Parents' Guide to

Taxicab Confessions

By Pam Gelman, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 18+

Sex, violence, language; not a safe ride for kids.

TV Bravo Reality TV 1995
Taxicab Confessions 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 17+

Based on 1 parent review

Julie P
Julie P Parent of 6-year-old
November 12, 2008
age 17+

Almost Porn

I have seen about 5 episodes-not believable---sometimes sexy sometimes sad
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

Each episode of TAXICAB CONFESSIONS, which debuted on HBO in the mid-'90s, features conversations recorded via small hidden cameras inside taxis in New York and Las Vegas. Men and women of all ages, ethnic backgrounds, and demographics share their stories. Viewers might meet a married couple demonstrating how to use strap-ons and other sexual accessories, a self-proclaimed borderline-suicidal transvestite who always packs a butcher knife for protection, a women who describes herself as \"fat and ugly\" and has no hope of ever finding love, or two young men determined to spend their evening with many women at once.

Is It Any Good?

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

The show's "information" definitely does pique curiosity about the real lives of men and women living in urban settings. It's also very mature. Even adults are likely to be shocked by what they see and hear, but at least -- thanks to their own life experiences -- they can sift through the information and put it in context. But kids and young teens may very well be downright disturbed to hear so much raw talk of sex, violence, loneliness, desperation, fear, and sadness.

While it may all add up to be provocative slice of American urban life, Taxicab Confessions is clearly meant for adults only.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about sex, frankly. What messages does the show send about sex? Parents can point out that although different people have different sexual needs and desires, safe sex and healthy precautions are important for everyone. How do young viewers feel about watching other people's private conversations? Is this an invasion of privacy?

TV Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

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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