Iconoclasts

TV review by Lucy Maher, Common Sense Media
Iconoclasts Poster Image

Common Sense says

age 13+

Stars chat up their own idols in interview series.

Sundance Channel Reality TV 2005
Rate TV

Parents say

No reviews yet.

Add your rating

Kids say

No reviews yet.

Add your rating

Common Sense is a nonprofit organization. Your purchase helps us remain independent and ad-free.
Rate tv

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

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 introduces viewers to cultural tastemakers from many walks of life: acting, journalism, art, cooking, and more. Each episode is both entertaining and educational, and there's not too much iffy content. But chances are that most kids won't be all that interested in the concept or the interview format.

Community Reviews

There aren't any reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.

What's the Story?

Like many other interview/profile shows, ICONOCLASTS introduces viewers to people who have contributed greatly to their respective fields, from fashion and business to music and entertainment. The twist here is that each of the two famous folks featured in an episode interviews the other. For example, in one episode, Saturday Night Live creator Lorne Michaels sparred with singer Paul Simon, unearthing interesting anecdotes and unique moments in each other's lives. Other episodes have featured R.E.M.'s Michael Stipe and restaurateur Mario Batali, screen legends Robert Redford and Paul Newman, former Gucci designer Tom Ford and artist Jeff Koons, actress Renee Zellweger and journalist Christiane Amanpour, and many more.

Is It Any Good?

Iconoclasts is an engaging show that transcends run-of-the-mill Q-and-A sessions. While the series might appeal most to older viewers who are more familiar with the people being profiled, there's little that should hold parents back from letting kids tune in. They just might learn something.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how people become leaders in their field. What kind of work goes into creating a career? How do you figure out what you want to be? Kids, do you have any idea what profession you'd like to pursue yet? Families can also talk about the show's central idea: that celebrities look up to stars/high-profile people, too. Does that make these famous folks seem more relatable? Who would you interview if you had the chance? What would you ask them?

TV Details

Our Editors Recommend

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.

See how we rate