| 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 this reality series following comedian Roseanne Barr features her belligerent, eccentric, and downright ornery behavior that occasionally borders on abusive toward her family members. Expect frequent bleeped (but recognizable) swearing ("f--k," "a--hole," and "bulls--t"), some cigarette smoking, and frequent wine drinking.
In an effort to live a simpler and more honest life, Roseanne Barr trades Hollywood for a macadamia nut farm on the Big Island of Hawaii. Joined by her boyfriend Johnny Argent and her son Jake, Roseanne attempts to embrace the life of a farmer. Facing challenges including invasions by wild pigs and no hired help, this reality show is a look into the actress' new life that might prove to be just as wild as Hollywood.
Roseanne’s return to television is intriguing in concept, but unfortunately the docu-series provides little in the way of real entertainment or drama. There’s not a lot of nuttiness -- at least anything that rings true -- in the show, and the plot revolves around Roseanne’s constant commentary on Los Angeles, karma, marriage, and the feral pigs who frequently invade her macadamia farm. It's a sad commentary on the show that Roseanne is upstaged by these porcine creatures every time they share a scene.
And while Roseanne talks a good game about wanting to live a simpler, more honest life, she spends more time directly criticizing her children or talking about how much money she has. When she finds her son smoking behind her house she tells him that she paid him $5,000 to make him quit, and he has to pay her back. She also bosses her son-in-law around constantly, though her boyfriend Johnny bears the brunt of her criticism. While the show provides a bizarre window into the inner life of Roseanne Barr, it’s not a lookout where many of us will want to linger.
Families can talk about Roseanne's relationship with her family. Does she respect her children? Do you think they respect her?
Talk about Roseanne's relationship with Hollywood and fame. Do you think Roseanne is sincere when she says she wants to get away from Hollywood and live a simple farming life? Why do you think Roseanne's agreed to be the subject of a reality show?
Is Roseanne a role model? What defines a role model? Does a role model have to be perfect, or can you forgive some flaws?
| TV rating: | TV-14 |
| Network: | Lifetime Television |
| Cast: | Johnny Argent, Roseanne Barr |
| Genre: | Reality TV |