The Glass House
Parents say
Kids say
Searching for streaming and purchasing options ...
Common Sense is a nonprofit organization. Your purchase helps us remain independent and ad-free.
Get it now on
Searching for streaming and purchasing options ...
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 The Glass House is a Big Brother-type reality show that features lots of iffy behavior, including drinking, partying, catty behavior, salty vocab ("pissed" and "bitch" are audible, "s--t" and "f--k" bleeped), and sexual discussions. Twitter is prominently featured throughout the show, which will no doubt make it appealing to teens, but it isn't a great viewing choice for younger viewers.
Wondering if The Glass House is OK for your kids?
Set preferences and get age-appropriate recommendations with Common Sense Media Plus. Join now
Stay up to date on new reviews.
User Reviews
- Parents say
- Kids say
Too much like Big Brother!
What's the story?
In THE GLASS HOUSE, 14 contestants live in a house made completely of glass. From wild bail bondsmen and Playboy models to conservative Mormon moms, the competitors live it up in the state-of-the-art house that's completely wired for online access. As they interact with each other and compete in various challenges, viewers get to vote on things ranging from group activities to which players will be eliminated. Online webisodes and live feeds are also available for viewers to tune in. The last person left in the house wins $250,000.
Is it any good?
The Glass House, which has stirred up some controversy thanks to its similarity to the highly successful Big Brother reality franchise, features the expected drinking, drama, and crazy behavior that reality shows are known for. While some folks seem to show their real personalities while on camera, others seem to play to the suggestions made by viewing audiences.
Despite its attempt to offer a uniquely appealing viewing experience by making it as interactive as possible, the show really doesn't offer anything different beyond what's been shown before. Audiences who like this sort of voyeuristic entertainment will probably find it entertaining enough, but it's not a great choice for younger viewers.
Talk to your kids about ...
Families can talk about the appeal of reality shows. Why do you think people agree to place themselves in situations where their every move is being watched? Is it the money? Ten seconds of fame?
Is the contestants' desire to drink too much, party, have sex, and act inappropriately the main reason why people think these shows are entertaining? Are there any positive messages these shows can offer viewers?
TV details
- Premiere date: June 18, 2012
- Cast: Ashley Forrestier, Gene Bryant, Joy Glass
- Network: ABC
- Genre: Reality TV
- TV rating: TV-14
- Available on: Streaming
- Last updated: September 21, 2019
For kids who love reality shows
Our editors recommend
Top advice and articles
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
Streaming options powered by JustWatch