The Secret Life of the American Teenager

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Season 1
Season #: 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
5.4

Mixed or average reviews- based on 131 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 67 out of 131
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 131
  3. Negative: 57 out of 131
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User Reviews

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  1. CityGirl
    Mar 16, 2011
    2
    I try not to watch this show because I turned it on and counted over 50 times that they said "sex" "abstinence" or made some other blatant sexual reference in one episode "Ashley, are you going to have sex?" "I'm not going to have sex. And if i was going to have sex i wouldn't tell you about sex" "Sex is something you should talk about. sex...." blah blah blah. Oh please, realisticI try not to watch this show because I turned it on and counted over 50 times that they said "sex" "abstinence" or made some other blatant sexual reference in one episode "Ashley, are you going to have sex?" "I'm not going to have sex. And if i was going to have sex i wouldn't tell you about sex" "Sex is something you should talk about. sex...." blah blah blah. Oh please, realistic this show isn't… Expand
  2. JenniferN
    Jan 4, 2010
    1
    OMG.... i just got out of high school about a year ago... this TV show is the most unrealistic TV show out there...... me and my boyfriend lived together for three years now and we dont talk about sex THAT much... i swear.. in this TV show..... you hear sex in every single scene. =.= LAME!
  3. brookea.
    Oct 6, 2008
    10
    Its was really good and it has too many twists i cant wait for the n ext season to come up.
  4. Yasmine
    Jul 10, 2009
    10
    This is an amazing show i have been watching it ever since the first day it premiered and i fell in love with it in the first five min. it deserves much more then a 47.
  5. PhilipG.
    Jul 23, 2008
    0
    This show is amazing! I love all the drama and the storyline is awesome!
  6. VictoriaS
    Jul 30, 2008
    9
    I watched the pilot purely because Molly Ringwald is in the show. I am now thoroughly addicted. It's definitely a guilty pleasure, because no matter how much I enjoy it, certain parts of this show really aren't well-executed. But I find it enormously, ENORMOUSLY entertaining. I think it's definitely worth watching at least once...and I personally will be watching it every week.
  7. RachaelS.
    Jul 6, 2008
    10
    This is hands down one of the best shows I have ever watched. I can barely wait until Tuesday. You would have to be crazy not to like this show.
  8. KimL.
    Jul 6, 2008
    10
    This show is more realistic than most shows on tv today. It sends a serious message but is entertaining at the same time. It doesn't tell kids not to do it, that just makes them want to do it more. It informs kids of the consequences and leaves the choice to them. The cast matches fairly well and most of them are very in character. the settings are very realistic as well. overall it This show is more realistic than most shows on tv today. It sends a serious message but is entertaining at the same time. It doesn't tell kids not to do it, that just makes them want to do it more. It informs kids of the consequences and leaves the choice to them. The cast matches fairly well and most of them are very in character. the settings are very realistic as well. overall it is very good.… Expand
  9. lizzieliz101545
    Mar 23, 2011
    5
    i've watched it since the start and at first it was really good but it gets cheesier and cheesier. the actors are so HORRIBLE except for about four people like shailene and molly of course and a lot of the story line is just.... awkward so maybe they cast would be better in a dif project but still. even with all of this... i'm strangely addicted and they def know how to keep you hooked.i've watched it since the start and at first it was really good but it gets cheesier and cheesier. the actors are so HORRIBLE except for about four people like shailene and molly of course and a lot of the story line is just.... awkward so maybe they cast would be better in a dif project but still. even with all of this... i'm strangely addicted and they def know how to keep you hooked. but i'm seriously am only watching it to watch amy and ricky's love story... i fast forward through all the rest of the classmates' dramas because it's seriously tacky and fake and just horrible acting. it's not completely awful but it's not a work of art… Expand
  10. fade
    May 6, 2012
    10
    Love this show from the start. It is very very funny. Love the adult actors and the surprise guest stars. Cool to see upcoming new young actors getting there start on this show. Lots of twist and turns. Lots of talent.
