Scott Baio Is ...

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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 adult-targeted reality show -- which tracks the emotional journey of actor Scott Baio -- is better (and somewhat tamer) than many of its "celebreality" siblings. Expect to see some scantily clad women and hear a fair bit of language (though anything stronger than words like "balls" and "crap" is bleeped). The show also raises plenty of mature issues connected to sex, relationships, and parenthood.
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What's the Story?
As the charismatic cutie on hit sitcoms like Happy Days and Charles in Charge, Scott Baio was undeniably hot in the 1970s and '80s, and he always had his pick of beautiful women. But in his own words, Baio always tended to "hit a wall" that kept him from truly committing to another person. Now, in his 40s, he's finally found the right woman -- but is he ready to commit to both her ... and the baby she's expecting? In the first season, a no-nonsense life coach helped Baio sort out his problems. He broke up with his girlfriend, pledged to stay celibate for two months, and looked up most of his ex-girlfriends to ask them what went wrong and why. Now, back with Renee and expecting their first child, Baio faces a whole new set of challenges.
Is It Any Good?
Baio's televised emotional journey is both entertaining and engaging, but not necessarily for the reasons you might expect. Baio is immediately likeable, and you want him to succeed. But it's not because you adored him as Chachi or Charles -- it's because he's humbly putting it all on the line as Scott Baio, the person.
The refreshing thing is that, unlike a lot of other reality fare, SCOTT BAIO IS... doesn't have to rely on exploitation or extremes, and that's what makes it such a pleasure to watch. It's been a long time since Baio has starred in his own series, but playing himself is his best role yet.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the characteristics of healthy relationships, the institution of marriage, and what it means to be fully committed to another person. Do you think the media portrays all of those things accurately? Why or why not? What about parenthood? Do you think TV shows and movies give people a fair idea of what having children entails? Why do you think Baio wanted to make this show? What's in it for him?
TV Details
- Premiere date: July 15, 2007
- Cast: Scott Baio
- Network: VH1
- Genre: Reality TV
- TV rating: NR
- Last updated: October 11, 2020
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