Hair Battle Spectacular
Fantasy hair competition has big styles but falls flat.
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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, like most shows of its kind, this reality series -- in which stylists compete in fantasy hairstyling challenges for a cash prize -- has lots of bickering between contestants, strong language (though "f--k" and "s--t" are bleeped), sexual innuendo, and drinking. It isn't the most exciting show, but some teens might be interested in the over-the-top hairstyles that it showcases (or, if not that, then the drama between the contestants).
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What's the Story?
In HAIR BATTLE SPECTACULAR, 10 extreme hairstylists create outrageous fantasy 'dos in hopes of winning $100,000. Each week, the contestants compete in theme-inspired challenges designed to test their ability to tell stories through hair constructions (which can include both natural and woven hair, as well as props). They then present their hairstyles in a "Glam Slam" -- a performance-driven presentation that highlights their creations in front of a live studio audience -- and a panel of judges (including award-winning hair designer Erick J., celebrity stylist Lindsay Albanese, and a rotating guest judge) decides on the best style. At the end of each episode, the designer producing the worst "hair don't" is eliminated, while the rest of the stylists get closer to the cash prize.
Is It Any Good?
The series, which is hosted by Brooke Burns, showcases the growing "fantasy hairstyle" trend, which has been made popular in the mainstream by performers like Lady Gaga. It highlights the creativity and artistry required to translate stories into large, dramatic hairstyles, as well as the kind of styling and performance required to show them off effectively.
Like most reality competitions of this kind, much of the show's focus is on the contestants, who often seem to be trying too hard to flaunt egos that seem bigger than the hairpieces they're creating. And the judges, despite their efforts to be hip and trendy, are also a little flat. Viewers may be drawn to watch simply out of curiosity, but outside of the outrageous hairstyles, the show just isn't very exciting.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the appeal of this kind of reality show. What others is it like? Does anything set it apart from similar shows? Why do you think the contestants were chosen?
Did you know anything about "fantasy hairstyling" before watching this show? Is it an art form, or simply an interesting way of styling hair?
TV Details
- Premiere date: August 10, 2010
- Cast: Brooke Burns, Derek J, Lindsay Albanese
- Network: Oxygen
- Genre: Reality TV
- TV rating: TV-PG
- Last updated: October 14, 2022
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