  11. Genej
    Jan 5, 2010
    2
    In the end, all you see is kids mention the word sex 300 times during one episode. It's a completely biased show with bad Christian undertones hidden by it's onimous, self-absorbed, completely mornic, sex depraved writers. It's really hard to not look away from this mess, and I mean that in the worst way possible. There are plenty of shows trying to captilize in on the In the end, all you see is kids mention the word sex 300 times during one episode. It's a completely biased show with bad Christian undertones hidden by it's onimous, self-absorbed, completely mornic, sex depraved writers. It's really hard to not look away from this mess, and I mean that in the worst way possible. There are plenty of shows trying to captilize in on the Juno/teen-mom situation. Ironically, MTV's Teen Mom is just behind this, however, Teen Mom is atleast a docu-drama. While, the writers of this show try and make the kids sound mature, all they sound like is droids from planet mono-tone. However, it ends up being one of those "so bad, it's hard not to watch" shows. Which was probably the goal for this piece of crap all along.… Expand
  12. DeeMotherof5teens
    Jan 20, 2010
    1
    Horrible Show. Here is what I got out of listening to one episode from the next room while my step daughters watched it: There's a girl that likes to have oral sex, Tom broke up with Tammy but it isn't because she won't have sex with him. She has phone sex with him all the time and Adrian thought everyone was aware of that. Tom does like a different girl and wants to have Horrible Show. Here is what I got out of listening to one episode from the next room while my step daughters watched it: There's a girl that likes to have oral sex, Tom broke up with Tammy but it isn't because she won't have sex with him. She has phone sex with him all the time and Adrian thought everyone was aware of that. Tom does like a different girl and wants to have sex with her so poor Tammy needs to put out or get out. Maria has wanted to kiss one of the boys for a long time and is now offering to have his baby. She wants to get engaged and have beautiful sex, have babies and run a sausage factory. Another girl had sex with one of the boys, but never really dated him, and that makes him feel rejected. So he offers to dance with her, yet she has to clarify if he wanted to dance vertically or horizontally. Rickie is having sex with other girls and Adrian isn't happy about it. He is also cheating on her and doesn't want to be in a relationship with her because that jeapoardizes his relationship with his son and baby mama. The parents in the show only see a problem with Amy and Adrian not getting along but don't seem to have a problem with all of these teens having sex with each other. Adrian has had sex with Rickie, Ben, Jack and other guys... Amy has only had sex with Rickie and Ben. Maria just wants to have sex with them but hasn't had it yet. Needless to say... this show will no longer be watched in my home.… Expand
  13. alicen
    Jan 4, 2010
    0
    Wow, what a terrible show for it's content and acting! I have two teenage daughters whom i have a very open relationship with and both just laugh at the absurdity of this series. It is totally unrealistic. Yes, some teens do have sex but it is NOT all they talk about. Also, a character like Ben would be considered by his peers as a freak with a sick obsession for a teen mom. If you Wow, what a terrible show for it's content and acting! I have two teenage daughters whom i have a very open relationship with and both just laugh at the absurdity of this series. It is totally unrealistic. Yes, some teens do have sex but it is NOT all they talk about. Also, a character like Ben would be considered by his peers as a freak with a sick obsession for a teen mom. If you really want to have your children see what teen moms and dads are like and what thier lives turn into after a teen pregnancy have them watch the reality show "16 and Pregnant" it's awful, trashy , sad and very depressing , now that's what typically happens in real life when you get pregnant at 15 ! This show just glamorizes the whole idea of teen sex and pregnancies...oh and by coincidence the "bad Bay" sperm donor just happens to be an incredibly good looking guy!! What the hell were the producers and writers thinking when they created this show?… Expand
  14. BrianA.
    Jul 1, 2008
    1
    I thought nothing could be more preachy then "7th Heaven". I was wrong. This show is not realistic at all. Sure, sex is an issue on the minds of high school students, but they don't talk and think about only sex 24/7. And the religious messages are just absurd. I'm expecting Pat Robertson to pop out and start rambling at any time. Terrible in all ways.
  15. Mark
    Jul 10, 2008
    0
    This show is completely unrealistic. I'm a sophomore now, and there aren't any teenagers I know that say sex that much. And just about evey character is annoying and fake. Especially Ben, and that older sister; They are awful characterization. Worst teenage show I've seen in a long time. Next time don't let the person from a Christian show try to take on teenage pregnancy.
  16. DaveT.
    Jul 10, 2008
    1
    Truly a weak attempt at presenting a fresh perspective on a common theme.
  17. daslfs.
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    I love this show! Brenda Hampton did an amazing job with casting. Shailene Woodley is perfect for the part of Amy. I reserve my Tuesday nights just to sit down and watch this very realistic show. Keep up the good work!
  18. CupcakeWagner
    Aug 5, 2008
    10
    I love this show! In high school, kids do have sex and they do get pregnant. There is diffidently all that drama and all those problems. Kids have problems at school and at home. They have relationships, break ups, all that. This show is a lot better than all those un-realistic teen shows.
  19. LeeH.
    Aug 5, 2008
    9
    Good show. Being a high school teacher, I see a lot of these characters in my students. The downside is that the show drags things out too long. Things need to move at a more steady pace.
  20. AllysonF
    Aug 7, 2008
    10
    Yes, the show might be way out in the ball park for High School drama but it brings the real views of what is on teenagers minds then the rest of those TV teen drama shows. From Labels to Religion it brings up every topic you can think of that teenagers think through. Other then the drug factor and I do for once hope they don't bring that in, it will do wonders for the plot but drug Yes, the show might be way out in the ball park for High School drama but it brings the real views of what is on teenagers minds then the rest of those TV teen drama shows. From Labels to Religion it brings up every topic you can think of that teenagers think through. Other then the drug factor and I do for once hope they don't bring that in, it will do wonders for the plot but drug opinions are crazy and won't help anything. The show brings out new meaning to the word 'Secret' because not only does the main girl act secretive she has a big one of her own and makes you wonder if she has any others. If you hate it just because it's unoriginal or unrealistic then take a look around, it's life at its funniest and TV appropriate. I know I sound like a teacher or something but if you hate it you don't have to watch it or comment it, ruining other peoples good times and favorite things can't be all there is to do in the world; I mean the main character is pregnant at 15 how about you go try getting what she has... A life.… Expand
  21. GabbyR
    Aug 8, 2008
    10
    I think this show is great i go nuts every tuesday because i love it so much. I'm hooked!
