The Suite Life of Zack and Cody

TV Show Review for Parents

Zack and Cody are 12-year-old twins who begin living the “suite” life when their mother gets a job singing at an upscale hotel in Boston. As part of the gig, she and the boys get to live at the hotel – a dream come true for Zack and Cody, but a nightmare at times for the hotel staff. Zack and Cody’s exploits are usually harmless and often well-intended, but that doesn’t keep them from getting into trouble. The show portrays the daily life and adventures of the boys and other characters involved with the hotel.

Also in the spotlight are the hotel manager, Mr. Moseby, and others who often have to deal with the twin’s antics. London, the hotel owner’s daughter adds plenty of drama to the show with her spoiled lifestyle; but her best friend Maddie, the candy store clerk, helps bring her back down to earth and lightens things up. Between the boys, the girls, and frequent interesting hotel guests, things are never boring in the Suite Life of Zack and Cody.

The Suite Life of Zack and Cody is a cute idea with storylines that are funny to kids, but the parallel storylines (of Zack and Cody and London and Maddie) which often intermingle cater to children who are maturing and becoming more interested in the drama of the preteen years.

Parents should know that, although Zack and Cody is aimed at kids and the themes are supposedly developed to be such, topics such as boy-girl relationships and other emerging young adult themes are presented. In one episode, Zack goes on a date to the hotel restaurant. In another, Maddie kisses a boy staying at the hotel. Also, London is often depressed over the lack of attention from her rich father and must deal with her feelings and her propensity to fix her problems by shopping.

The cocky twins often behave disrespectfully, although their behavior is usually not intended to be mean. While Zack and Cody don’t always make the right choices, they usually resolve their problems in a positive way by the end of the show. The danger is that viewing children may get the idea that the ends justify the means.

• Zack and Cody are often cocky and sometimes sarcastic. Does this behavior make them seem cool? How could they remain cool but still show respect for others? They are often very funny, but where should they draw the line between being funny and being rude?
• Zack and Cody get into a lot of trouble that, in real life, would result in serious consequences. In what ways is the TV show a complete fantasy? How would adults react if children behaved this way in the real world? What would the consequences of their actions be?