The Secret Life of the American Teenager

The Secret Life of the American Teenager (often shortened to Secret Life) is an American teen drama television series created by Brenda Hampton. It aired on ABC Family from July 1, 2008, to June 3, 2013. The series features an ensemble cast including Shailene Woodley as Amy Juergens, a teenage girl who becomes pregnant. The series focuses on the relationships between Amy, her family and friends as they deal with her unexpected pregnancy and teen motherhood.

The series was notable for its frank discussions of teenage sexuality and its attempts to educate viewers about the consequences of sexual activity. However, its approach to these topics often sparked debate. While some praised the show for tackling issues like teen pregnancy and promoting open dialogue about sexual health, others criticized it for its didactic tone, unrealistic dialogue, and oversimplified portrayals of complex issues. Additionally, the series faced backlash for its heavy emphasis on abstinence and its portrayal of moral and religious perspectives, which some viewers and critics felt were overly judgmental or out of touch with the realities of teenage life.

Despite its polarizing reception, The Secret Life of the American Teenager was a ratings success for ABC Family, particularly in its early seasons. The series premiere drew 2.82 million viewers, making it one of the network's most-watched debuts at the time. The show consistently ranked as one of the top cable series among teens and young adults, with its second season premiere attracting 4.52 million viewers, a record high for the series.

However, as the series progressed, viewership began to decline. By its fifth and final season, the show averaged around 1.5 million viewers per episode, a significant drop from its earlier highs. In 2013, ABC Family announced that the fifth season would be its last, concluding the series with a two-hour finale that drew 3.3 million viewers.