  22. DanielL.
    Aug 9, 2008
    9
    I've seen more than 300 Teenage shows around, but none ever like this one. Since I'm just about over my teenage years, and have experienced many of what some people so call " Unrealistic situations", and i say to them "Your completely wrong.". The majority of this show represent realistic situations such as young pregnancy, which also happened to a very close friend of mine. I've seen more than 300 Teenage shows around, but none ever like this one. Since I'm just about over my teenage years, and have experienced many of what some people so call " Unrealistic situations", and i say to them "Your completely wrong.". The majority of this show represent realistic situations such as young pregnancy, which also happened to a very close friend of mine. Although the indiscreet usage of the word "sex", it has and is being used as a common word in high school lately. I'm just basing myself on the show and other people's non-sense comments. Great show!… Expand
  23. DanielleT.
    Sep 5, 2008
    10
    As someone who actually relates to the girl in this story I was a teen parent. I belive this show is an amazing example of what girls really do go through in this situation. You do lose your friends and the hardest part is telling your parents. Some may think that he parents were dense well they weren't they just didn't expect that from her because that's not the sterio As someone who actually relates to the girl in this story I was a teen parent. I belive this show is an amazing example of what girls really do go through in this situation. You do lose your friends and the hardest part is telling your parents. Some may think that he parents were dense well they weren't they just didn't expect that from her because that's not the sterio type of person that gets pregnant in high school I would know I was a straight A student. It happens and it shows that this is what its like when it does happen.… Expand
  24. LisaB.
    Jan 5, 2009
    10
    I love this show, because this kind of thing actually happens in high school. It may not happen to everyone, but it still happens. People are saying that it's unrealistic and fake, but it's not. It's true, and even though you might not be pregnant at your hiugh school, I gaurantee there is someone.. I'm 16 and know someone that just had a baby at my age.. so yes. it I love this show, because this kind of thing actually happens in high school. It may not happen to everyone, but it still happens. People are saying that it's unrealistic and fake, but it's not. It's true, and even though you might not be pregnant at your hiugh school, I gaurantee there is someone.. I'm 16 and know someone that just had a baby at my age.. so yes. it happens. That's what this show portrays. .the life of a teenager who does end up pregnant and it's interesting to see what goes on with them as people find out. i LOVE this show. =]… Expand
  25. EricB.
    Jun 20, 2009
    2
    This show is absolutely awful. The acting is bad, the story is bad, and this is not what a teenagers life is like. In some episodes they say the word sex so many times it's unbearable. The drama element is awful and this show, overall, is just a big pile of crap.
  26. MorganF
    Aug 2, 2009
    2
    As a teenager, this show insults me. It is probably the most unrealistic show I have ever seen. Teens talk about sex. Teens have sex. But its not all we talk about. I absolutely cringe everytime some character opnes their mouth.
  27. CodyD.
    Aug 30, 2009
    10
    I just like everything about it iz a hole lot better then 7th heaven.
  28. Shayla
    Aug 6, 2009
    2
    Unrealistic, but still somewhat entertaining. I am an adult and I have a child and to me the most bothersome thing about this show is how mature all the teenagers seem. I've seen adults less mature about sexual issues, yet every 15 year old seems to have a better handle on sex than I do. Obviously written by someone who has a very idealistic view of what teenagers really feel like. Unrealistic, but still somewhat entertaining. I am an adult and I have a child and to me the most bothersome thing about this show is how mature all the teenagers seem. I've seen adults less mature about sexual issues, yet every 15 year old seems to have a better handle on sex than I do. Obviously written by someone who has a very idealistic view of what teenagers really feel like. Most teenage sex, especially at 15, is not fueled by logical thinking but passion, curiousity, and peer pressure. Writers do not have their finger on the pulse of teenagers.… Expand
  29. JulienF.
    Jan 21, 2010
    5
    I deeply wanted to give it a 1 or a 2, but I'd be lying to myself and to you all if I didn't say that I enjoy this show way too much for a normal person. The storylines are flat, the acting is dreadful(even for the grown-up actors),the word sex is mentioned 5000 times per episode, noting is realistic, woodley apparently forgot that if there is an N at the end of a word you have I deeply wanted to give it a 1 or a 2, but I'd be lying to myself and to you all if I didn't say that I enjoy this show way too much for a normal person. The storylines are flat, the acting is dreadful(even for the grown-up actors),the word sex is mentioned 5000 times per episode, noting is realistic, woodley apparently forgot that if there is an N at the end of a word you have to pronounce it, so why on earth am I so drawn to this show? well because it is so bad that it becomes addictive. people enjoying it because they think it's good should be treated really.… Expand
  30. MeganS
    Jan 26, 2010
    2
    I started watching this show with the Pilot and found it mildly enjoyable, but wow has it gone downhill. The main thing that bothers me is that every single scene is about sex- who
  31. LizzieC.
    Nov 11, 2008
    8
    Though the portrals of the High School kids are not the most belivable I still think the show is a great idea. Right now there are a lot of teenagers getting pregnant right now and I belive some of the teenagers don't really make the connection between sex and having babies(I'm not saying that you don't get it at all you just don't think it'll happen to you).
  32. NoOneAndEveryone
    Nov 11, 2008
    8
    My mom got pregnanat at 16. She could have had a career, a future instead she got me. She had a genuis IQ, and probably could have gone into a great school. This show, admitidly is bad, has some truth in it. I'mnot saying wait till your married, heck i'm not even saying wait till you15, just girls make sure your in charge of the protection because most guys are a little flakey. My mom got pregnanat at 16. She could have had a career, a future instead she got me. She had a genuis IQ, and probably could have gone into a great school. This show, admitidly is bad, has some truth in it. I'mnot saying wait till your married, heck i'm not even saying wait till you15, just girls make sure your in charge of the protection because most guys are a little flakey. And if you think getting pregnant will help you keep the guy you love, your dillusional, most guys will probably say the baby's not his, or don't want a baby. Most guys leave even if they do love you. You've got to remeber girls mature faster than guys, and evan though the father of the baby may love you it is not gaurenteed he will love the baby.… Expand
  33. Mary
    Jul 1, 2008
    10
    Wow I thought that was pretty good! so do all of my friends!! its a really good show!
