My addiction to reality television can be traced back to the summer before my junior year of high school. MTV introduced audiences to a groundbreaking unscripted docuseries called The Real World.
The show was a first of its kind. Incorporating six twenty-something “strangers” picked (cast) to live in a house together in a popular US city.
The first season launched in New York City, followed by Los Angeles, but it was the the third season, in San Fransisco, where the show found its voice.
I was fixated on the Puck vs. Pedro conflict; not out yet myself––I was mesmerized by the courage and conviction that Pedro Zamora embodied.
Pedro was the voice of a new generation and network executives realized that they could make just as much money with a fraction of the budget.
The landscape of reality television evolved over the years and continued to exploit willing fame-seekers to whore themselves out on television (I’m still willing to be one of them).
Alas, I’ve finally reached my limit.
The turning point for me was when a New Jersey housewife turned inmate allowed cameras to document her downfall and hopeful rise back to fame.
The reality is that nobody really lives that reality––unless they’re a reality star.
I’m ready for a little truth in my life, in the form of Big Little Secrets.
Bye bye Bravolebrities.
Showing posts with label Reality TV. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Reality TV. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 14, 2017
Friday, July 10, 2015
The RealiTV Is...
As an artist who sacrificed almost every waking hour from third grade through high school to train, study, and perform––so that I could spend my life as a performer, I’m embarrassed to admit:
I am addicted to Reality TV.
It’s mindless and outrageous content that makes me feel a little bit better about my life.
Jeff and I have spent the last five years mocking Reality TV with our digital short parodies, but since the launch of my book we’ve been too busy to produce more content, so I think I’m going through full withdrawal.
During the past six months on tour I’ve consumed more trashy, scandalous, Kardashianesque crap than ever before.
And the RealiTV is I’m just disgusted with myself.
Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to have a conversation with Bethenny.
I am addicted to Reality TV.
It’s mindless and outrageous content that makes me feel a little bit better about my life.
Jeff and I have spent the last five years mocking Reality TV with our digital short parodies, but since the launch of my book we’ve been too busy to produce more content, so I think I’m going through full withdrawal.
During the past six months on tour I’ve consumed more trashy, scandalous, Kardashianesque crap than ever before.
And the RealiTV is I’m just disgusted with myself.
Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to have a conversation with Bethenny.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
That's A Wrap!
We wrapped on an awesome new project last night;
I love when dance and television collide,
Intelligent Latin women, full of passion and talent...
It doesn't hurt that they're all gorgeous!
We got what we needed from them,
Now the real work begins-
The most important part of the story:
Editing.
Ugh. It's a thankless job, but it has to get done.
Let's sell a show!
Monday, May 21, 2012
Signed, sealed and Delivering Pop Culture...
After a year of hard work, dedication and a lot of hustling...
I'm so proud to announce that Jeff and I, along with our company A Group Production have signed a deal with PorchLight Entertainment for our new half-hour pop culture variety parody show!
I'm so proud to announce that Jeff and I, along with our company A Group Production have signed a deal with PorchLight Entertainment for our new half-hour pop culture variety parody show!
Now the real journey to gold begins-
But if all goes well, we'll be coming to TV channel near you soon!
Friday, February 17, 2012
Reality Check!
Everyday a new Reality TV diva is born~
If you love to loath them as much as we do... you've got to check out our latest segment!
Each week our brilliant co-hosts Amy Claire and Ellen Buckley serve up a juicy slice of Reality TV gossip! This week it's everything fabulous about Basketball Wives, Bridezillas and of course...
The Kardashians!
We encourage all of you to: "Stop Feeling Guilty About Your Guilty Pleasure!"©
If you love to loath them as much as we do... you've got to check out our latest segment!
Each week our brilliant co-hosts Amy Claire and Ellen Buckley serve up a juicy slice of Reality TV gossip! This week it's everything fabulous about Basketball Wives, Bridezillas and of course...
The Kardashians!
We encourage all of you to: "Stop Feeling Guilty About Your Guilty Pleasure!"©
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
I Love Joan Rivers
God bless Joan Rivers.
I love that at 78 years old- she's smoking weed and jumping into hot tubs fully clothed!
On her refreshingly "unscripted" reality show, JOAN & MELISSA: Joan Knows Best? Joan is unafraid to push the boundaries of what an audience expects to see from a grandma. I also respect that she'll do anything for a great rating.
Joan knows the industry better than half the men that run it.
How appropriate to engage multiple generations in the heated hot topic of medical marijuana. I admire her ability to do it so honestly- with a tongue and cheek humor and witty resolve.
Joan uses her ol' skool skills to spark success. It's a highly contagious and outlandish show that actually makes me enjoy Melissa Rivers.
Clearly, Joan knows best!
I love that at 78 years old- she's smoking weed and jumping into hot tubs fully clothed!
