Parents' Guide to

Excused

By Melissa Camacho, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 14+

Dating competition is more snarky comedy than romance.

TV Syndicated Reality TV 2011
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What's the Story?

EXCUSED is a reality competition show that features two women screening potential dates in hopes of finding love. Along with host and Last Comic Standing winner Iliza Shlesinger, the women sit in the "Excuse House" and watch men pitch themselves to a security camera over the mansion's front door. After excusing the guys who fail to impress, the four remaining hopefuls enter the house and wait for the women to review their online profiles. After a second elimination, the women spend some one-on-one time with each man to see which one impresses them the most. The guy surviving the final elimination gets to choose which one of the women he wants to find romance with. But she gets the last word, and may excuse him before they get a chance to celebrate.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

The dating contest focuses more on comedy than romance thanks to Shlesinger's unique humor, and the men's varied (and often pathetic) attempts to impress the women who are screening them. Meanwhile, some of the women seem to enjoy flirting and get a potential date's attention only to be able to beat the other woman, rather than really looking for someone to build a relationship with.

It's milder than many dating competition shows, but still contains its fair share of sexual innuendo, strong language, and drinking. Shlesinger's comments are pretty snarky, too. But folks who enjoy this sort of thing may find it worth watching.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about dating shows. Do you think appearing on a television dating competition can lead to a serious and/or lasting relationship? Do you think the way people behave on these shows is the same when the cameras are off? What kinds of messages do shows like this send about dating and sexual behavior?

TV Details

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