Parents' Guide to

Sinbad: It's Just Family

By Melissa Camacho, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 13+

Upbeat reality show features positive messages about family.

TV WE Reality TV 2011
Sinbad: It's Just Family Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

Community Reviews

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age 12+

Based on 2 parent reviews

mhunter06
mhunter06 Adult
April 21, 2011
age 13+
I love this show. Glad to see positive Reality TV for once...GREAT SHOW!!!

This title has:

Great messages
Great role models
Elwooddjlp
Elwooddjlp Parent of 11-year-old
April 20, 2011
age 10+

Real familiesdo live in hollywood!!!

Congradulations to Sinbad for bringing an open and honest view of his family. I generally do not like reality shows that seem to show flashy wealthy celebrities and their spoiled children. Sinbad's family is entertaining but also like you see that they are real people. This show couldn't be better if it was written as a regular TV show with actors instead. Good luck to them all,

This title has:

Great messages
See all 2 parent reviews

What's the Story?

SINBAD: IT'S JUST FAMILY is a reality series following entertainer David Atkins, a.k.a Sinbad as tries to readjust to living under the same roof with his wife and children while attempting to jump start his career. After losing his home to the I.R.S., the actor and comedian settles into the house belonging to his wife Meredith Fuller, who he has recently remarried. Also joining them is their daughter, 25-year-old singer Paige, and 22-year-old music student Royce. Learning to live with each other again isn't easy, but they rely on their love for each other -- and their sense of humor -- to see them through.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: (2 ):
Kids say: Not yet rated

The upbeat show mixes realism with comedy thanks to Sinbad's obvious efforts to play up to the cameras that are following the family. While this makes the show feel more staged than traditional reality programs, it also makes it quite funny. The rest of the family appears so genuinely likable that one can't help but be entertained by their exchanges either.



Despite the serious obstacles the comedian faces both to his professional and personal life, he contextualizes these challenges in a way that is both positive and constructive. He also uses the opportunity to underscore the importance of family. Best of all, you can appreciate these messages while laughing.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about reality shows. How can a reality show be staged and still be considered real? How far can this staging go until the reality show turns into fiction?

  • What do you think about Sinbad's choice to discuss his financial problems and career woes on TV? Is it appropriate to have these kinds of conversations in front of reality cameras? Why do you think he and his family chose to do this?

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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