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Parents' Guide to

Rebel

By Melissa Camacho, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 15+

Lackluster, violent crime series addresses racial issues.

TV BET Drama 2017
Rebel 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?

Produced by John Singleton, REBEL is a dramatic series starring Danielle Moné Truitt as Rebecca "Rebel" Cole, a tough, no-nonsense Oakland, California detective and decorated military veteran who is forging a new path in her life while trying to cope with her brother's (Mikelen Walker) violent death. After the death of her mother, she looks out for younger brother Malik and tries to emotionally support her father (played by Mykelti Williamson) who has turned to alcohol to cope with the loss. Luckily, she's got best friend Cheena Lin (Angela Ko) former boyfriend TJ (Cliff "Method Man" Smith) to help her hold up. But the shooting death of Malik by her partner Michael McIntyre (Brandon Quinn), prompts her to turn away from the force against the wishes of her mentor, Lt. Charles Gold (Giancarlo Esposito), and start her own private investigation firm.

Is It Any Good?

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

This lackluster detective series features crime stories that take place against the backdrop of a police shooting of an unarmed black man. While it reflects one of the most controversial and emotionally-charged political and social issues of our time, the weak writing and clumsy story development fails to deliver any real sense of the powerful struggle that Rebel, as both a strong black woman and as a talented detective, is faced with.

There are some odd gaps in the overall narrative, and the shifts between Rebel's personal problems and her attempts to solve cases feel awkward. The dialogue also can feel forced and unbelievable. People may appreciate the series' attempt to address the difficult issues surrounding the contentious role race plays in law enforcement, but, ultimately, Rebel fails to come together.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the role of race in law enforcement. What makes this topic so controversial? Should race have anything to do with law enforcement? How does the news cover this issue? What about shows like Rebel? What kind of impact does this coverage had on the way people think about police? The black community?

  • Families can talk about crime. Why is it so often a subject of TV shows? Why do you think people find it an interesting subject?

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.

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