The Michael Vick Project
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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 reality series centers on controversial NFL player Michael Vick, who's rebuilding his life after serving a prison sentence for a dog fighting conviction. There are some positive messages about taking responsibility for your actions, redemption, and giving back to the community, but they're offered within the context of the sensational stories surrounding the initial crime. Expect to see news footage of violent dogs, angry protesters, and convicted criminals in prison. Characters discuss marijuana possession and drug abuse within the Vick family, and some drink champagne.
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What's the Story?
THE MICHAEL VICK PROJECT follows NFL player Michael Vick as he starts his life over after serving two years in prison for a dog fighting conviction. Vick -- along with his fiancée Kijafa, brother Marcus, and other family members -- openly discusses his illegal dog fighting activities and the negative impact they had on his family before and after serving his sentence. Cameras follow as he attempts to restore his family name by giving back to the African-American community through mentorship and service -- and works on rebuilding his professional football career.
Is It Any Good?
The series, which is essentially a promotional vehicle for the fallen football hero, allows viewers to hear the player's descriptions of his past mistakes, which are made more poignant in contrast to the sensational details surrounding his crime and conviction. It also shows him taking responsibility for his actions and proactively making positive changes in his life.
There's a sense that Vick is trying a little too hard to remake himself as a likable and sympathetic character in front of the camera. And it doesn't help that the show features reenactments of past events and downplays the cruelty suffered by the animals as a result of Vick's involvement in dog fighting. But if you can get past this, you'll find a show about someone who's been given a second chance and who's using that chance to do something constructive for himself and the people around him.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about whether or not celebrities who've made mistakes and/or committed crimes should return to the media spotlight. Do you think celebrities who've made public mistakes can serve as positive role models once they face consequences?
TV Details
- Premiere date: January 26, 2010
- Cast: Kijafa Frink, Marcus Vick, Michael Vick
- Network: BET
- Genre: Reality TV
- TV rating: TV-14
- Last updated: February 24, 2022
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