Welcome To Your 2009 Reality!

Hey Fans!

Happy New Year -

Just returning from the holiday break and there is a ton of 'stuff' to address.
I have thousands of emails (Not that I read any of them - who has time?!), voice messages, text messages, Twitters to catch up (I call them Tweets), Myspace friends, Blog postings, Skype calls, YouTube video updates, evites, meeting requests and whatever other form of communication we choose to use in this modern age of Social Media!

So, today let us get right down to business....

There are a number of new shows, which are apparently all debuting this week - Ha, welcome back! Here is what we have for your television viewing enjoyment (Pithy commentary included from Yours Truly):

• Countdown to the Crown (TLC) -- Season Underway --
  I like the idea of this show, and in fact had a similar idea about 2 years prior. However, I just cannot determine why I am largely not interested.
  
  
• Confessions of a Teen Idol (Vh1) -- Season Underway --
  I had seen the debut episode of this show. Really, I only recognized 2 out of the what 6 former Teen Idols? Eric Nies from the Grind (MTV) and Jamie Walters from 90210. My initial thought was positive - Vh1 has stepped up and debuted a show that is worthy of the time spent.
  
  
• Superstars of Dance (NBC) -- Season Underway--
  Well, I am a little 'Danced Out' at the moment. Let me know if you catch this show.
  
  
• The Bachelor 13 (ABC) January 5
  Oh, here we are setting ourselves up for failure again - will this be the season where the 'Love' is actually meaningful and lasting? Hopefuls unite!
  
  
• True Beauty (ABC) January 5
  Tyra, is that you again?
  
  
• The Biggest Loser 6 (NBC) January 6
  Have you seen Celebrity Fit Club? It would be a blast to merge the two shows together, "The Biggest Loser Celebrity Fit Club" - I am just full of ideas (-?).
  
  
• Homeland Security USA (ABC) January 6
  Yeah, sounds political. Let me guess, more inconvenience and missed flights over a tube of toothpaste at the airport?!
  
  
• 13: Fear is Real (The CW) January 7
  Fine, a Horror Reality Show...Fear Factor meets Saw meets Blair Witch Project - is that not what most so called "Horror" movies marketed to young adults consist of?
  
  
• The Real World Brooklyn (MTV) January 7
  I like RW, but all of the episodes are beginning to become predictable with the same predictable casting of the same predictable characters.
  
  
• The Exterminators (A&E) January 7
  Got Pests? Do they have to be bugs, snakes or rats?
  

Let The TV Show War Begin
Amazingly, you will notice there is more than one show debuting on the same night - nothing like a game of competition between the networks.

The winter season is truly one of the most important times for viewership and audience metrics, as this season largely determines the pace of the entire year. Get ready for Fox to join fray with the return of American Idol, later this month. Should be good fun.

Alright, I have said more than enough...Let me know which shows you decide to watch and we will discuss later. Happy viewing!

Your Winter 2008 - 2009 TV Schedule

Hi Friends!

Well, first thank you for your responses to my last Blog concerning last week's big debut of The Secret Millionaire (Which really could be you some day), happy to have provided you with some inspiration and glimmer of the possibilities, 'For every cloud, there is silver lining', Babe.

I bring more good news...During our last visit I made mention of my review of the new schedule - looks pretty good thus far, and we have a plethora of new and returning entertainment for your viewing pleasure.

It has been said on previous occasion, Networks love it when I talk about their shows and I love to talk about them...Apparently, I have been lavished as "Voice of Influence" -Ah, well I am certainly no Oprah (Yet, that is...), but I certainly appreciate the intention of the sentiment.

So having said, today's topic is dedicated to your refrigerator list for the remainder of 2008 through the first of 2009.

Ready? Let's begin:

• Intervention (A&E) December 15
• Momma’s Boys (NBC) December 16
• Bromance (MTV) December 29
• The City (MTV) December 29
  
  The 2009 Rundown
  
• Countdown to the Crown (TLC) January 2
  
• Superstar Dancers of the World (NBC) January 4
• The Bachelor 13 (ABC) January 5
• True Beauty (ABC) January 5
• The Biggest Loser 6 (NBC) January 6
• Homeland Security USA (ABC) January 6
  
• 13: Fear is Real (The CW) January 7
• The Real World Brooklyn (MTV) January 7
  
• The Exterminators (A&E) January 7
• American Idol 8 (Fox) January 13
• Hell’s Kitchen 5 (Fox) January 29
• Jockeys (Animal Planet) February 6
• Wingman (Fine Living) February 10
• Survivor 18 (CBS) February 12
• The Amazing Race 14 (CBS) February 15
• High School Reunion 5 (TV Land) February 18
• Celebrity Apprentice 2 (NBC) March 1
  
• Dancing with the Stars 8 (ABC) March 9
  

On the Slate, but not scheduled:

• Project Runway (Lifetime) January 2009
• Gone Country 3 (CMT) January 2009
• Running in Heels (Style) March 2009
• Confessions of a Teen Idol (Vh1)
• The Cougar (TV Land)
• Creature (Animal Planet)
• Dance Your Ass Off (Oxygen)
  
• Ghost Hunters (Sci Fi)
• How’d You Get So Rich? (TV Land)
  
• Jingles (CBS)
• Untitled Larry Birkhead series (E!)
• Make Me a Supermodel 2 (Bravo)
  
• Make My Day (TV Land)
• The Phone (MTV)
  

Of course, the list continues with a number of additional items that have not yet been scheduled, such as Shark Taggers (NBC), Toddlers and Tiaras (TLC) and the uncertain, but long awaited When Women Rule The World (Fox).

