Rodeo Girls
Female barrel racers compete, argue, curse.
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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 Rodeo Girls is a catty reality series that features women competing on the rodeo circuit. While the series highlights some of the challenges women face in the sport, most of the focus is on the rivalries between the women. Expect some strong language, references to having sex, folks in bikinis and in their underwear, and plenty of drinking.
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What's the Story?
RODEO GIRLS is a reality series featuring a group of female barrel racers as they live on the road to hit the rodeo circuit. It stars top barrel racer Marvel Murphy, racing champion Barb West, who is returning to the circuit after some time off, and Darcy LaPier, known more for her high-profile marriages than her racing success. Rounding out the group are rookies Megan Etcheberry and Jessica Holmberg, and West's horse wrangler Sadie Sullivan. Occasionally stirring up some excitement are Marvel's cousin and trainer Ty Murphy, and trick roper Anthony Lucia. From struggling to focus on their racing, to coping with the rivalries that emerge among them, the women work hard to follow their passion in a world that remains dominated by men.
Is It Any Good?
Rodeo Girls offers an inside look at what life is like for women who actively compete in rodeo circuits, which requires them to be continually on the road, and to have the financial means to invest in the horses, training, and the equipment they need to remain competitive. It also highlights some of the challenges these women face because the male-dominated rodeo culture, including having their talents minimized, and participating in gimmicks like racing in bikinis in order to excite audiences.
There are some interesting details here, but most of the show is focused on the relationships between the women, which range from being supportive to catty. Some of their wild behavior, which a few of them characterize as a mark of female independence, is also featured. Ultimately, it's a show that could have been an empowering reality series supporting today's rodeo women, but instead simply offers typical voyeuristic entertainment.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about barrel racing. What exactly is it? Do you need to have a lot of money to be able to participate in the sport? What kinds of skills do you have to have to do well in it?
Do you think this show offers a realistic view of what life on the rodeo circuit is really like? Why or why not?
Does this show depict relationships between women realistically? How do you act with your friends?
TV Details
- Premiere date: December 11, 2013
- Network: A&E
- Genre: Reality TV
- Topics: Sports and Martial Arts, Horses and Farm Animals
- TV rating: TV-PG
- Last updated: August 30, 2022
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