MTV's newest series, 16 and Pregnant, debuted last night featuring the story of Maci and Ryan, a couple from Chattanooga. From the MTV web site:
"MTV's 16 and Pregnant' is an hour-long documentary series focusing on the controversial subject of teen pregnancy. Each episode follows a 5-7 month period in the life of a teenager as she navigates the bumpy terrain of adolescence, growing pains, rebellion, and coming of age; all while dealing with being pregnant."
New York Times television critic Ginia Bellafante writes that the series was created in response to the network's declining ratings and a desire to "focus less on silly hooks and more on young people proving themselves." While Bellafante notes Maci's "impressive resolve," she finds that the show still has a hook:
"Despite its showcasing of the grim, hard work of single mothering, '16 and Pregnant' seems calculated, above all, to incite viewers of 'The Hills' to working-class voyeurism, given how many clichés of lower-income Middle American life are exploited." -Ginia Bellafante, New York Times
Watch video from the premiere episode:
John Hawbaker
Jeff on June 12, 2009
I feel so sorry for that poor boy. Dad needs his teeth kicked in. What a douchebag. He works out at my gym apparently. Maybe I'll get that chance.
erin on June 12, 2009
i don't really see tired southern stereotypes, but i do see two kids who have supportive families trying to make this work the best they can. at least they are trying to stay together. they are really young.....i was freaked out at 31 having a baby! i can't imagine being 16.
facebook-56707607 on June 12, 2009
Makes teen pregnancy look AWESOME!
facebook-500298986 on June 12, 2009
I can see both the stereotypes and the supportiveness (which they are fortunate to have). The show is certainly edited to accentuate the more "rural" aspects of the lives of these children. It's interesting because it's Chattanooga, but I'm not sure I would have watched this show if it was filmed anywhere else.
Ejl*E on June 15, 2009
It's TV Jeff. Don't believe everthing you see. I work out at that gym too. I think I would refrain from kicking anyone's teeth in. Real classy Jeff!!!
Chris on June 16, 2009
First Thing's First! Abstinence Only, peeps!
Oh... wait...