However for our time today, I think we have more than enough to keep us watching (At least for the next 3 or 4 months) and you can be assured that we will have much conversation over the next few weeks - we will never be remiss in not having anything to discuss. Talk soon!

MTV Music Awards, Still About The Music?

Hey Guys!

Well, thank you for your many comments on last week's post of my hilarious (As you say) analysis of the political landscape - I am thrilled that you enjoyed the spirited escapade and look forward to many more light hearted, entertaining discussions - political in nature.

Ready for another great week?

Students have returned back to school, the weather is cooling down, and the political season continues to heat (We only have another 8 weeks of political hyperbole), and Sports Fans - this is your time as you have MLB, WNBA, and regular season NFL action (The men in my life are rejoicing with glee, my special one in particular who loves everything and all things sports).

Speaking of return...

MTV's Video Music Awards

Last Sunday, MTV aired it's 25th Annual Video Music Awards show with the likes of the Jonas Brothers (More on this later), Rihanna, Pink, Miley Cyrus, Katy Perry and other performers Du jour.

Although I was not intending to watch the live (tape delayed) broadcast of the show, we happened to have arrived home just in time at the exact start of the show. As mentioned within previous posts, I do not usually view programs in real-time thanks to TIVO. However this may have been a special occasion.

The Real Music
Just as you, I literally grew up watching MTV. The small town in which I lived, did not really have progressive radio (Meaning, most of the music was largely one Adult/Pop station, one Rock station, and one or two News stations).

The stations in my town were programmed by older adults, who really had absolutely NO clue as to how to appeal to a younger audience - it was clearly obvious. The Program Directors were primarily interested in appealing to advertisers, rather than an audience of young adults.

Having said, I learned different genres and diversity of music all by watching MTV.

My favorites as a kid were largely derived from the popular videos on MTV - Wham, George Michael, Duran Duran, Madonna, Michael Jackson, Prince, Culture Club, Pet Shop Boys, Billy Idol, LL Cool J, The Police, Devo, Run DMC and a ton of "One Hit" wonders. Back then, MTV was our 'Pilot of Cool' and could not do anything wrong for our young and ever changing youthful ideas...

Quite frankly, if you were a musician and did not have a video on MTV, you simply did not exist. The same is true even more today and times have changed right along with musical style and genres.

25 Years of Music on Television?

During the performances of the show, I smiled nearly the entire time during the short period I had viewed the program. My amusement was due to the fact that most of the performances were live representations of videos - of which I had seen on another network (Vh1).

As you may recall just as many others, I have commented on the fact that despite what was once the past cornerstone of programming, MTV does not really play videos in today's landscape.

Similar to my comment above about Program Director control over airplay for the sake of advertisers, is it possible that today's youth just do not demand or consume video content or perhaps the corporate version of MTV is experiencing the same advertiser pressure.

MTV is now associated with shows: The Hills, Busted, Rob & Big (Love these guys!), Cribs (My FAVORITE show), My Super Sweet 16, and the provactive documentary series True Life.

Moreover, videos are now largely broadcast on sister station Vh1 - Which is rather coincidental as now as an adult, I watch Vh1 in the morning specifically to view music videos. So you see, even some 25 years later, MTV is still in my life - just in a different form...Amazing!

Quite frankly, MTV (Originally calling itself Music Television) has since relinquished its branding aspirations to just MTV - the point, being Music Television may require you to actually have music related programming, right? With the revised moniker, it is short, sweet and does not require qualification for an entirely new generation of MTV heads.

Perhaps, the awards show should be moved to Vh1 and termed, "The Vh1 Music Video Awards", since Vh1 is actually airing regular music video content (During the morning block segments, of course)...

*The above "Moonman" is provided by MTV Networks, Viacom, Inc."

The Fall 2008 TV Schedule

Welcome Back!

Another end to another great week?

Now that summer is finally beginning to wind down, I am not displeased. I have more than enjoyed the 'Warmth', now it is time to return to cute hats, trendy coats, sweaters and real shoes - finally! For some reason, I have my greatest fashion inspiration during the summer months for fall wearing.

With all of this wishful thinking and good cheer, it's time for our favorites both old and new to return to the small screen.

Coming to a Television Near You...
Having said, I am anxiously awaiting the return of America's Next Top Model (Although, not sure why as I will claim a loss of interest after the first episode), but never mind that...I am confident something within the line-up will garner your TV watching attention.

Below is your full Fall 2008 TV schedule, compliments of Yours Truly and as well, your favorite networks. Again, as always, please feel free to copy, duplicate, disperse, re-broadcast, and tape to your refrigerator.

As follows:

• America’s Toughest Jobs (NBC) 8/25/08
• High School Stories (MTV) 8/25/08
• My Super Sweet 16 Presents: Exiled (MTV) 8/25/08
• Janice Dickinson’s Modeling Agency (Oxygen) 8/26/08
• Grizzly Man Diaries (Discovery) 8/29/08
  
  
• America’s Next Top Model 11 (CW) 9/03/08
• Top Design 2 (Bravo) 9/3/08
• Kitchen Nightmares (Fox) 9/04/08
• Dogtown (National Geographic) 9/05/08
• The Locator (WE) 9/06/08
• Rachel Zoe Project (Bravo) 9/08/08
• Hole in the Wall (Fox) 9/11/08
• Solo: Lost at Sea (National Geographic) 9/15/08
• The Biggest Loser 6: Families (NBC) 9/16/08
• Survivor Gabon (CBS) 9/18/08
• In Harm’s Way (CW) 9/21/08
• Dancing with the Stars 7 (ABC) 9/22/08
• Opportunity Knocks (ABC) 9/23/08
• Extreme Makeover: Home Edition (ABC) 9/28/08
• The Amazing Race 13 (CBS) 9/28/08
• World’s Toughest Fixes (National Geographic) 9/28/08
  