On her refreshingly "unscripted" reality show, JOAN & MELISSA: Joan Knows Best? Joan is unafraid to push the boundaries of what an audience expects to see from a grandma. I also respect that she'll do anything for a great rating.
Joan knows the industry better than half the men that run it.
How appropriate to engage multiple generations in the heated hot topic of medical marijuana. I admire her ability to do it so honestly- with a tongue and cheek humor and witty resolve.
Joan uses her ol' skool skills to spark success. It's a highly contagious and outlandish show that actually makes me enjoy Melissa Rivers.
Clearly, Joan knows best!
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Sucked In...
The Rachel Zoe Project is hideous.
The over-the-top drama over clothing and fashion is ludicrous...
It's not like she's saving a life-
She's just styling Jennifer Garner to look like a woman.
Granted, that is a miraculous act!
Still her theatrics are outrageous...
I cannot get enough of it!
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Question?
Does anyone else find it strange that I started to cry and experience honest feelings of sadness for Holly Madison after her "surprise" visit to the Playboy Mansion to congratulate "Hef" and Crystal on their engagement while taping an episode of her spin-off reality TV show; Holly's World?
I guess it's because I'm still super emotional from watching last nights episode of The Real Housewives of Atlanta's season finale...
It just breaks my heart to see NeNe Leakes without her "happy."
Monday, October 18, 2010
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
So You Want to be a "Somebody?"
“Everybody that have money, ya know, just can’t open up a business and call it a day… You have to plant seeds and let it grow…”
Wiser words have never been uttered, at least not on reality television! Thanks to the ultra eccentric and super FabUless, style guru Dwight Eubanks from the “Real Housewives of Atlanta.” In regard to several of the reality divas “childhood dreams” come true (only because they have excessive amounts of their husband and or “Big Papa’s" money) and now a cable network show encouraging them to play dress up and pretend they had any other fantasy beside being rich and famous however they could- most of the women on the show, by marring an NBA or NFL players and spending all of their hard earned cash.
Originally the idea of this show was a fun slice into the elite women of Orange County… Now however, and in the grand tradition of Reality TV (already made celebrities included) these shows serve as a launch pad- off into a world of celebrity that we watch and laugh, not because the subject is so talented an artist or gifted in an area of expertise… Mainly, they are so desperate to have their name be known, that they would do and say anything that garners attention (with the exception of actually being exceptional at ANYTHING else.)
Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate shows like “Top Chef”, “Project Runway”, and “Top Design” for the simple fact that almost always, everyone competing has talent and has worked at making their dream happen.
The women on “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” are playing the part of a Hollywood star, and have nothing to back it up. They parade around in designer gowns, raunchy fake hair (Kim), excessive amounts of: make-up and jewelry and describe themselves as “Classy” while dropping the F-bomb in every conversation. Using words like “hater” to describe someone who doesn’t share similar taste, style and support of their un-talent.
I have two very dear friends, both of whom are from Atlanta. I would describe both as smart, strong, talented, graceful and yes… classy. I don’t think they have ever acted or behaved like these “elite” women on the show. Moreover, they both left Atlanta to pursue their goals and dreams… Both now have successful careers as artists. They made it without a husband, without any money and not because they wore designer gowns and went to “star-studded” celebrity fundraisers to “network…”
Two of the women on the show in particular have sparked my interest: Kim and Sheree. Kim, a separated mother of two has always wanted to be a country singer. Just don’t ask her to sing… because she can’t. Not that you can’t make it as a singer just for that small detail, many famous singers (some with Grammys) can’t sing too… The difference is they ALL tried. Kim sees no need to listen to a voice coach about technique… “That won’t matter when I’m in the booth…” It’s sad really, because she has fallen victim to the idea that you don’t have to have passion, talent or determination… just money. True, money will aid in looking the part and put you on a map but it sure as hell won’t keep you there.
Then there is Sheree, a would be fashion designer, who doesn’t sketch her own work, can’t sew and holds a viewing party for her new collection- minus the collection… None of the clothes were tailored to her satisfaction, which begs the question… Why? Maybe because the only contribution you made to “your” collection, was deciding whom to invite to this momentous event where even you decided to wear another designer’s gown- which speaks volumes for your work! At best, you are the most put together gal on the show, and could maybe be a stylist… Maybe!
So you want to be a “somebody?” I get it… I do. You have a dream or goal and believe it is your destiny to fulfill it? You have a special gift or talent that keeps you up at night hoping and praying that you’ll have a chance to achieve it. Or at least die trying…
But I ask:
What about hard work? What about taking classes to develop your craft and passion? What about eating Top Roman everyday for a year because that was all you could afford? What about crying in the stock room at your day job, because you’re so tired and still have to work four more hours before running to an audition? What about having only two days to come up with the $200.oo you’re shy on next months rent?