  34. WhoopdeeD.
    Jul 1, 2008
    0
    This is the biggest waste of film I've seen in awhile.
  35. JillD
    Jul 17, 2008
    2
    Not worth wasting your time.
  36. AaliyahC.
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    I love this show I watch it every Tuesday I even got my mom watching it it helps me feel confident about highschool (freshman)
  37. victoriac
    Jul 23, 2008
    10
    I love this show!!!!! It has a good moral. It shows the outcome and the punishments for having sex and having a baby at age 15. The scipt is incredible and the actors are amazing! My favorite is Amy's little sister, Ashley. I will be devastated if they cancel this show. I can't wait for more!
  38. JustJack
    Jul 25, 2008
    2
    Typical fundie-Xtian influenced didacticism on worn out topics that are not borne out but substantiated facts. teen pregnancy is on the decline but this show merely ramps up the hysteria and bludgeons the audience with inane chicanery and ideological claptrap. We stopped watching it after we realized it gives our daughter the narrow, myopic Xtian cult messages about life. No more Xtian Typical fundie-Xtian influenced didacticism on worn out topics that are not borne out but substantiated facts. teen pregnancy is on the decline but this show merely ramps up the hysteria and bludgeons the audience with inane chicanery and ideological claptrap. We stopped watching it after we realized it gives our daughter the narrow, myopic Xtian cult messages about life. No more Xtian fundies in TV please, and enough of the "god network" already. If this is the mainstream of America, there's real reason to be afraid.… Expand
  39. RaysaJ.
    Jul 29, 2008
    0
    Teenagers, parents, Christians, educators, and medical professionals must be insulted by their portrayal in this wreck. I more than suspect the good user reviews are network interns told to blog up this mess.
  40. JoeFind
    Jul 3, 2008
    4
    Wow, I wish high school had been like this. Either these students don't exist, or I was running in WAAAY the wrong circles. Avoid this show at all costs. Just go watch a PSA about teen pregnancy instead, it'll save you scads of time.
  41. GwenB.
    Jul 6, 2008
    10
    I LOVE this show!I wish they could air it everyday being a new one!It's a good show that teenagers should watch because it shows what will happen if you get pregnant at an early age.
  42. ElizabethZ.
    Aug 11, 2008
    10
    This is seriously my absolutely favorite show ever! I am a 15 year old girl in 10th grade and even though a very few things are unrealistic, it does show a great deal of what really happens in high school.
  43. LloydE.
    Aug 19, 2008
    3
    This show is only worth watching if you're one of the parents that reads the books on how to... parent... and are over the age of 40. Need to know what goes on in your teenage daughters life? Don't fret! Look no further than this joke of a television show. You see, it's simple. Every single teenage girl, as soon as she hits 15, will: A) Have sex B) Want to have sex C) Have This show is only worth watching if you're one of the parents that reads the books on how to... parent... and are over the age of 40. Need to know what goes on in your teenage daughters life? Don't fret! Look no further than this joke of a television show. You see, it's simple. Every single teenage girl, as soon as she hits 15, will: A) Have sex B) Want to have sex C) Have sex and get pregnant Use this handy information to have awkward talks with your daughter about whether or not she's having sex. What's that? You think she isn't? Don't make me laugh. I really think this show would've done better if it made fun of what people think stereotypes are, as opposed to this laugh of a drama.… Expand
  44. JoeG.
    Aug 29, 2008
    1
    Waaaaaay too cliche.
  45. jaclynkate
    Aug 6, 2008
    7
    This show gives you a good look at every aspect of high school, everyone is too caught up in their own issues and insecurities to help Amy. I think even if this show ultimately fails, it's achieved it's goal to fill us in on high school life, even if the characters of Ben and the YOUNGER sister are a bit goofy..Didn't we all know people in school that were a bit on the This show gives you a good look at every aspect of high school, everyone is too caught up in their own issues and insecurities to help Amy. I think even if this show ultimately fails, it's achieved it's goal to fill us in on high school life, even if the characters of Ben and the YOUNGER sister are a bit goofy..Didn't we all know people in school that were a bit on the goofier side? OOH, and When i was in high school, almost everyone I know was having sex by 15. I graduated in 2006. I don't know where Mark goes to school. In a tree?… Expand
  46. teenmom
    Aug 6, 2008
    10
    I cant wait till the next episode...you can tell the guys watching...I watch with my 15 year old boy and am able to use alot that goes on to get him to understand. I graduated in a small school and it is funny that alot of this actually happened in my school.
  47. KatieC.
    Sep 4, 2008
    2
    As a fifteen-year-old girl in your average high school, I can honestly say that I'm appalled by the way this show portrays people my age. If the poor, unbelievable acting performances weren't bad enough, the stereotypical characters are so unrealistic that I found myself embarrassed to be watching the show at all. I'll try not to reiterate what many other people have As a fifteen-year-old girl in your average high school, I can honestly say that I'm appalled by the way this show portrays people my age. If the poor, unbelievable acting performances weren't bad enough, the stereotypical characters are so unrealistic that I found myself embarrassed to be watching the show at all. I'll try not to reiterate what many other people have already spoken of, but it's hard not to ramble on about how insulting I find this show when the adult's impression teenage life is so condescending and unrealistic. If that wasn't bad enough, the parents are annoying and would actually improve themselves by reading cheesy parenting books (and if that was done on purpose, I couldn't tell). All in all, this is one of the worst shows on TV. At least shows like Gossip Girl, though unrealistic, ACKNOWLEDGE that they're unrealistic. This show pretends to be what high school is actually like, and I'm disgusted by it.… Expand
  48. brittanyk.