  
• Tim Gunn’s Guide to Style 2 (Bravo) 10/02/08
• Supernanny (ABC)10/03/08
• Wife Swap (ABC) 10/03/08
• Real Housewives of Atlanta (Bravo) 10/07/08
• Gimme My Reality Show! (Fox Reality) 10/11/08
• Stylista (CW) 10/29/08
  

Other shows set for fall debut, but not yet on the schedule:

• Top Chef (Bravo)
• Project Runway (Lifetime)
• Rock of Love: Charm School (Vh1)
• Scream Queens (Vh1)

Ah, as you can see with such a line-up of programming, the good news is that we will have literally hours and hours of conversation and much to discuss in greater detail as the shows unfold this season - great news all around!

Our Summer of Reality

Here we are...

Welcome friends, we are in the middle of yet another week on the dry arid wasteland (aka Los Angeles) - hot enough for you? The weather is certainly delivering more sunshine and heat than one could have hoped and I will finally admit to being 'a little warm' in this pre-summer season.

Let The Season Begin.

While everyone is busy viewing the season ending episodes of the network ratings behemoths, America's Next Top Model, The Bachelor, Dancing with the Stars (Congrats to Kristi Yamaguchi), and American Idol - I am simply too busy (Meaning, I refuse to make time) to sit down to watch regular television, when all of the 'great' entertainment is on the web (Gasp!).

Having said, we can all commend the networks for trailing into the Internet space with carefully selected clips (Rather than full-episode) - all we need are the highlights. However, the cable networks have the right idea and a clear vision of the inevitable future of distribution, as they are presenting a much better offering of original web based content AND complimentary full-episodes.

On The Web

Admittedly, I watch more shows on the web, than on regular television...As peculiar as this may sound, I am all about 'Control'. Oh, read this now networks and cable companies of America, I need to watch what I want, when it is convenient for my schedule!

What upwardly mobile person has time to sit around waiting for a scheduled program to air, and provide viewership at the same day and time for 13 weeks? Of course, the measure of convenience would simply be to just make the show available on the web and it will somehow, miraculously make my schedule.

Speaking of schedules...

The summer officially begins this week and we should look ahead with giddy excitement to this summer of reality - Alas, there are plenty of season ending episodes to watch from your lovely air conditioned (I hope) abode.

So as promised, let us proceed to the line-up (Again, you are encouraged to fax, email, and re-broadcast this list - I grant you temporary reprint rights):

• The Bachelorette 4 (ABC) May 19
  
• So You Think You Can Dance 4 (FOX) May 22
  
• Last Comic Standing 6 (NBC) May 22
  
• Bridezillas (WE), June 1
  
• The Next Food Network Star 4 (Food Network) June 1
  
• The Mole 3 (ABC) June 2
  
• Legally Blonde The Musical (MTV) June 2
  
• 30 Days (FX) June 3
  
• She’s Got the Look (TVLand) June 4
  
• Design Star 3 (HGTV) June 8
  
• Master of Dance (TLC) June 8
  
• Ice Road Truckers (History) June 8
  
• Nashville Star 6 (NBC) June 9
  
• Celebrity Circus (NBC) June 11
  
• Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List (Bravo) June 12
  
• America’s Got Talent 3 (NBC) June 17
  
• Flipping Out (Bravo) June 17
  
• Baby Borrowers (NBC) June 25
  
• Shear Genius 2 (Bravo) June 25
  
• Dance Machine (ABC) June 27
  
• Greatest American Dog (CBS) July 10
  
• Big Brother 10 (CBS) July 13
  
• I Love Money (Vh1) July 13
  
• High School Musical: Get in the Picture (ABC) July 20
  
• Jingles (-Working Title) (CBS) July 27
  
• How to Look Good Naked (Lifetime) July (Re-scheduled)
  
• My Super Sweet 16 Presents: Exiled (MTV) August 25

So, there you have it - Your Summer Reality TV schedule for 2008. Some of the shows you know, by way of this what I would like to believe is an informative, entertaining, witty and insightful Blog. Rest assured, looking at the above list, we will have much to keep us talking for a long, long, long time this season.

As they say, Check your local listings....

*The image above is the cover of TV Guide Magazine featuring Dancing with Stars, provided by Gemstar-TV Guide International, Inc.

Reality Show CATFIGHTS!

Why, Hello!

It is a beautiful Sunday afternoon in Tinseltown - the sun is out (Of course, as always), the birds are chirping and the ocean is roaring - all around it is a lovely day.

With all of this perceived peace and tranquility abound, I cannot help but think about what else...Fighting!

The topic of today's muse was going to be on the subject of Project Runway (As I had eluded in last week's discussion) - Here is the sixty-second overview:

For those of you who may not be aware, there is an apparent legal battle transpiring between Bravo (Parent company NBC Universal) and show producers, The Weinstein Co. (Bob and Harvey) claiming that they ignored the contract, as it was announced earlier that Project Runway was moving to Lifetime. Speculation is that Lifetime will pay a significantly higher licensing fee than Bravo (The network's biggest show to date).

Granted the above is a battle between real world 'Titans' (Via Attorneys), but aligns well with the subject. Now, on to the subject "Du Jour": Fighting!

