Amish in the City is a reality television series by UPN which involved five Amish teenagers being installed in a house in the Hollywood Hills to experience "English" culture.

The practice of allowing Amish teenagers to enjoy freedom from the Amish religious code is a normal part of the Rumspringa, or "running around" period before they decide whether to join the Amish church. Typically, nearly 90% of teenagers choose to be baptized as Amish, however in the conclusion of the show all of the teenagers choose to remain. Many accuse the show of giving the participants an unrealistic view of "English" (non-Amish) culture. The studio plans a later show to update the current status of the teenagers, especially since they are still able to change their decision and become baptized.

The concept was initially denounced by some for appearing to capitalize upon popular stereotypes about the Amish; later criticial reviews were more positive.

See also Rumspringa

External links

• UPN show homepage