Common Sense Media Review
By Jill Murphy
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Former boy bander grows up; too edgy for kids.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
THERE & BACK: ASHLEY PARKER ANGEL gives the former member of boy band O-Town another chance at fame. Angel claims to be starting from the bottom, but when we first catch up with Angel, he's in the process of recording his new album, he's signed back to his former manager (who previously managed Britney Spears), and he has a meeting with the Blackground Records CEO/President, who almost immediately cuts him a check for $10k. In his personal life, Ashley and his girlfriend, Tiffany, are awaiting the birth of their first child. The couple live with Tiffany's mom in a small apartment, but with Ashley's successful meeting, they're able to get into a house by the end of episode one.
Is It Any Good?
Teens should be aware that shortcuts and MTV exposure are rare and not available to everyone. Since Angel is trying to separate himself from his bubble-gum pop background, the show is trying to be more edgy (which might explain why the producers decided to include footage about Angel's erection and the fact that his girlfriend's mom noticed it). However, the older audience the producers are trying to draw isn't likely to be interested.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about why Angel needs to fight the boy band stereotype. Is it realistic to focus on becoming a star when you're broke and have a baby on the way? Do teens think Angel would have a second chance if he didn't have a reality show? How do most struggling musicians get their break?
TV Details
- Premiere date : January 9, 2006
- Cast : Ashley Parker Angel , Lyric Angel , Tiffany Lynn Rowe
- Network : MTV
- Genre : Reality TV
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 19, 2019
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