Drama is Dramatic Entertainment

Whether it be in on the job, in a courtroom or in a mansion (For 13 weeks, no doubt), fighting is always a constant area of contention between contestants, litigants, competitors, co-workers, all of the before mentioned have been or are current conditions of a reality show.

However, I am sure you may have noticed there is a disturbingly increasing number of reality shows that contain FIGHTING as a storyline. In fact, it is becoming mandatory of most competitive reality shows to place two contentious characters together for the purpose of dramatic 'Entertainment' value.

Even more of a concern is that characters are usually female. Quite frankly, most females do not fight in real life (True, words may be exchanged in heated manner, but it is not common for fisticuffs to be involved).

Having said, I barely ever raise my voice (Unless I am completely disgusted with the person, I generally associate yelling with unattractive grotesquery) and would never dream of raising a hand to anyone; my choice is to usually walk away and ignore them all together (Ah, for this is far more effective and your point of repulsion is made without excessive words).

Furthermore, I can only remember one time in the 6Th grade getting into an altercation (Yelling and pushing) with my best friend and neighbor while waiting for the school bus one morning. The situation (Just as most arguments) was over nothing really important (I had defected from the clique and chose to hang-out with the 'non-popular', it was not well received) - it was truly one of the most ridiculous things and several years later, we had a great laugh about the incident.

Real or Just TV?

I am sure that we would both agree that fighting has been going on since the beginning of time. Obviously. However, has fighting on your favorite reality show been going on since their inception or are we seeing a disappointing increase? My guess is the latter.

For example, shows that present a dating or job scenario usually have one or two characters at odds. Most reality shows are called living social experiments. So, what does that say about us?

Shows such as what I call, "Anything of Love" in the title on a certain cable network, have had a number of castings for over-the-top, in-your-face type of personalities placed in unnatural conditions (Living in a mansion for a number weeks, competing for a questionable prize) for the purpose of dramatic entertainment.

Although you would expect to see such raucous behavior in cable reality shows, we are now viewing this contaminated behavior spilling over into mainstream network reality shows, including America's Next Top Model, Search for The Next Pussycat Doll, and this week's episode of ABC's The Bachelor had also featured a scuttle between two female characters (I could say more, however, I do not wish to even DIGNIFY the details of the loud quarrel).

Do people really like to see reality show in-fighting? Does it really help the ratings? Many agree that the re-emergence of this format of general orchestrated discourse is undoubtedly becoming quite tiresome and clearly contrived.

Back to The Basics

Yes, it is true that reality shows are microcosms of real life (For this statement is largely subject to debate) and that disagreements occur at all stages of human life.

However, my challenge for these shows is to always present conflict resolution. Many of these programs are missing a tremendous opportunity to educate and inform viewers that conflicts are not only unnecessary, ill conceived miscommunication, but can as well be resolved and laughed about for many years.

*The above photo of Project Runway starring Heidi Klum and Tim Gunn is the property of The Weinstein Company, LLC.

Dating Advice...Coming To A TV Near You!

I was just thinking of you!

This past week has been another amazing week: Grammy Awards, NAACP Awards also last week.

A friend had phoned to tell me that she could not speak because it's 'Award Season' - which was more than fine as the Writer's Strike officially ended this week (Which incidentally cost us about $3.2 Billion) and I have way to much work in which to return....

A Time For Love
Amidst the 'Awards' there was an ode to love, Valentine's Day. Not to get side tracked so early in this discussion, but do you know that it has been said that Valentine's Day was a mere fabrication induced by the Greeting Card industry (capitalized by Joyce C. Hall, founder of Hallmark)? Further, it is said that Valentine's Day is the second largest day for Greeting Card sales.

Anyway, as I blissfully enjoyed the day with my loved one, I began contemplation of the new plethora of dating related shows. My business partner is well aware of my interests in dating shows and I speak to him quite often about numerous outlandish (Or, so he claims) ideas for new dating related television fare.

In my opinion, people will NEVER tire of watching dating shows - Anyone up for a return of Love Connection 2008?

Not Your Average Love...
Which brings me to mention that dating on television is going through a rapid evolution.

As I have knowingly mentioned on several previous occasions, many ailed serial shows (I do not need to mention names, however if they have season after season - they are ailed serials) need the help of a professional matchmaker. Low and behold, my advice was accepted and the entire new offering of dating shows are about Matchmakers!

It's All In The Match Making
Aside from the usual serials of love-lorn looking for the loveless (Joe Millionaire, The Bachelor, For Love or Money, Age of Love, Flavor of Love, Rock of Love, Et Al...), consciousness and rationale are beginning to give way to a new type of format - the Matchmaker.

Quite frankly, the bottom line is that it is possible the general 'Cattle Call' of talent and forcing them into an unnatural living situation (In a mansion for 13 weeks no less - wink), is not only becoming tiresome to watch for the general audience at large, but it just does not work (Ah, maybe that is the idea).

Enter the New Breed of Love: Taking inventory of all the recent good-intentioned match/love advice related shows, we have:

• Can't Get A Date (Vh1) (Show can now be seen on Logo)
  
• The Pick-Up Artist (Vh1)
  
• Confessions of a Matchmaker (A&E)
  
• Millionaire Matchmaker (Bravo)
  
• Matched in Manhattan (Lifetime)

And, that could be just the beginning, if any of the above carry on to second seasons (Keep in mind each of the above within the list are fairly new and additional seasons have yet to be picked-up by the network).

Further, what is amazing is that each show 'touts' an expert in which every currently single person should listen.

