Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List

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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 reality show about comedian Kathy Griffin features lots of cursing, though the most offensive words are bleeped. The humor is adult-oriented and covers sex, alcohol, politics, and intimate relationships. Griffin makes fun of everybody, including her parents and her fans. Griffin is honest about her search for fame and admits that her occasional altruistic acts are merely hunts for media attention.
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What's the Story?
In Kathy Griffin's Bravo reality show MY LIFE ON THE D-LIST, viewers watch this fame-obsessed comedian's continual efforts to remain in the public eye, which are often embarrassing failures. Griffin doesn't wallow in her disappointments too deeply, but viewers get to see moments that surely hammer at her self-esteem, as when she uses a charity event being held at her home as leverage to get free products and discounted floor samples. Griffin's even-tempered husband, Matt, provides a refreshing relief to Kathy's demanding, high-energy nature in early episodes, but they've since split up. And her parents are wonderfully supportive and adorable -- despite the fact that even they aren't spared Griffin's sharp-tongued mockery.
Is It Any Good?
Watching D-List gives viewers a peek into what lower-level celebrities must have to do to make money and stay relevant. It's exhausting work, and you have to both admire the effort and wonder why the attention is so important. While it's fun to watch Griffin keep up the fight, perhaps the show will give fame-hungry teens a tiny glimpse into the real -- and often unglamorous -- world of celebrity.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about fame. What's so appealing about being famous? How far would teens go to get attention? Is there a comfortable balance between fame and obscurity? What celebrities do family members admire and why? When you watch this show, do you feel like you're laughing with Griffin or at her?
TV Details
- Premiere date: August 3, 2005
- Cast: Kathy Griffin
- Network: Bravo
- Genre: Reality TV
- TV rating: TV-PG
- Last updated: March 1, 2022
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