    Feb 16, 2009
    0
    If only this show was satire then it would be funny and entertaining. the fact that it's attempting to be a real portrayal of teens is misguided and inaccurate. i sometimes wonder if any of the writers and producers ever visit a real high school before acting as if they know the REAL lives of teens.
  49. DanaA
    Feb 17, 2009
    4
    Somehow I keep coming back to this show. The characterization and acting is terrible. The entire plot is so overused, I could barf. By now, teenagers understand the concept of pregnancy. One character in particular annoys me to all ends, Ben. "I love you Amy, even though you got knocked by some other, not to mention the writers will not give us any other reason than he did it on purpose Somehow I keep coming back to this show. The characterization and acting is terrible. The entire plot is so overused, I could barf. By now, teenagers understand the concept of pregnancy. One character in particular annoys me to all ends, Ben. "I love you Amy, even though you got knocked by some other, not to mention the writers will not give us any other reason than he did it on purpose to get you. Stupid. Stupid. Can we get married now?" Or worse Amy, "I am pregnant, I wish my baby was yours, Ben. But it is Ricky... wait maybe I like Ricky now. Nope, I forgot, I'm married tro you Ben. Oh and did I mention I really and truly love you now? Well, cause I do. I love you now." And their parents trying to force them together through all of this stupid plotholes and crap. "Ben and Amy must be together, because Ricky is the devil. Pure evil. Ben is such a sweet, naive boy. Plus, he's rich and we're in poor times now, I'm the father that lives in my garage and the wife has no job." The actors are terrible. Molly Ringwald sure lost her touch. Or what she had of it anyways. This show makes me want to grind my eyes out with a machete. Grace is annoying, Adrian is annoying, Jack is annoying. Even though Ricky is the only, less-annoying character, he is edging toward toward the annoying line up. If the writers... I shouldn't even call those word deovouring and spitting idiots anything other than failures... think I'm entertain by this mess becaus I so happen to b a teenager, you are mistaken. And if they attempt to put together Ben and Amy for any other idiotic notions. I will puke. They do not love each other, they barely KNOW each other. Ben dated Amy for a couple of weeks and he did NOT know she was pregnant because she hid it from him and he was declaing LOVE since their second date. Not to mention Ben dated Amy over a bet. Good job for that throw back to 80s, cliche crap. Maybe it was an idea of Molly Ringwald.… Expand
  50. ellenm.
    Feb 7, 2009
    0
    this show is beyond a joke. as a 15 year old girl in high school i KNOW this is absolute garbage. I'm not saying that that sex isnt something that gets talked about, but in this show they don't ever talk about anything not related to sex. i was watching this episode where that adriean girl was talking to her councelor saying "i like to have alot of sex." omg who would ever say this show is beyond a joke. as a 15 year old girl in high school i KNOW this is absolute garbage. I'm not saying that that sex isnt something that gets talked about, but in this show they don't ever talk about anything not related to sex. i was watching this episode where that adriean girl was talking to her councelor saying "i like to have alot of sex." omg who would ever say that to a teacher? ;S and why do the kids just talk about sex freely with there parents? not many kids do that, at all. I also can't stand the little 'explainer' things they they throw in. its so obvious and it totally throws the whole show off. im sick of being banged over the head with this stupid message. the religous people are annoying, and i know plently of religous teenagers and none of them feel the need to inform everyone of there beliefs 24/7. the characters are completely unbelievable. adrien and the blonde jesus nut look about 10 years too old for there characters. the parents are all annoying, especially the christian ones, why would they think they have any say in there daughters romantic life? omg. this show is so annoying. this is what the show is like if you have never seen it: teen girl 1: hey, guess what, i love having sex teen girl 2: ahaha your so funny, you trickster! im christian, im christian im christian im christian i love jesus teen boy 1: your all so beautiful lets go talk in a dark lonely corner somewhere teen girl 2: no thanks my mum says im only aloud to talk to people they have met *ignores teen girl 1: OMG i know we have only been out on one date but i love you lets get married!!!!111!!!11```` teen girl 1s friends: but your pregnant! teen girl 1: NOOO IM JUST FAT AHHH.… Expand
  51. caroline
    Mar 22, 2009
    0
    The situation is very realistic- its how its portrayed. i mean seriously kids in high school are not quite so stereotyped. bad acting made worse by terriblee writing. the whole show is fake and confused- like how ben falls in love with amy in like 0.00002 seconds and then is all like LETS GET HITCHED. and his dad who's all for it. and the bad boy who's not rlly a bad boy- that The situation is very realistic- its how its portrayed. i mean seriously kids in high school are not quite so stereotyped. bad acting made worse by terriblee writing. the whole show is fake and confused- like how ben falls in love with amy in like 0.00002 seconds and then is all like LETS GET HITCHED. and his dad who's all for it. and the bad boy who's not rlly a bad boy- that is soo overdone. this show is complete crap and if u cant see that u are incredibly stupid and nieve.… Expand
  52. chem
    Aug 11, 2009
    4
    I think that although this show maybe entertaining at times, despite all the terrible actors/actresses, it gets kinda annoying with all the drama. yes, drama really happens in real life, but i just wish that the characters would at least learn their lesson a little better. they all just need to chill out! they also make it seem that sex is ok when really its probably better just to wait. I think that although this show maybe entertaining at times, despite all the terrible actors/actresses, it gets kinda annoying with all the drama. yes, drama really happens in real life, but i just wish that the characters would at least learn their lesson a little better. they all just need to chill out! they also make it seem that sex is ok when really its probably better just to wait. i don't know what i think about the show. all i know is that they probably have a bet to see how many times they can say sex on the show.… Expand
  53. lisab
    Aug 28, 2009
    1
