Common Sense Media Review
By Kari Croop
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Flesh-peddling reality show features shocking, graphic sex.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 18+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
What's the Story?
The Showtime reality series GIGOLOS centers on five male escorts living and working in Las Vegas. Nick and Jimmy worked together as exotic dancers before branching out into professional \"entertaining,\" Steven got into the business through modeling and is also the father of a 5-year-old son, Brace is an industry veteran who's seen it all, and Vin is an eager new recruit. Together, they take on clients of every shape, size, and sexual fetish.
Is It Any Good?
Describing Gigolos as "good television" isn't really accurate. But for adults who can handle its unblinking look at the barely legal sex trade, it is oddly compelling in a sexual train wreck sort of way. Even though the frank talk and graphic visuals might be too much for sensitive viewers (and a few scenes will shock even the most open-minded), by sticking around, you'll get an eye-opening look at human sexuality, self-esteem, and the services that people are willing to pay for in a capitalist society.
Indeed, one of the most uncomfortable plot lines involves a new kind of "date" for the veteran gigolos: a divorcee whose sexual fantasy is to have sex with four men at the same time. But in the process of delivering the foursome that their paying client wants, the guys find themselves openly questioning how far they'll go for money. Brace is fine with it in theory, but once things get going, he's visibly bothered and hides out in the bathroom while his co-workers take care of the client. "To me, it's freaky," he says ruefully. "I feel like I'm on the ... set of a porno, and if I wanted to be in a porno, I'd do porno."
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the explicit nature of the show's sex scenes. Do you consider them pornographic or just graphic? What's the difference, and where do you draw the line?
What are the consequences of making a living as an escort? As far as you can tell, are the men using protection when they have sex with their clients? What are the health risks of having multiple sexual partners?
Are women less likely than men to hire someone for sexual pleasure? What's your opinion of a woman who would pay for male companionship -- and, presumably, sex? Is it more common -- and generally acceptable -- for a man to do it? Is there a double standard?
TV Details
- Premiere date : April 7, 2011
- Network : Showtime
- Genre : Reality TV
- Topics : Friendship , Arts ( Music and Sing-Along )
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 7, 2025
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