Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Same stereotypically catty wives, different sport.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
BASEBALL WIVES, yet another installment of the VH1 sports wives reality franchise, features five women who are married to, divorced from, or have had a long-term relationship with a major league baseball player. The Scottsdale, Arizona, group features Chantel Kendall, the ex-wife of Kansas City Royals catcher Jason Kendall; Brooke Vallone, wife of relief pitcher Ron Villone; and Tanya Grace, the ex-wife of Chicago Cubs player Mark Grace. Joining them is Jordana Lenz, the ex-girlfriend of Milwaukee outfielder Nyjer Morgan, and Erika Monroe-Williams, wife of five-time all-star champion Matt Williams. Rounding out the gang is the notoriously wild Anna Benson, who is married to retired N.Y. Mets pitcher Kris Benson. From enjoying Scottsdale's social life to engaging in endless cat fights, the wives showcase some of the benefits -- and frustrations -- that come with living life as a member of the baseball wife community.
Is It Any Good?
Like most of the other "sports wives" shows, Baseball Wives offers a voyeuristic look into the high-class, sorority-like community in which these women appear to circulate. Although some of them are successful, professional women in their own right, they define themselves by the material wealth and status that comes from being the partner (or former partner) of a baseball player.
Some of the challenges that come with being in a long-term relationship with a pro athlete are discussed, but it's the catty drama between these women that drives the show. Their social interactions seem a bit contrived and leave you feeling like these exchanges are simply being performed for the camera. It's definitely not for everyone, but fans of the franchise will probably find it entertaining enough to tune in.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about why these women would agree to appear on a reality show. Do you think their over-the-top behavior represents who they are and how they act every day? Or are they simply acting to create some entertaining moments?
There are lots of existing stereotypes about the lives of professional athletes and their partners. Do you think shows like this one perpetuate or break down these stereotypes? What are the similarities and differences between the different "athletic wife" communities?
TV Details
- Premiere date : November 30, 2011
- Network : VH1
- Genre : Reality TV
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 25, 2022
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