    Man oh man. I'm one for cheesy reality tv and teen soaps but holy cow. I never notice acting but in this show, it definitely stands out. I am ten years past my teens but I know clearly, this is not how high school works. Sex wasn't brought up in EVERY conversation. The only way this show is entertaining is to laugh at. None of it is realistic in any sense . The main girl has Man oh man. I'm one for cheesy reality tv and teen soaps but holy cow. I never notice acting but in this show, it definitely stands out. I am ten years past my teens but I know clearly, this is not how high school works. Sex wasn't brought up in EVERY conversation. The only way this show is entertaining is to laugh at. None of it is realistic in any sense . The main girl has friends who are so 'cliche' it's sickening. I really don't know how this made it on ABC. It's more of an MTV hour fill in type of show. They could do so much better... Juno, which this show is related to, was much better and would never make it as a show... obviously.… Expand
  54. KiraH
    Aug 7, 2009
    0
    This is the worst show ever... the characters are either always fighting or talking about sex & nothing really ever happens. I am normally not one that notices bad acting in every show or movie, but this show has the worst acting ever! The characters are all very wooden, and nothing that happens on the show is even remotely believable. Everyone is so annoyingly linked to each other that This is the worst show ever... the characters are either always fighting or talking about sex & nothing really ever happens. I am normally not one that notices bad acting in every show or movie, but this show has the worst acting ever! The characters are all very wooden, and nothing that happens on the show is even remotely believable. Everyone is so annoyingly linked to each other that it becomes ridiculous (for example, this person's mother use to date this other person's father who had an affair with ANOTHER person's mother). It's like, how is this even realistic?? Then there is the main character, the new mother Amy, who acts like a total b--- about everything. Yes, I know she just had a baby & has to deal with all the stress & hardships of being a teen mother, but would it kill her to stop complaining & b---ing about everything & everyone for once? Also, nearly everyone seems to be OBSESSED with sex all the time that it's all anyone ever talks about. Everyone spreads all these rumors around & are always fighting one another about it that the show just becomes extremely boring to watch. And the "good girl" Grace is annoyingly preachy & delusional most of the time, while all the "bad girl" Adrian wants to do is have sex, which she seems only to be around for, in order to enhance the storyline. Amy's best friends Madison & Lauren don't even seem like her best friends, just two immature little girls who don't even know what is going on most of the time. The show focuses on how everyone is sooo involved in everyone else's life that there's little room for other things to happen, which makes it so frustrating to watch. The characters are not even the least bit likeable, nor believable. The girls all seem either very bitchy or annoying, and the guys are either very boring or just interested in sex. All in all, the show is very cliche & filled with bad acting along with shallow characters, so if you're ready to ask "So what even really happened on the show?" after each episode, then by all means watch. Not even satisfying in the least bit.… Expand
  55. [anonymous]
    Jan 12, 2010
    0
    Hey, here's a great idea! Let's make a 7th Heaven ripoff, only let's have them talk about sex every two words! Great idea, huh? Well, it is if you're my sister
  56. DanielleC
    Jul 15, 2008
    10
    I LOVE IT, my favorite show every me and my friends have parties every Tuesday for it we even make t-shirts every week, its nuts WE LOVE IT.
  57. WasaTeenMom
    Jul 15, 2008
    9
    Of course this isn't every minute of every day in high school. However, these conversations, topics and situations are real high school. Unfortunately, they too are real in the middle schools. I am impressed with the writers. They don't glorify the sex, pregnancy or disobedient behavior as soaps and other shows do. They show real life outcomes the good and the not so great! For Of course this isn't every minute of every day in high school. However, these conversations, topics and situations are real high school. Unfortunately, they too are real in the middle schools. I am impressed with the writers. They don't glorify the sex, pregnancy or disobedient behavior as soaps and other shows do. They show real life outcomes the good and the not so great! For those parents who think they should not expose their teenage to this I say "You are wrong!" "You need to make this show a family affair -- and talk about the show!"… Expand
  58. ateblank
    Jul 29, 2008
    10
    This show is awesome. anything that has to do with teens and being pregnant is awesome!!!!
  59. SophieF.
    Aug 11, 2008
    4
    This show is so corny, it's unbelievable. The only one who acts like an actual teenager is Amy. Ben sounds way too superficial, repeatedly saying he loves her, calling her his "woman", asking her to marry him and having his father support this idea? Come on, they are 15! Grace just sounds too overly religious, it's so funny yet irritating. That's not what a typical This show is so corny, it's unbelievable. The only one who acts like an actual teenager is Amy. Ben sounds way too superficial, repeatedly saying he loves her, calling her his "woman", asking her to marry him and having his father support this idea? Come on, they are 15! Grace just sounds too overly religious, it's so funny yet irritating. That's not what a typical teenager, even a christian teenager sounds like AT ALL. This is one lame show.… Expand
  60. MollyY.
    Aug 12, 2008
    1
    The only reason I gave this show a score at all is because I could not stop watching it because of how incredibly stupid it is. The parents of the pregnant girl are so dense and are sorry excuses for a parent. The parenting skills are a disgrace. Each character is such cliche, textbook label that it is disgusting. Nobody is like that in high school. Yes, teens have sex. Get over it! I The only reason I gave this show a score at all is because I could not stop watching it because of how incredibly stupid it is. The parents of the pregnant girl are so dense and are sorry excuses for a parent. The parenting skills are a disgrace. Each character is such cliche, textbook label that it is disgusting. Nobody is like that in high school. Yes, teens have sex. Get over it! I find the acting to be below par, worse than Seventh Heaven by far. I still cannot believe Molly Ringwald stooped that low to be in this show. Also, there is no way a teen would take off their shirt in school (especially a girl) and not get into any sort of trouble. There are dress codes, you know.… Expand
  61. NancyP
    Aug 19, 2008
    10
    I am the mother of two adult children and yet I am hooked on this show! It is terrific and funny at times, like Seventh Heaven, but is definitely for older teens. It's sexual discussions are NOT for younger children, but it would be a great discussion starter for parents to use with their teenagers.
