Secrets of Aspen
Kids say
Based on 1 review
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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 -- much like the Real Housewives franchise -- this reality series about the members of Aspen, Colorado's social elite follows a group of women who compete for social status, live materialistic lifestyles, and squabble over men. There's some sexual innuendo, lots of alcohol consumption (wine, champagne), and some major cat fighting (including pushing and shoving). Expect strong langauge (words like "bitch" are audible, while stronger choices are bleeped) and plenty of references to labels like Chanel and Ralph Lauren.
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What's the Story?
SECRETS OF ASPEN offers an inside look at the Colorado resort town's exclusive social circle after the snow melts. Cameras follow Aspenites like divorcee Laura (whom everyone loves to hate), former beauty queen Brooke, and social veteran Shana as they make their way through the town's summer social season. Joining the tight-knit group are Miami transplants Erin and her best friend, Ben. Also adding to the fray are Star and Kat, two hardworking young women who love the high-end social scene but struggle to afford it. The drarma never ends as Aspen's upper crust competes for friends, men, and the chance to make their mark.
Is It Any Good?
Overall, Secrets of Aspen bears a strong resemblance to Bravo's Real Housewives franchise, thanks to its focus on women who place a lot of importance on material wealth, looking good, and socializing with the "right" people. Fighting for available men also seems to be a major theme.
The endless storylines about backstabbing friends, jilted lovers, and living the high life may appeal to some viewers. But these socialites are sometimes so theatrical that what they're saying seems scripted, and ultimately their stories are pretty unoriginal. The real "secret" of this reality show? It just doesn't offer anything new.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the appeal of watching shows about wealthy, elite members of society. What kinds of messages do these shows send about people who have money?
Do you think this series is purposely designed to resemble the Real Housewives shows. Do you think some copy-catting is OK, or should all series provide something original?
Do you think some reality shows are scripted and/or planned? Do you think reality shows should be considered "reality" if the cast has been told how to act or what to do once the cameras are rolling? How can you tell what's real?
TV Details
- Premiere date: January 3, 2010
- Network: VH1
- Genre: Reality TV
- TV rating: TV-14
- Last updated: February 24, 2022
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