Parents' Guide to

The Boyfriend

By Stephanie Morgan, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 14+

Japanese queer-romance reality show has some sexy stuff.

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The Boyfriend TV show poster: Illustration of two Japanese men leaning in for a kiss in front of the ocean

A Lot or a Little?

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

  • The Boyfriend TV show screenshot: A Japanese man sits on the grass talking to another Japanese man.

Community Reviews

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age 11+

Based on 1 parent review

Katherine R.
Katherine R. Parent of 12, 14, 18+, 18+, 18+ and 5-year-old
July 13, 2024
age 11+

See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

THE BOYFRIEND is a Japanese reality dating show in which a group of men live together, date, and run a coffee truck business while a panel provides commentary on their every move.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: (1 ):
Kids say: Not yet rated

This Japanese show offers a refreshingly positive and sweet vibe within the realm of reality dating shows. While there are obviously some contrived moments in The Boyfriend, the participants come across as genuinely earnest about their quest for a partner. Setting them up to run a coffee truck business adds an extra layer of intrigue, making it fun for viewers to guess who'll be able to hawk the most java in addition to who may end up together. The panel watching and commenting on the men's every move also spices things up, though the straight panelists treating the queer panelist as an expert on all queer men feels reductive. Overall it's a joyful (if often cringey) watch thanks to the kind and empathetic nature of those on screen.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the significance of vulnerability and courage in personal growth and finding happiness. How do the participants of The Boyfriend exhibit these traits?

  • Discuss the sweeping statements made by the queer panelist regarding the gay community and the broader issue of stereotypes and representation in media. How can shows like this improve in representing diversity within the queer community?

TV Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

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