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P. Diddy's Starmaker

(Rated TV-PG, Reality TV, Starring Sean `Diddy` Combs, Lauriann Gibson, Where to watch: MTV, Online)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 12, age appropriate for kids over 15; suggested age 13.
  • Is it any good?

    3.0
  • Common Sense says

    Aspiring singers compete for big break; some iffy stuff.

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 13–15

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    There’s lots of focus on becoming famous and developing talent into something marketable. But a love for music is also discussed.
  • Role models:

    Diddy and his professional team aren’t always the most eloquent (sometimes they're painfully honest), but they're clearly trying to help the aspiring singers develop their talent and their star potential in their own way. The contestants come from all walks of life (and some have the difficult life stories to show for it) and sing in a variety of styles/genres.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Occasional arguments between participants.
  • Sex:

    Contestants' movements and gyrations are often somewhat suggestive.
  • Language:

    Diddy doesn’t always use clean language, but words like “f--k” and “s--t” are fully bleeped. 
  • Consumerism:

    Combs’ record label, Bad Boy Records, is mentioned frequently. His other brands and collections are also visible.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    None shown during the competition/performance segments, but there's always the chance contestants could partake at home.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About P. Diddy's Starmaker

Parents need to know that this reality series -- in which singers compete for the chance to be signed to Sean "P. Diddy" Combs' record label -- features lots of entertaining musical performances ... as well as some arguing, sexually charged dancing, and strong language (though the strongest words are bleeped). There are also plenty of references to Combs’ music, companies, and products. Some of the contestants have difficult life stories that may be distressing to sensitive viewers (for example, one has a daughter with leukemia, while another turned to music after his father died). Given that and some of the behind-the-scenes content, this one's best left for teens.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about what it takes to become a music star. What kind of talent and/or training does someone have to have to make it in this competitive industry?
  • Are singers who win reality music competitions guaranteed a successful career? Why or why not? Can you think of any success stories from other shows?
  • How can music help people when they're facing hard times? Do you think music can help people heal?

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Most Recent Reviews

  1. I rate this title on for age 15 and give it 5.0
    • My highlights are:
    • Good role models

    MONET DEALS WITH THE BULLIES OF THE SHOW!!

    MONET is 18 on the show and she is bullied by the other girl contestants. MONET so far shows class and doesn't get mad or rude like the others. That shows kid's that even though you are bullied you can still be on top and make it! I love this girl MONET. Next week they just put her down all the time. LIZ even says MONET will look stupid in an outfit!!! Shows the class LIZ has but, I think when young girls see this and know that MONET can handle it they might feel that they can handle it too!!

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