| ON: Content is age-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. | |
| NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Parents need to know that although this practical joke show -- which features celebrities playing pranks on unsuspecting fans -- isn't particularly mean spirited, there's still plenty of scheming and behind-the-scenes laughter at the fans' expense. You an also expect some sexual innuendo, drinking (wine, champagne), mild drug references, and lots of strong language (plenty is audible, but words like "f--k" and "s--t" are bleeped).
In PLAYED BY FAME, unsuspecting fans are "pranked" by their favorite celebrities. Hosted by Al Shearer, the show invites stars like The Game's Wendy Raquel Robinson, former America's Next Top Model contestant Toccara, and rap artist Ludacris to allow a fan to spend an entire day with them. But instead of the dream experience the devoted fan was hoping for, the celebs lead their unwary admirers into a series of situations that have been specifically set up to give the fan nightmares. From jumping over brooms to train dogs to fending off obvious advances from the celebrity's supposed "friends," each fan tries to enjoy their time while simultaneously attempting to cope with the weirdness. And at the end of the day, just when it doesn't seem like things can get any stranger, the truth is revealed.
Despite the behind-the-scenes laughter from those in on the day's pranks, Played by Fame doesn't come across as particularly mean spirited. In fact, while much of the show's humor comes from the unsuspecting fans' reactions, plenty of laughs also come from the performances of the various celebrities -- who must find ways to keep the pretense going all day.
But not all of the show's funny moments are appropriate for young viewers. Some of the jokes rely on strong sexual innuendo, while others incorporate drinking and drug references to make them believable. Meanwhile, both the celebrities and their fans use lots of strong language. But teens mature enough to handle the content who like prank shows will probably enjoy it.
Families can talk about why celebrities would choose to play jokes on their fans. Do you think it's a good idea for them to toy with their admirers? What risks are involved? Does this show help or hurt the celebrities' image? Families can also discuss the difference between playing a practical joke on someone and just being mean. When does a prank go too far?
| TV rating: | TV-14 |
| Network: | BET |
| Cast: | Al Shearer |
| Genre: | Reality TV |