The Dudesons in America
Parents say
Based on 2 reviews
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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 this Jackass-style reality stunt show mines laughs from dangerous games that cause serious pain to the participants. Despite the disclaimer aired before the show warning kids not to try what they see on the show, tweens and some teens might be tempted to try out what is portrayed as fun, and as a normal part of male bonding. You'll see the Dudesons sliding down a bannister and slamming testicles-first into the newel post; having their earlobes nailed to a 2x4; getting flipped by angry bulls; and having their buttocks branded with a white-hot "USA" brand. You'll also hear some bleeped swearing ("f--k" and "s--t") uttered mostly in moments of extreme pain and see occasional bare buttocks.
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The Dudesons in America
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What's the Story?
When lifelong friends Jukka Hilden, Jarppi Leppälä, Jarno Laasala, and Hannu-Pekka "HP" Parviainen move their hit extreme-stunt show, The Dudesons, from Finland to the United States, they become THE DUDESONS IN AMERICA, taking up residence on a ranch and challenging each other to a littany of cringe-inducing dares. Like being dragged behind a horse on water skis through an obstacle course. Or having their buttocks branded with a blistering "USA" insignia. The Dudesons have previously appeared on Viva La Bam, and the show is produced by Johnny Knoxville and Jeff Tremaine (of Jackass fame).
Is It Any Good?
Adults who like the whole violence/comedy thing might get a few laughs at the Dudesons' expense -- or, like us, have their eyes covered for half of the show. But this is no place for kids, even with the bold-faced disclaimer that runs before each show urging them not to try these stunts at home.
The friends good-natured personalities might make it easy to overlook their irresponsible behavior. And kids who aren't old enough to exercise good judgement might be tempted to follow in the cheerful guys' footsteps. And that can only lead to injury...or a show on MTV.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the show's reliance on violence for humor, and why some people think it's funny to see others injure themselves on purpose, all for the sake of a laugh. What's the appeal?
Why would these guys agree to hurt themselves on national television -- in other words, what do you think they're getting out of it? Does the show clearly communicate the level of risk involved with each stunt?
How much of what you're seeing in real, and how can you tell? Does knowing that the Dudesons are actually in pain affect how you react to their antics?
TV Details
- Premiere date: May 6, 2010
- Network: MTV
- Genre: Reality TV
- TV rating: TV-14
- Last updated: February 25, 2022
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