P. Diddy's Starmaker
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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 series -- in which singers compete for the chance to be signed to Sean "P. Diddy" Combs' record label -- features lots of entertaining musical performances ... as well as some arguing, sexually charged dancing, and strong language (though the strongest words are bleeped). There are also plenty of references to Combs’ music, companies, and products. Some of the contestants have difficult life stories that may be distressing to sensitive viewers (for example, one has a daughter with leukemia, while another turned to music after his father died). Given that and some of the behind-the-scenes content, this one's best left for teens.
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MONET DEALS WITH THE BULLIES OF THE SHOW!!
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What's the Story?
Rapper/entrepreneur/self-proclaimed star maker Sean “P. Diddy” Combs is looking to mold and launch the next big music sensation -- in P. DIDDY’S STARMAKER, 14 singers compete for that chance. The contestants live and work together in a Beverly Hills mansion while preparing for a weekly live concert, where their performances must impress Combs and his panel of judges -- including producer Richard Jerkins, music exec Tamara Corniff, and choreographer Laurieann Gibson. The singer with the weakest performance at the end of each show is eliminated; the last crooner standing wins a recording contract with Combs’ label and a chance to make their musical dream a reality.
Is It Any Good?
Starmaker takes on a bit of an American Idol quality by focusing part of each episode on each contestant's on-stage performances. But there’s also lots of typical reality show drama during the days before each concert as contestants work with various professionals to improve their voices, movement, and image. Occasional musical curve balls thrown by Combs make the journey that much more interesting.
Unfortunately, the pressure of competition leads to occasional but heated arguments among the singers, as well as other tension-filled moments. But overall, the show offers some interesting behind-the-scenes glimpses into what makes a music star, while also offering entertaining musical performances from some very talented individuals.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what it takes to become a music star. What kind of talent and/or training does someone have to have to make it in this competitive industry?
Are singers who win reality music competitions guaranteed a successful career? Why or why not? Can you think of any success stories from other shows?
How can music help people when they're facing hard times? Do you think music can help people heal?
TV Details
- Premiere date: August 23, 2009
- Cast: Laurie Ann Gibson, Sean P. Diddy Combs
- Network: MTV
- Genre: Reality TV
- TV rating: TV-PG
- Last updated: February 24, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
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American Idol
Long-running music competition is consistently entertaining.
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