I know not every aspiring artist has had to work as hard, endure the same struggles or face the same obstacles. I also believe that there is no “right” way to accomplish any goal or dream.
However, I maintain that every single actor, dancer, musician, writer, director, painter, and designer… has shared in the dedication, hard work, rejection, and baby steps toward taking their passion from a childhood dream to a reality… Instead of sitting around praying for a reality TV show to come along and suddenly make them something they’re not! No amount of money in the world can give you talent… Money only offers the façade…
Please take note of the picture to the left for an example of the facade... Sheree to the left and Kim (fake hair and all...) to the right. Kim you can try to dress up like Dolly Parton... but you'll never have her class, talent or hair! This picture is courtesy of a fan photog and the world wide web.
Wiser words have never been uttered, at least not on reality television! Thanks to the ultra eccentric and super FabUless, style guru Dwight Eubanks from the “Real Housewives of Atlanta.” In regard to several of the reality divas “childhood dreams” come true (only because they have excessive amounts of their husband and or “Big Papa’s" money) and now a cable network show encouraging them to play dress up and pretend they had any other fantasy beside being rich and famous however they could- most of the women on the show, by marring an NBA or NFL players and spending all of their hard earned cash.
Originally the idea of this show was a fun slice into the elite women of Orange County… Now however, and in the grand tradition of Reality TV (already made celebrities included) these shows serve as a launch pad- off into a world of celebrity that we watch and laugh, not because the subject is so talented an artist or gifted in an area of expertise… Mainly, they are so desperate to have their name be known, that they would do and say anything that garners attention (with the exception of actually being exceptional at ANYTHING else.)
Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate shows like “Top Chef”, “Project Runway”, and “Top Design” for the simple fact that almost always, everyone competing has talent and has worked at making their dream happen.
The women on “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” are playing the part of a Hollywood star, and have nothing to back it up. They parade around in designer gowns, raunchy fake hair (Kim), excessive amounts of: make-up and jewelry and describe themselves as “Classy” while dropping the F-bomb in every conversation. Using words like “hater” to describe someone who doesn’t share similar taste, style and support of their un-talent.
I have two very dear friends, both of whom are from Atlanta. I would describe both as smart, strong, talented, graceful and yes… classy. I don’t think they have ever acted or behaved like these “elite” women on the show. Moreover, they both left Atlanta to pursue their goals and dreams… Both now have successful careers as artists. They made it without a husband, without any money and not because they wore designer gowns and went to “star-studded” celebrity fundraisers to “network…”
Two of the women on the show in particular have sparked my interest: Kim and Sheree. Kim, a separated mother of two has always wanted to be a country singer. Just don’t ask her to sing… because she can’t. Not that you can’t make it as a singer just for that small detail, many famous singers (some with Grammys) can’t sing too… The difference is they ALL tried. Kim sees no need to listen to a voice coach about technique… “That won’t matter when I’m in the booth…” It’s sad really, because she has fallen victim to the idea that you don’t have to have passion, talent or determination… just money. True, money will aid in looking the part and put you on a map but it sure as hell won’t keep you there.
Then there is Sheree, a would be fashion designer, who doesn’t sketch her own work, can’t sew and holds a viewing party for her new collection- minus the collection… None of the clothes were tailored to her satisfaction, which begs the question… Why? Maybe because the only contribution you made to “your” collection, was deciding whom to invite to this momentous event where even you decided to wear another designer’s gown- which speaks volumes for your work! At best, you are the most put together gal on the show, and could maybe be a stylist… Maybe!
So you want to be a “somebody?” I get it… I do. You have a dream or goal and believe it is your destiny to fulfill it? You have a special gift or talent that keeps you up at night hoping and praying that you’ll have a chance to achieve it. Or at least die trying…
But I ask:
What about hard work? What about taking classes to develop your craft and passion? What about eating Top Roman everyday for a year because that was all you could afford? What about crying in the stock room at your day job, because you’re so tired and still have to work four more hours before running to an audition? What about having only two days to come up with the $200.oo you’re shy on next months rent?
I know not every aspiring artist has had to work as hard, endure the same struggles or face the same obstacles. I also believe that there is no “right” way to accomplish any goal or dream.
However, I maintain that every single actor, dancer, musician, writer, director, painter, and designer… has shared in the dedication, hard work, rejection, and baby steps toward taking their passion from a childhood dream to a reality… Instead of sitting around praying for a reality TV show to come along and suddenly make them something they’re not! No amount of money in the world can give you talent… Money only offers the façade…
Please take note of the picture to the left for an example of the facade... Sheree to the left and Kim (fake hair and all...) to the right. Kim you can try to dress up like Dolly Parton... but you'll never have her class, talent or hair! This picture is courtesy of a fan photog and the world wide web.
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