Parents' Guide to

The One: Making a Music Star

By Lucy Maher, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 11+

Real World meets Idol; tweens OK.

TV ABC Reality TV 2006
The One: Making a Music Star 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?

In THE ONE: MAKING A MUSIC STAR, 11 aspiring singers live together in a house and work with music industry vets in hopes of being the last competitor standing and winning a recording contract. The group, made up of young men and women between the ages of 18 and 27, live together in L.A. and spend each week working their voices and perfecting their image and choreography with music industry professionals -- including Andre Harrell, a music mogul who discovered Mary J. Blige; producer Mark Hudson; and singer/recording artist Kara DioGuardi. Once a week, the singers perform their song onstage in front of a screaming audience. Each is rated by TV viewers (who text in their votes), and the one with the lowest score gets the boot on the following night's live show.

Is It Any Good?

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

What sets The One apart from similar shows like American Idol and Rock Star: Supernova is that viewers get to see what life is like for these performers each week. Cameras installed in almost every room of the house capture weight worries, insecurity, and loneliness.

This Real World-lite voyeurism adds a much more 3-D feel to the show and enables viewers to get to know the competitors as they duke it out. The personal touch makes all the difference -- although it can also make it harder for young viewers to hear the judges criticize the singers.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about working toward a goal. Why is it important not to give up? But, on the other hand, how do you know when you've tried your best and it's time to cut your losses? How can critiques be constructive and helpful rather than hurtful? Other good topics of discussion include talent -- what is it, and what talents do your kids feel they have?

TV Details

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