The all new shows attempt to expertly pair soul-mate-seeking singles who are unable to find a partner through old-fashioned methods such as frequenting bars, online dating sites and going on blind dates arranged by friends (Does anyone still allow this drastic measure?).

My question is do these 'Love' experts actually take their own advice? Only one of the above mentioned shows includes an amalgamated expert (Matched in Manhattan).

Moreover, the expert advice bestowed on the starry-eyed appears to be common sense (As mum would say, "Common sense is not so common"). The experts make the effort appear effortless (Get a haircut and some new clothes, hold a smile for 5 seconds and do not talk about yourself too much on the first date).

Quite frankly, if dating were as easy as the expert advice, I think more people would be in relationships - I do not believe that anyone would choose to remain single and alone for an extended period of time...Perhaps, there will be fewer single people after watching these shows?

*The photo above "Millionaire Matchmaker starring Patti Stanger", is property of Bravo / NBC Universal

Your Reality TV Schedule for 2008

Hello, hello, hello...

As we have officially returned back to regularly scheduled programming (Amidst the horrific writer's strike - which continues to halt production here in Los Angeles and now apparently around the entire world). Friends, neighbors and countrymen/women - Stop the MADNESS!

Where's The Promised Hollywood Ending?
Before we begin today's escape, I wish to quickly mention just as friends at the Weinstein Company, we are also in the process of making our own deals with independent writers - if all of the independents joined together, we can force an end to this debacle. We need a Hollywood Ending.

More Reality on The Schedule
Now, on to a more hopeful subject is the new and returning reality offerings for 2008.

I am often asked, do I know about shows before the air on television - um...YEAH! Sometimes I hear about shows a year or more in advance and by the time it is aired I am usually thinking, "Did we not already see that show?".

The second most frequently asked question is "Do I actually watch reality shows?". Again, yes. When I make time, I am usually watching a reality show or a movie when I REALLY create time.

So, let's see what we will be watching this season (Yes, you may print this list and tape to the refrigerator):

• American Idol 7 (FOX), Jan. 15
  
• My Fair Brady…Maybe Baby? (VH1), Jan. 20
  
• Millionaire Matchmaker (Bravo), Jan. 22
  
• Gauntlet III (MTV), Jan. 23
  
• Survivor 16 (CBS), Feb. 7
  
• Big Brother 9 (CBS), Feb. 12
  
• Baby Borrowers (NBC), Feb. 18
  
• Pussycat Dolls 2: Girlicious (CW), Feb. 18


• America’s Next Top Model 10 (CW), Feb. 20
  
• Oprah’s Big Give (ABC), March 2


• When Women Rule the World (FOX), March 3


• Dancing with the Stars 5 (ABC), March 17
  
• The Bachelor 12 (ABC), March 17
  
• Top Chef 4 (Bravo), March 19


• Hell’s Kitchen 4 (FOX), April 1
  
• The Real World Hollywood (MTV), May 21

Not to worry, there are many more reality shows beyond May 21st and I will provide witty analysis (aka 'Comment') on each of the shows as we near closer to the broadcast date.

We can still look forward to the debut of Randy Jackson's Best Dance Crew (Formerly known as World Moves), Farmer Wants a Wife, and My Dad is Better Than Your Dad (Return to 5th grade - this is not part of the title, however the statement should be)...

As well, all of this reality fare around Superbowl 500 (Not really, I am just feeling largely despondent that my Seattle is no longer in contention for the title, for yet another year!).

Wait There's More...
Having said, future Blogs are guaranteed forthcoming on the new shows, such as Millionaire Matchmaker (Bayonne Entertainment), Baby Borrower's (Love Productions), Oprah's Big Give (Produced by Harpo Productions), When Women Rule the World (Rocket Science Labs) - which promises to be not only realistic (IMHO), but as well, entertaining - Can you say, "Man Servant?" - this should be good fun!

The good news is that from the appearance of the above schedule, you should have continuous reality entertainment each and every night of the week (Or, at least that is the idea)...

Favorite Things From 2007...

Happy New Year!

Are you as excited as I am about the new year?

It feels great to be back in action and although I do have literally thousands of emails from various people, beloved friends, groups, agents, managers, celebrities, production companies, business associates and the rest of the country - Further, I also have a mountain of work in which to delegate - but, let's have some fun...

On to another year...Before we go, we should stop and reminisce about a few things that made 2007 special. While on vacation, I began thinking about Oprah's "Favorite things" and thought, Oprah has a list of favorite things - I should too! Except, the only difference is that I cannot give you each one under your seat...

So, here are my "Favorite things" for 2007 (Without specific order):

Favorite Movie: Transformers. Sure, it was loud, bombastic, over the top, and really without purpose - I think that was the idea...More important, I had saved up 2 years worth of 'in theater movie-watching' for this one and although I did not pay, it was worth every penny.

Favorite Reality Show: This is tough, considering that they are all my favorite.

However, I regularly Tivo'd and enjoyed Kimora Lee Simmons: Life In The Fab Lane (Stick Figure Productions). The show proves that a former runway model and former wife of a music mogul can continue on in life after retirement to run a billion dollar trendy fashion enterprise, shop for the most exclusive real estate in this town (Despite having a multi-acre mansion in New York) and be a devoted and loving mother all in the same - now that's 'Fabulosity' (Ah, one can only aspire to such a bling filled existence).

As well as, Flipping Out (Authentic Entertainment)(Jeff Lewis and I have soo much in common - just ask my people).