  62. NikkiM.
    Aug 19, 2008
    10
    this show is chill it shows what a typical teenager thinks and it may seem a little complicated but come on it is themed drama but i know a Christian who is way better like godly than grace . i love this show and Ben is hot.
  63. KierstenA.
    Aug 22, 2008
    0
    this show is terrible, and the plotline where the cheerleader defends herself against sexual predators and then somehow becomes the town joke is reprehensible.
  64. adamb
    Sep 14, 2008
    0
    Possibly worst written and poorest acted drama of the new millenium. The school band plays and marches around the pregnant girl between classes. The actress that plays the younger sister makes Michael Phelp's look like Tom Hanks. When guys are alone they have in depth discussions about relationships. The girl doesn't know what to do after making out with the guy that got her Possibly worst written and poorest acted drama of the new millenium. The school band plays and marches around the pregnant girl between classes. The actress that plays the younger sister makes Michael Phelp's look like Tom Hanks. When guys are alone they have in depth discussions about relationships. The girl doesn't know what to do after making out with the guy that got her friend pregnant turns to her dad for advice. Totally unrealistic writing and overall unfunny ineffectve excuse for a dram.… Expand
  65. joshp
    Nov 21, 2009
    7
    I'm a 23 year old guy and my girlfriend loves this show. I started watching it with her and it's not THAT bad. I actually look forward to watching it now, but if you've only seen 1-3 episodes you'll want to hang yourself.. So much talk about teen sex, and arguably makes it look "cool" and "popular" to be a teen and pregnant... so some controversy there. One time i I'm a 23 year old guy and my girlfriend loves this show. I started watching it with her and it's not THAT bad. I actually look forward to watching it now, but if you've only seen 1-3 episodes you'll want to hang yourself.. So much talk about teen sex, and arguably makes it look "cool" and "popular" to be a teen and pregnant... so some controversy there. One time i counted the word "sex" being used 72 times.… Expand
  66. LauraM
    Dec 26, 2009
    1
    although i somehow find it somewhat interesting to watch about how they unrealistically deal with it, this show is a huge load of sh*t that im ashamed america got so low that they had to make a show about a teenager getting pregnant, and of course it's not her boyfriend's baby. and as said previously, i am insulted since i am a teenager, because we dont always talk about sex! although i somehow find it somewhat interesting to watch about how they unrealistically deal with it, this show is a huge load of sh*t that im ashamed america got so low that they had to make a show about a teenager getting pregnant, and of course it's not her boyfriend's baby. and as said previously, i am insulted since i am a teenager, because we dont always talk about sex! and her best friend Maddison seems very unsupportive and pessimistic, and not in her own right. Lauren isn't so bad, but could improve on the acting skills, for that matter, they can ALL improve on the acting skills! shocking. other characters seem to have such boring, dragged out, self absorbed storylines that it makes you wonder if they were just put in to pass the time. just an all-time shocking show that is extremely unrealistic and boring.… Expand
  67. EmilyK
    Feb 16, 2009
    3
    Extremely unrealistic. Teens do get pregnant and do have sex, but this show makes it seem as if that's everything that makes up high school. It makes a mockery out of teenagers. The writers are obviously assuming they know what goes on in high schools, but have no experience.
  68. saras
    Dec 16, 2009
    10
    It's a great show that families and teenagers can relate to anywhere. It's real and brutally ohnest...not like all those other fake shows.
