Parents' Guide to

The Big 4-0

By Melissa Camacho, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 10+

Reality show celebrates getting older and better.

TV TV Land Reality TV 2008
The Big 4-0 Poster Image

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What's the Story?

THE BIG 4-0 shows how some people treat turning 40 as a midlife milestone -- rather than a midlife crisis. Using their big birthday to do things like travel, play football against a champion college team, or going skydiving, these men and women live it up and demonstrate that 40 is a great age to be. Best of all, their friends and family support their plans and celebrate along with them.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

This upbeat, positive show is a fun way of demonstrating how people are using their 40th birthday as motivation to turn a new leaf and live life to the fullest. In order to move forward, some of these folks find the courage to let go of difficult moments from their past. Others simply use the opportunity to show that they're every bit as healthy, strong, and good looking as they were in their 20s.

Some parties do include alcohol (though it's mostly social drinking), and there's some discussion of serious issues like divorce, death, and, in one case, a terrible accident. But these challenges are presented as obstacles that have been overcome, giving these folks all the more reason to celebrate their big 4-0. The series is mild enough for older tweens to watch (if they're interested, that is), and sends great messages about embracing the aging process that can serve as inspiration for people of all ages.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how TV generally represents people in their 40s. What kind of messages does the media send about aging? Do you think the media puts pressure on people to always look younger than they really are? If so, how? Families can also discuss the changes that take place in people's lives when they turn 40. Why is it such a big milestone for some people?

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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