Parents' Guide to

Ruby

By Melissa Camacho, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 12+

Reality weight-loss chronicle is honest, personal.

TV Style Network Reality TV 2008
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What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

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age 13+

Based on 1 parent review

BornToWin
BornToWin Adult
February 9, 2011
age 13+

Ruby weighs in for all body types!

This show is both informative and inspirational! Not only does it address health issues of being overweight, but it realistically shows Ruby in the struggle, no glitz, no glamor, just an every day person. It also chronicles the well known fact that most eating disorders stem from an emotional/mental space, and addresses that as well. This how does not lead to false impressions of some shows, that once you lose, the battle will be so easy. Ruby conquers things that most of us dream of, such as that Harbour Bridge climb in Australia, that even her TRAINER had issues with. This is a GREAT show for all. Due to some subject matter, that is brought out in her therapy, I would not suggest it for really small children. If you are looking for motivation or just hope to persevere, this story of Ruby provides! 719 pounds, now down to 360 or so, with NO surgery! Who would not be amazed and inspired?

This title has:

Great messages
Great role models
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

RUBY chronicles the weight-loss journey of Ruby Gettinger, a sassy, 500-pound woman from Savannah who's decided to face her addiction to unhealthy foods and sedentary lifestyle head on. Faced with the reality of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and sudden death due to sleep apnea, she turns to a team of medical experts, nutritionists, and trainers to help turn her life around. Close friends and family -- like housemate/social services worker Jeff Parsons, nephew Jim Gettinger, and best friend Georgia Thompson -- are also there to support her. But staying on track isn't easy, especially when Ruby's well-intentioned friends enable her to hold on to bad habits. In the end it's up to her -- and her alone -- to find the inner strength to deal with society's unwillingness to accept overweight people, break down difficult emotional barriers, and find the motivation to keep working toward her goals.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (1):
Kids say (2):

Ruby's overall message is that a person can't succeed at losing weight if they're not doing it for themselves. It also emphasizes the importance of committing to lifestyle changes like eating healthy, exercising, and trying to understand the psychological reasons behind addictive behavior. And it offers a sometimes painfully honest look at what Ruby and people of her size face every day while navigating through a world that isn't designed for them, including activities as simple as sitting in a chair, taking a bubble bath, or putting on a seat belt.

While Ruby and her friends do talk about how and why her weight has soared so high, the show's focus is more on empowerment and change than blame. But Ruby's need to confront difficult issues like childhood trauma leads to some tough moments that may not be appropriate for young kids. Conversations about romance and sex, although mild, are a little iffy, too. But despite these moments, the series is positive overall and no doubt will serve as a source of inspiration for people who find themselves struggling with their own weight loss.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about why people choose to feature their personal problems and/or struggles on reality shows. Why do you think Ruby decided to discuss her battle with obesity in such a public forum? Do you think it will help or hurt her chances of being successful? Families can also discuss health and body image. Does being healthy mean you have to be thin? Parents, check out our tips for talking to your kids about their physical health and its relationship to the media.

TV Details

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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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