Parents' Guide to

Sunset Tan

By Sierra Filucci, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 15+

Catty reality show burns brain cells to a crisp.

TV E! Reality TV 2007
Sunset Tan 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 15+

Based on 1 parent review

Joshcruz
Joshcruz Parent of 23 and 25-year-old
December 31, 2008
age 15+

Fun Show

My kids make me watch this. I have a 23 and a 26 year-old. It truly is a fun show. Its all fun! I recommend it for kids over 15 years of age. A fun corky reality show.
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

Reality show SUNSET TAN revolves around the titular California-based tanning salon chain. Staffers' and clients' often-ridiculous, sometimes over-the-top dramas take center stage, drawing viewers into the personal and professional lives of these catty, flirty, and ambitious young people. From the bronzed businessmen bosses to the giggly blonde-girl duo of Molly and Holly (dubbed "The Ollies"), the cast clearly loves the spotlight. Episodes focus on who will get promotions, how many sales each employee makes, and interesting clients -- including Britney Spears and a corpse in need of a tan.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: (1):
Kids say: Not yet rated

Cameras zoom in on poolside streaking sessions and jiggling bosoms, and neither staffers nor clients seem to have any qualms about stripping down to nothing with the cameras rolling (key bits are blurred). With its unquestioned focus on physical looks, as well as displays of dysfunctional professional behavior, Sunset Tan is clearly intended to be a guilty pleasure for adults. But parents may well want older teens to steer clear, since the show is so caught up in sexism, consumerism, and unbridled greed.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the show's messages. What is it saying about body image and beauty? What standards of beauty does it adhere to? Who sets those standards? Do you think the show's producers are trying to objectively document what goes on behind the scenes of a tanning salon, or is it meant to be a guilty pleasure? Also, how can salespeople keep their integrity while trying to make a sale? Is there a line that can't be crossed when it comes to promoting or selling a product?

TV Details

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