Of course, friends know that I also really like the show Best Week Ever (Vh1), more current events rather than reality, however I always manage to laugh out loud at least once during the program.

Lastly, honorable mention would be my friends Rob & Big (Mtv) - love these guys.

Favorite Website: Wikipedia, of course. Second place goes to a little friendly game called TV Bigshot (http://www.tvbigshot.com/).

Favorite YouTube Clip: There are a small handful and my favorite last year had to have been Miss Teen USA - Ms. South Carolina - because I have had many, many days just like this... (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lj3iNxZ8Dww).

Favorite Original Series (Scripted): Bionic Woman (NBC). Alright, just as you I had very high hopes for the re-imagined series from yesteryear.

Yeah, I remember watching the original when I was just a young toddler and was horrified to the point where I could not sleep from the episode with Bigfoot and those Fembots without face plates (Not the cheeky Austin Powers version). Perhaps the 2007 version would have been more interesting had they included the unmasked Fembots as well?

Favorite Gift: Anything/Everything Chocolate (Thank you Jay - I will be thinking of you when I am at the Gym).

Favorite Train Wreck: Hey Paula!, I mean Paula "The Gift" Abdul. Well, I admit that I was only able to watch a few episodes of the show when it had originally aired last spring. Ah, and people wonder why celebrities are delusional, paranoid and inept in real world *sigh*.

Favorite Reality Show Villain: Really, this one was tie between Tom Sizemore (Shooting Sizemore) and Danny Bonaduce (Breaking Bonaduce). I always say, there is no worse enemy than yourself.

Least Favorite Reality Show: Yeah, that would be anything with the word "Love" in the title. I do not need to name the specific shows, you know to which ones I am referring.

Favorite Friend: You. Thanks for hanging out with me on this blog.

Here's to a GREAT 2008!

XOXO

Now Say Cheese...

The other day, I was reminded that it has been some time since I have written about Vh1.

Perhaps the reason is because I have yet to see or hear of anything new or original in terms of programming on the network (Bravo has been eating cable network lunch as of late).

However in my admitted recent apathy, I did indeed overlook one new show that is of definite interest: The Shot!

Back In Fashion...

According to friends at Vh1: From the producer of America's Next Top Model and Pussycat Dolls Presents: The Search for the Next Doll, The Shot (Formerly called, Click, but not be confused with the movie of the same name) will give 10 amateur photographers the chance to live out their wildest fantasies in pursuit of their ultimate dream:
to become the next great fashion photographer.

Ah, sounds interesting already!

It's All About My Favorite Subject...

Really when you think about the recent plethora of cable network reality shows, the most successful have been surrounding the subject of fashion (Excluding America's Next Top Model, as this show airs on 'non-cable major' The CW).

Of course, it is reasonable to conclude that Fashion and Modeling are closely related, if not one in the same. Further, one cannot exist without the other - someone has to actually be able to WEAR the 'clothes' of the designers and the models must have the 'clothes' of the designers to wear - quite the catch 22.

Quite frankly, America's Next Top Model (The greatest show ever!) produced by Ken Mok of 10 by 10 Entertainment, has been the catalyst inspiration of many of the new shows on the air today.

With a quick look at recent inventory we have:

Queer Eye (For the Straight Guy), Project Runway, Top Design (Remember this one?), The Cut (Yes, even Tommy Hilfiger had a reality show), A Model Life (The Petra Nemcova Project), The Agency, The Janice Dickenson Modeling Agency, Pageant Place, Tim Gunn's Guide to Style, America's Most Smartest Model, and many others.

Returning To Our Show

The cast of The Shot will be guided by world-renowned fashion photographer Russell James.

Now although a fairly common name at first glance, Russell James is one of THE leading celebrity photographers with images that you have seen prominently in high-gloss fashion magazines such as Vogue, W, Elle and many others.

Just Cuddle With The Siberian Tiger

During the 60 minute show, the team will embark on a series of exotic and obstacle laden photo shoots with supermodels, industry professionals, and yes a real Siberian tiger (You know how cute domesticated wild animals can be...).

I have been informed, the worldly purpose of the related perilous tasks are meant to challenge their creativity, talent, drive and expose their individual weaknesses (Some call this a day at the office), while vying for the crown and jewel of "Next great fashion photographer ".

The Return of The Bunk Beds

Incidentally, the hopefuls will live and work together in a loft in downtown Los Angeles (One would hope the same loft previously used by the producer's other show, America's Next Top Model).

A-ha, what did I tell you? You have read this written time and time again within this Blog - Reality TV competitions are all about people living together with roughly 10-15 others (From diverse backgrounds, the more over-the-top the better) in a mansion/loft (For 13 weeks)! Soon enough, you will be able to recite within your sleep.

My hope is that by teaching you these glaringly obvious common reality show ingredients, that you will all someday become reality show producers - as they say, just remember me in your acceptance speech!

The Shot is scheduled for Sunday, November 4TH at 10 PM on Vh1.

Are You Smarter Than a Model?

You will soon find out as friends at Vh1 are working on a new show called, America's Most Smartest Model.

According to our people at Vh1: "This new reality competition series brings together fourteen models, (7 men, 7 women) all of whom think they are the perfect combination of beauty and brains. "

By the end of the competition, only one model will prove that they are more than just another pretty face and take home a $100,000 prize and the coveted title of "America's Most Smartest Model."

Most Smartest?

Oh sure, you might be as smart as a 10 year old - 5th grader, able to add 1+1 faster than anyone, handily calculate 50% off in the department store, solve the puzzles on Wheel of Fortune with a couple of vowels, and know of at least one major sporting event - Fine, you have impressed me, but are you smarter than a model?

