Parents' Guide to

Rat Busters N.Y.C.

By Melissa Camacho, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 12+

Big ick factor in exterminator reality show, plus language.

TV Animal Planet Reality TV 2011
Rat Busters N.Y.C. Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

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

Community Reviews

See all
age 12+

Based on 1 parent review

QnzLili59
QnzLili59 Adult
August 22, 2011
age 12+

Surprisingly Funny & Will teach you a thing or two...

Great show, doesn't reflect anything negative. It is a show about the daily problems of a business and residents of NYC. The characters can be funny.
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

RAT BUSTERS N.Y.C. is a reality series that features the day-to-day activities of two New York City exterminators. Jimmy Tallman and Michael Morales, of Magic Pest Control, investigate and remove bug and vermin infestations from private homes, stores, restaurants, and hotels in all five boroughs of New York. Occasionally offering them expert advice on specific jobs is entomologist and colleague Ralph H. Maeste. The jobs aren't easy, but together they help eliminate the pests that are making their clients' lives miserable.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: (1 ):
Kids say: Not yet rated

The series highlights how exterminators deal with pest problems that range from minor bug infestations to swarms of rats taking over a space. But the real highlight of the show is watching the outspoken Jimmy and the sociable Michael interact with some rather odd clients. It's entertaining, but some will find the consistent use of creepy sound effects and dark close ups of rodents and bugs a little over-dramatic. Those who are more squeamish or sensitive will be disturbed by the images of trapped and/or dead rodents and other animals, too. But chances are that even the toughest viewers will find themselves scratching a bit while watching.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the reasons people go on reality shows. What benefit do these exterminators receive by being on this show? How do you think reality show producers decide who to feature in TV shows like this? Is this show an extended advertisement for a business?

  • Reality series often incorporate specific sounds and images repeatedly to help create a sense of drama. Why? Do reality shows that have these elements become less real because of it?

TV Details

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.

See all recommended tv lists

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