes about women and what they'll do to "get" a man. It also reflects a negative stereotype about meddlesome mothers.
Positive role models: Sabato Jr.’s mother schemes with some of the participants to eliminate other women from the competition. The women themselves aren't exactly stellar role models, as they're prone to fighting and other iffy behavior.
Violence: Some catty arguing among participants.
Sex: Some strong sexual innuendo, including references to “getting laid.” The women sport lots of low necklines and revealing bikinis. Sabato Jr. and other men often appear shirtless.
Language: Words like “hell” are audible, while curse words like “f--k” and “s--t” are bleeped.
Consumerism: The series is a promotional vehicle for Sabato Jr.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Participants frequently drink wine, cocktails, and champagne.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on My Antonio

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
  • Families can talk about whether it's really possible to find true love on a reality show. If not, why do you think people choose to participate in this kind of program?
  • How does the show portray women? Is that typical of similar reality shows? Are the contestants on any of these series intended to be role models?

What's the story?

What's the story?
In MY ANTONIO, Calvin Klein model/actor Antonio Sabato Jr. attempts to find love among 13 women chosen to live in a house in Hawaii and compete for his affections. The women face off in a series of challenges demonstrating their commitment to him; meanwhile, his mother, Yvonne Kabouchy, offers her frank opinions about which woman her son should be dating -- and who he should ask to leave. Adding to the drama is the appearance of Sabato Jr.’s ex-wife, Alicia Tully Jensen, who's convinced that they should try to rekindle their relationship.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

While the contestants on My Antonio aren’t as over-the-top as those on other similarly themed reality shows, there's still lots of strong sexual innuendo, drinking, and catty arguments. The latter is aggravated by Kabouchy, who seems to think nothing of manipulating her son’ dating choices.

Sabato Jr. is a polite and charming host, but that's not enough to disguise the fact that the series does little more than perpetuate sexist stereotypes about women and their supposed need for a man’s affection. Tully Jensen's appearance only reinforces this characterization. Bottom line? Like many others, this show’s approach to reality romance is less about love and more about creating drama.

TV themes & details

TV Details
TV Rating: TV-14
Network: VH1
Cast: Alicia Tully Jensen, Antonio Sabato Jr, Yvonne Kabouchy
Genre: Reality TV
Where to watch: VH1
This review was written by Melissa Camacho
 
 

Review It

 

Review My Antonio

Hang on! You need to be a member to post your review.
A safe community is important to us. Please observe our guidelines.
 

Most useful reviews by all members

KatherineLovesJake
teen, 14 years old
10
 
love love love love it!
LOVE IT! go brooke!
Flag as inappropriate 
was this review useful?
helped me decide (1) | had useful details (2) | read my mind (3)

More reviews ...

An independent voice for families
Age-appropriate reviews
Advice on the big issues
 

vote now

Will you see My Antonio?

Won't miss it
We'll try
Change it

Already seen it? What do you think?

I recommend it
It's a pass
 

Great alternatives handpicked by our editors

Better dating shows
For kids who love romance
Browse more TV
About our rating system
ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age
Our child development rating guidelines