Who knew that being a model required relevant intelligence and who knew that one could be "Most Smartest"?

Right away the title of the show becomes your first challenge, no that's not a trick question. However it is not a misprint of grammatically challenged morons, the marketing prowess of Vh1 purposefully titled the show "Most Smartest" - and if you noticed, I would say that you are "More Smarter-er".

Quick, What's 1+1 and Strike a Pose?

Within the 10-episodes of the show, the vacuous 'himbos' and 'bimbos' will face challenges that put both their overall intelligence and beauty to the test.

Upon first hearing of the show, I thought it sounded like a good idea because I often wondered the ratio of brains vs. beauty (?).

Then after further contemplation, became concern of "Gee, what kind of tasks do you even begin to have to prove a model's intelligence?"

We need to put some actual thought into this one...Tasks in other shows are clearly and obviously related to the aspiring job:

• America's Next Top Model has modeling related tasks,
  
• Design Star has design related tasks,
  
• American Idol has singing related tasks,
  
• So You Think You Can Dance - yes, dancing,
  
• The Apprentice has business related tasks,
  
• Top Chef has cooking related tasks.
  

Now, I am not a professional (or an amateur for that matter) model, but my friend plays one on TV...You can easily conclude the point that I am trying to make here...

In this type of show, you just cannot have models trying to solve math equations, answer history or geometry questions, demonstrate the use of a slide rule, or even come close to matching wits with Ms. Teen South Carolina - watching the beautiful attempt to problem solve would be somewhat like watching paint dry: Fun at first, but very, very slow going.

Careful Where You Swing That Hairdryer
Of course, thanks to the tremendous success of America's Next Top Model, we now have more, more and more model shows in which to look forward.

Why I can immediately think of two or three other modeling competition shows besides America's Next Top Model and America's Most Smartest Model.

Others on the slate include: Make Me Supermodel, Over 35 Model Search, and Janice Dickenson Modeling Agency will also soon be returning. Mind you this is only a brief tangent, as there are many non-competing model related shows also planned. The beautiful are turning out in force!

Yippee.

"There has to be more to life than just being really, really, really, ridiculously good looking." (- Zoolander).

Ah, but there is: "Now, you have to be really, really, really, ridiculously smart." (- Yours Truly).

Your Fall Reality Shows

Welcome fans of reality TV to your fall reality show guide...

Yes, it's official, we are now careening into much anticipated season of fresh new reality shows to finish 2007. Of course, there will be a glorious return of your old favorites, and as well a few new editions for your viewing pleasure.

Hold On...
Before we get to the line-up of new shows, within the next week there will also be conclusion of the following current programs on the air:

America's Next Producer (TV Guide), Big Brother 8 (CBS), Design Star (HGTV), Fat March (ABC), Flipping Out (Bravo), Last Comic Standing (NBC), Mission: Man Band (Vh1), Nascar in Primetime (ABC), Top Chef (Bravo), Ty Murray's Celebrity Bull Riding Competition (CMT), WWE Smackdown Season Finale (CW), Who Wants To Be A Superhero (Sci-Fi).

Out With The Old, In With The New
So, here are the goodies and latest offerings in which we may look forward to watching, during the month of September:

• Merv Griffin's Crosswords (September 10) (check your local listings)
• TMZ (September 10) (check your local listings)
• The Tyra Banks Show (September 10) (check your local listings)
• What Perez Says: Perez Hilton (September 11 at 9 PM) (Vh1)
• The Biggest Loser (September 11 at 8 PM) (NBC)
• Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team (September 14 at 8 PM) (CMT)
• Kitchen Nightmares (September 13 at 9 PM) (Fox)
• Nashville (September 14 at 9 PM) (Fox)
• iVillage Live (September 17) (check your local listings)
• Inside The Actors Studio (September 17 at 8 PM) (Bravo)
• The Singing Bee (September 17 at 9 PM) (NBC)
• Beauty and the Geek (September 18 at 8 PM) (CW)
• America's Next Top Model (September 19 at 8 PM) (CW)
• Kid Nation (September 19 at 8 PM) (CBS)
• Survivor: China (September 20 at 8 PM) (CBS)
• Dancing with the Stars (September 24 at 8 PM) (ABC)
• The Bachelor (September 24 at 9:30 PM) (ABC)
• Ultimate Fighter 6 (September 26 at 10 PM) (Spike)
• Extreme Makeover: Home Edition (September 30 at 8 PM) (ABC)
  

More, More Reality...
Of notable mention, there are a few new shows that have already began the season:

American Princess (WE), Life of Ryan (MTV), Newport Harbor (MTV), The Contender 3 (ESPN), The Real World Sydney (MTV), The Hills (MTV), and Tim Gunn’s Guide to Style (Bravo).

Are you overwhelmed yet?
Right about now, you are probably wondering (Or, running from the room screaming), just how are you going to watch all of these Reality-Fantastic shows - I hear this comment all the time (Alright, so I made up the "Fantastic" part)...Have you considered investing in a TIVO device?

Yes, there are a number of new, used, borrowed, continuing, and never ending plethora of reality fare. However not to worry, most likely you will see the repeat (a.k.a. 'weekend marathon') of the cable network shows (Vh1, Bravo, MTV).

Quite frankly, that is what I L-O-V-E about the cable networks - the programs are always accessible! The cable networks definitely have the right idea and continue to gain market share because of it....(Oops, I am saying too much again - this post is beginning to get political).