  69. Sammy9432
    Jan 19, 2011
    0
    This show is probably the worst show I've ever seen. The acting is absolutely awful especially from the actor who plays Ricky. The show is supposed to be focusing on Amy and yet it is filled with worthless storylines that make no sense. The whole cheerleader Christian thing makes no sense to me and the sex craved Adrian is such an unrealistic character (yes there are girls like that but IThis show is probably the worst show I've ever seen. The acting is absolutely awful especially from the actor who plays Ricky. The show is supposed to be focusing on Amy and yet it is filled with worthless storylines that make no sense. The whole cheerleader Christian thing makes no sense to me and the sex craved Adrian is such an unrealistic character (yes there are girls like that but I never once experienced a girl that slutty in high school) Ben is just so annoying it's sickening he fell in love with Amy after one day and the whole saying I love you thing was so corny. I think the writers tried to make him be similar to JT Yorke from Degrassi but they failed miserably. Yes teen pregnancy does happen but this show is way to dramatic between the father having an affair with the mother of Adrian and then Ricky being sexually abused and blah blah blah. Sometimes less is more and this is way too much. All of these actors need to take more acting classes and new writers need to be hired for this show to have any hope.… Expand
  70. TheRealz
    Aug 8, 2011
    4
    I have to start by saying that the reason for such a low score is not the ridiculous plot, but instead, the acting. No one in this show can act to save their life, and everyone speaks in a monotone and sounds completely rehearsed, therefore the show loses all believability before I even watch the rest of the episode. Even though I suffered through a few episodes to get the feel of the showI have to start by saying that the reason for such a low score is not the ridiculous plot, but instead, the acting. No one in this show can act to save their life, and everyone speaks in a monotone and sounds completely rehearsed, therefore the show loses all believability before I even watch the rest of the episode. Even though I suffered through a few episodes to get the feel of the show I don't recommend anyone else does the same.… Expand
  71. LittleMama726
    Jan 2, 2012
    10
    At first I really liked the show, just because it was from ABC and all of my friends liked it. But now, I have realized what a stupid show it really is. In just one conversation, all they really talk about is sex. My friends still like it, and they are always asking me what season I'm on, and I just say that it's a dumb show and does not have anything to do with a real high school life.At first I really liked the show, just because it was from ABC and all of my friends liked it. But now, I have realized what a stupid show it really is. In just one conversation, all they really talk about is sex. My friends still like it, and they are always asking me what season I'm on, and I just say that it's a dumb show and does not have anything to do with a real high school life. They brag to each other about where they are in the seasons, it is so annoying! Kids should not be watching shows like this.… Expand
  72. TJD2
    Jun 11, 2012
    0
    horrible acting, poor dialogue, unrealistic scenarios. This pretty much DEFINES bad TV. Odd that my review for this must be at least 100 characters long, but whatever, I really only need to say that it's a horrible show that nobody should be subjected to due to the aforementioned reasons. How this is still on after 4 years I will never know. I only rated it a zero because I couldn't gohorrible acting, poor dialogue, unrealistic scenarios. This pretty much DEFINES bad TV. Odd that my review for this must be at least 100 characters long, but whatever, I really only need to say that it's a horrible show that nobody should be subjected to due to the aforementioned reasons. How this is still on after 4 years I will never know. I only rated it a zero because I couldn't go negative.… Expand
  73. emala
    Feb 18, 2013
    1
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Awful. Simply... awful. The actors are stiff, the plot is unbelievable and inaccurate, and the writers obviously know next to nothing about teenage life. Yes, teenagers have sex and talk about sex, but it's not nearly as prominent in teenage life as they make it out to be There is also the fact that the main character is supposed to be Sweet, Innocent, and Adorable, but she dresses like a slut, acts like a slut, and is completely unlikeable. Her boyfriend offers to marry her because she's pregnant even though it isn't his, but this DOESN'T HAPPEN in real life, especially to two freshman. There is so many more inaccuracies I could rant about, but I don't want to ruin more of this perfectly terrible show for whoever wants to watch it.… Expand
  74. TornadoCreator
    Apr 11, 2016
    7
    Teen drama is difficult to judge as many people expect far more from it that they get; they also criticise it for the very things that make it teen drama, such as the main characters making stupid decisions.

    This first season (at least according to the DVDs) is 11 episodes and focuses on the character of Amy getting pregnant and how it effects her friendships, home life and    Teen drama is difficult to judge as many people expect far more from it that they get; they also criticise it for the very things that make it teen drama, such as the main characters making stupid decisions.

    This first season (at least according to the DVDs) is 11 episodes and focuses on the character of Amy getting pregnant and how it effects her friendships, home life and relationships. The high school dynamics are very focused on sex, which is more realistic than some people want to admit but there's still a strong feeling of "Americana" about the way they act. Some characters feel extremely naive and act in extremely foolish ways, get upset over stupid things etc. but at the same point they're supposed to be 15, so it makes sense.

    The character of Ben is overly romantic, but in many ways I can relate as I remember being that kind of hopeless romantic myself at 16. Other characters like Adrian are extremely sexualised and comes across as somewhat unrealistic. Finally there's the religious characters, which may resonate with American culture, but in Europe come across almost comical as we just don't have that kind of all-consuming faith here.

    Still, for a simple teen drama, it all comes together well and kept my interest long that I wanted to keep watching. Characters have endearing qualities, even the ones who you should in theory dislike. If you enjoy soaps or teen dramas, this is certainly a decent one. It won't change your world, but then it's not meant to.    … Expand
  75. BiggestTVlover1
    Nov 25, 2016
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I have mix feelings about this show. For the beginning of her pregnancy Amy acted the way I expected a typical teen girl to act if pregnant. However as her pregnancy went on this went away besides the whole adoption thing. After the baby was born I hated Amy because of her territorial attitude over her son. He she needs to get over herself and realize its not only her baby. I hate that she makes most of the decision without Ricky's input. I also really hate what happened to Adrian and Ben's baby in season 3 or 4 and there was no reason for it, plus it was the only girl baby which I was looking forward too since I prefer girls. Also the name John is too old for a child in our time, even in 2008 not many children were named John anymore. Beside that I absolutely love the show, it makes me laugh constantly. I also love how ruined and messed up Amy's family is.… Expand

Awards & Rankings

86
#86 Best TV Season of 2008
9
#9 Most Discussed TV Season of 2008
35
#35 Most Shared TV Season of 2008

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
48

Mixed or average reviews - based on 15 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 15
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 15
  3. Negative: 6 out of 15
  1. New York Post
    Reviewed by: Linda Stasi
    75
    The show, like the old "90210" and "The O.C.," looks to be--from its premiere, at any rate--a top-flight series about a group of high school students, most of whom I liked immediately.
    Read full review
  2. Orlando Sentinel
    Reviewed by: Hal Boedeker
    80
    Secret Life feels a lot more authentic than many teen dramas.
    Read full review
  3. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
    Reviewed by: Rob Owen
    60
    It's far more realistic in scope and situations than "Gossip Girl," but there's such an earnestness and one-dimensionality to the characters that they seem a lot less believable.
    Read full review
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