Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Fierce dance competition has profanity, positive messages.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Legendary
What's the Story?
LEGENDARY is a reality competition series featuring voguing dance teams, also known as "houses," facing off for cash, a trophy, and superior status. Hosted by MC Dashaun Wesley, the show features eight different houses from the underground ballroom scene competing in a variety of performances that combine dance, lip-synching, and modeling. They're judged by renowned vogue dancer/activist Leiomy Maldonado, stylist Law Roach, actresses Jameela Jamil and Keke Palmer, and rapper Megan Thee Stallion. The balls are extravagant and the dancers are fierce, but they're all leaving it out on the floor to achieve mega status.
Is It Any Good?
This lively competition show features different houses trying to impress with over-the-top, glitzy performances. Legendary also showcases the skill and creativity of the overall underground ballroom scene, the history of which goes back to early 20th century LGBTQ+ counterculture. Legendary reveals how Black and Latino transgender women have made it into what it is today and points to the fact that many mainstream dance trends (including Madonna's voguing) have been inspired by this movement. But it also shows the cultural significance of the houses themselves, which are tight-knit, nontraditional families that serve as the dancers' support network, especially when their biological families aren't able or willing to be there.
For those unfamiliar with ball culture, chances are it'll take an episode or two to fully understand what the judges are looking for, in addition to learning the vernacular associated with the scene. Despite some arguing and traditional house rivalries during the competition, overall messages of acceptance and family are never overshadowed. As a result, Legendary is a positive, vibrant, and high-spirited contest that's both fun and inspiring.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Legendary portrays the ballroom competition style and voguing. What kinds of things do the judges look for in each performance? Which of the houses do you think are the strongest?
How has ball culture evolved over the past century? In what ways does this underground culture influence mainstream popular dance and music?
How do house members show compassion for one another and model good teamwork? Why is teamwork such an important character strength when you're participating in a group competition?
TV Details
- Premiere date : May 27, 2020
- Cast : Leiomy Maldonado , Jameela Jamil , Dashaun Wesley
- Network : Max
- Genre : Reality TV
- Topics : Arts
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Teamwork
- TV rating :
- Awards : Emmy - Emmy Award Winner , Emmy - Emmy Award Nominee , NAACP Image Award - NAACP Image Award Nominee
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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