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Why Can't I Be You?

(Rated TV-PG, Reality TV, Starring Nick Zano, Where to watch: MTV, MTV2, Online)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 11, age appropriate for kids over 12; suggested age 12.

  • Is it any good?

    3.0

  • Common Sense says

    Offbeat reality show helps build self-esteem.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 12 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Although it's not always evident, the show's overall goal is to help people be more comfortable with who they are by giving them the chance to learn what it's like not to be themselves. While the "mentors" are paid for their time, most of them ultimately take a genuine interest in helping out the person who's seeking their guidance.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Not an issue.

  • Sex:

    Some mild sexual innuendo, including conversations about flirting and "sleep overs" with people of the opposite sex. One participant was told to "be an adult" after he assumed that his male admirer was gay. Another was called a "pimp" as a compliment.

  • Language:

    Words like "hell" are occasionally heard.

  • Consumerism:

    Southern California businesses and hot spots like the Spider Club, Canter's Deli, Dolce Restaurant, and Equinox Gym are visible.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Consumption of alcohol (beer, mixed drinks) is sometimes visible. In one episode, the host offers to act as a designated driver if somebody drank at a party.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Why Can't I Be You?

Parents need to know that this reality series -- which follows young adults as they spend 48 hours with someone who seems (to them) to have the "ideal" life -- is a little offbeat, but the overall goal is to help people become more comfortable with themselves. While the show is pretty mild overall (especially for MTV), expect some mild sexual innuendo, occasional strong language (mostly along the lines of "hell"), and drinking.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about whether this show actually accomplishes what it sets out to do. Does the show's "experiment" really help people feel more comfortable in their own skin? Can you think of another way that a reality show could make the same point? Would you be willing to share 48 hours with a person to become more like her or him? What about to help someone be more like you? Families can also discuss the people that they admire. What kind of qualities does a person have to have in order for you to look up to him or her?
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