Parents' Guide to

The Governor's Wife

By Melissa Camacho, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 14+

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

TV A&E Reality TV 2013
The Governor's Wife Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

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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?

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

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

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