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Parents' Guide to

Jockeys

By Emily Ashby, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 13+

Dramatic docu-soap is too racy for tweens.

TV Animal Planet Reality TV 2009
Jockeys Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

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What's the Story?

JOCKEYS gives viewers a glimpse inside the lives of some of the world's toughest -- and smallest -- athletes. The series follows the triumphs and failures of seven professional horse racers, bringing the cameras into the locker room -- where the rivals share a comaraderie that often falters in the face of their competitive tempers. The show also chronicles aspects of the racers' personal lives and reveals how their dangerous choice of profession weighs on the emotions of their families and friends.

Is It Any Good?

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

Think riding horses around a track is all fun and games? Think again. Jockeys sheds light on the extreme competitiveness of racing and the inner confidence it takes to mount an unfamiliar thoroughbred moments before the starting bell rings. It also gives viewers some sense of the emotional strain suffered by the jockeys' families as they watch their loved ones put their lives on the line for the job they lovel; it's easy to sense their worry at the start of each race.

The show is entertaining enough, and there's plenty of reality-style drama for viewers to lose themselves in, but it's not intended for young horse fans. Tempers sometimes fly in stressful moments, and what begins as friendly banter between competitors can quickly become heated exchanges peppered with strong language and physical outbursts. Plus, the show replays frightening scenes of racing accidents that send horses and jockeys reeling to the ground, so there's more to worry kids here than to entertain them.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how TV producers decide what footage to include in a series. Why might they choose to feature scenes of fights and conflict over calmer moments? How much does editing impact the "reality" of reality TV? Families can also discuss choosing a profession. Teens: What do you want to be when you grow up? What factors affect your decision? What kind of schooling or training will you need for the job? Are there physical requirements? If so, will you have to change your lifestyle to meet them? What's important to you about the work you do? How might money affect your decision?

TV Details

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