The Governor's Wife

TV review by Melissa Camacho, Common Sense Media
The Governor's Wife Poster Image

Common Sense says

age 14+

Reality-show trials of ex-con governor and his younger wife.

A&E Reality TV 2013
Rate TV

Parents say

No reviews yet.

Add your rating

Kids say

No reviews yet.

Add your rating

Common Sense is a nonprofit organization. Your purchase helps us remain independent and ad-free.
Rate tv

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.

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 Governor's Wife is a voyeuristic reality series that follows the former governor of Louisiana and ex-con Edwin Edwards and his much younger wife Trina. There are lots of stereotypical comments made about blonde women, some strong sexual innuendo, and topics like going to prison and artificial insemination are discussed. There's drinking, smoking, strong language, and some catty exchanges. Edwin Edwards' authorized biography is visible, as are Apple computers and logos for Columbia sportswear. Older teens will be able to handle it, but it's really meant for grown ups.

Community Reviews

There aren't any reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.

What's the Story?

THE GOVERNOR'S WIFE is a reality series starring former Louisiana Governor Edwin Edwards and his 34-year old wife Trina as they take the new South by storm. As the 86-year old Edwards enjoys life after serving eight years in federal prison on corruption charges, Trina works hard to fit herself and her two teenage sons, Logan and Trevor, into his upscale, public life. Making her life even more difficult are Anna and Victoria, Edwards' 60-something outspoken daughters. It's not always easy, but the pair are determined to live happily ever after.

Is It Any Good?

The Governor's Wife offers a voyeuristic look at the May-December relationship, the nature of which is underscored by comments about Trina's youth and interest in the Edwin family's wealth. It is also an attempt to restore some of the former governor's reputation after being convicted on racketeering charges.

The affection Trina and Edwin show each other has its unique appeal. But the show's real fun comes from Anna and Vicki Edwards, thanks to their blunt conversations with (and about) Trina, their father, and each other. Not everyone will approve of what they see here, but for reality fans, there's lots of entertainment here to be had.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the reasons prominent couples choose to appear on reality shows. Is what they do and how they act in front of the cameras real? Or are they acting out for entertainment's sake? What are some of the advantages of couples with public lives having a reality show? Disadvantages?

  • Is it ever appropriate to use stereotypes to characterize someone or something, even when it sounds funny?

  • What is the Edwards family is trying to accomplish with their show?

TV Details

Our Editors Recommend

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.

See how we rate