Gotti's Way
Common Sense says
- VH1
- Reality TV
- 2007
Parents say
Kids say
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A lot or a little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this series -- which follows hip-hop music executive Irv Gotti as he regroups after being acquitted of laundering drug money -- deals with mature themes like legal controversy, infidelity, and divorce. It offers mixed messages about family relationships and includes scenes in which Gotti's children are affected by their parents' issues. You can also expect a lot of strong language (most of which is bleeped out) and some drinking, as well as sex and violence references in featured songs.
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It's alright!
What's the story?
GOTTI'S WAY chronicles the life of former record label king Irv Gotti as he tries to reclaim his hip-hop throne. As the head of Murder Inc. Records, Gotti was responsible for guiding the careers of popular musicians like Jay-Z, DMX, Ja Rule, Ashanti, and Jennifer Lopez. But his reign was cut short in 2003 when he faced federal indictment for laundering drug money. Acquitted of all charges in 2005, he now has a new record label deal and is on the verge of exploding back into the music scene -- in his own way. As the former rap mogul attempts to climb back to the top, he also copes with ups and downs on the home front. Deb, his estranged wife (and best friend) is open about their problems, discussing her struggles with their relationship and Irv's long history of infidelity. Meanwhile, Gotti tries to maintain a consistent -- and sometimes controlling -- presence in her life, as well as in the lives of their three children.
Is it any good?
The Gotti family's loving-but-dysfunctional relationship adds some drama, but it isn't really that fun to watch, especially when Irv and Deb discuss their problems in front of their kids. Gotti's Way is an obvious attempt to restore Gotti's professional and personal reputation. But while the show may appeal to hip-hop fans, the mixed messages it sends about family relationships doesn't make it a overly positive viewing choice.
Talk to your kids about ...
Families can talk about why Gotti got his own show. What audience do you think producers were hoping to reach?
Why are viewers so interested in "celebreality" shows? Do you think Gotti will be able to rebuild his career?
Why are some artists (like Cher, for example) able to successfully
revive their careers, while others aren't?
How can children cope when
parents are having problems? What can parents do to help their kids
when families are facing hard times?
TV details
- Premiere date: October 8, 2007
- Cast: Deb Gotti, Irv Gotti
- Network: VH1
- Genre: Reality TV
- TV rating: NR
- Available on: Streaming
For kids who love music
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Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.