So you see, the good news is that there can never be too many reality shows on television, and I along with fellow producers are on a tireless mission to create even more shows for your entertainment.

Where's My Favorite Show?
With the exception of a few mentions (Merv, Harvey, Tyra, and Perez), this post is largely focused on reality - of course, there are many other new shows set to debut as well, such as It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia (FX), and the highly anticipated Bionic Woman (NBC).

As for your other favorites, we are still awaiting schedule confirmation for the return of Don Trump's The Apprentice: Celebrity Edition (NBC), Project Runway (Bravo), and American Idol (Fox).

Stick around, there are even more new 'mind-blowing' shows scheduled for premiere during the month of October...

Love, Reality Style

Just when you thought you could not find a date on your own - leave it to your friendly reality show to 'hook-you-up'.

Last week, I was notified that ABC had made a final selection for next season's The Bachelor (Gorgeous Austinite, Brad Womack). The on-going dating show phenom, now currently in it's 11th season, continues the quest to match the love-lorn.

Which once again proves a point - PEOPLE LOVE DATING SHOWS! Although my business partners believe there is not an interest in dating shows, I continue to maintain a strong interest in dating game shows and millions of faithful viewers are in agreement.

A Date With a Dating Show
Quite frankly, the interest in dating shows began way back when I was in grade school. Each day after school, I would watch Love Connection (Eric Lieber Productions).

Each day I would get out of school at 3:35 and the show aired at 3:30 (very inconvenient) and with such a tight schedule, there was no time for hanging-out after school lollygagging, I had an important show to watch so time was of the essence (yeah, even back then).

With departure, travel time, and traffic I would be lucky to catch the last 5 minutes of the show and when my after school schedule became too demanding, I began programming the VCR (All by myself -remember those things? TIVO did not exist back in the 80's!).

Never Out of Style
I would like to believe that I am always in touch, on time, on subject, and in-step with the pulse of the popular community 'in the know'. For the most part, I have been able to visualize and profit on social trends before they become well known (Starbucks, Monster.com, Amazon and Netflix to name a few), largely due to my diversified interests in everyone and everything.

Even though clothes, hairstyles, social behavior and trends may change with each generation, one thing for certain is that dating will never go out of style.

The shows of "Love"

If you look at the history of television (over the past 40 years), you will notice there have always been dating game shows on the air featuring bachelors and bachelorettes looking to find love.

The Newlywed Game, Dating Game, Love Connection, Change of Heart...In fact, there have been so many dating game shows on the air that this blog would need to be several pages and posts too long.

Remarkably, dating game shows continue to evolve with the culture as a social re-invention and you will always see the current style and social attitude reflected on a dating show.

Welcome to Reality Dating
In modern dating, it's all about finding your love on a nationally televised reality show (?!). In other words, what you could not accomplish in real life, you can accomplish on a TV show (insert sarcasm here) - that's the pitch.

By today's standard of human matchmaking we have reality shows to thank (or blame, depending on whom you ask) for such a superficial and robust interest in the competitive style of 'elimination' dating.

Rather than have everything all wrapped up neatly in 30 minutes with the happy couple off to Copenhagen (or some other out of the mainstream destination), current TV dating fare more commonly involves one choosing from a group of opposites.

What would normally take the average person, a single date to determine the 'likability' of someone, reality dating takes us through sometimes a suspenseful and seemingly endless process of one-by-one elimination over the course of 13 weeks.

Of course, all of the suspense and drama is for your benefit and you will begin to recognize the same format through most recent shows:

• Who Wants To Marry a Multi-Millionaire? (FOX), Joe Millionaire (FOX), Mr. Personality (FOX), Age of Love (ABC), The Bachelor (ABC), The Bachelorette (ABC), Average Joe (NBC), For Love or Money (NBC), Temptation Island (CBS), Boy Meets Boy (BRAVO), Flavor of Love (1,2,3) (VH1), I Love New York (1,2) (VH1), Rock of Love (VH1)
  
  Related: Blind Date (Syndication), 5th Wheel (Syndication), Next (MTV), Can't Get A Date (VH1), Confessions of a Matchmaker (A&E)
  

You Too Can Become Famous
Did you know that back in the early days of TV dating show history a few now well known celebrities (Tom Selleck, Brad Pitt, Harrison Ford, Goldie Hawn, Kurt Russell) had once appeared as dating show contestants?

A-ha, but how many contestants from today's style of 13 -week dating game elimination and skulduggery competitions are going to continue on into a successful career? For this remains to be seen...

What Love?
Does anyone really expect to find true genuine love on a reality dating show? More importantly, does anyone expect the reality relationship to last?

Alas, the sum of the equation has been revealed...In today's reality dating, it's all about 'persona' and the chance to be on TV - not so much about the end result as dating shows of the past.

Perhaps these contestants realize that it's nothing more than a glorified talent competition and they are in full cognition of the twistful possibility: The last person not chosen, is in a good position to receive the spin-off show and the chance to choose their own suitor.

So win or lose, it does not matter and at the very least, just appearing on a reality dating show can launch one into an additional 15 minutes of fame...

The New Ugly Reality

Thought that would get your attention.

So, a friend calls me up today and informs me of new show called, "America The Ugly". I thought, hmm now that sounds like something of interest...

It seems that friends over at VH1 are developing a new reality show, inspired by the show Ugly Betty (ABC). For those in the know, the Golden Globe winner Ugly Betty is a farcical comedic drama (Based on the "Yo Soy Betty La Fea" a Colombian Telenovela) about a slightly zoftig ingenue who ends up working at a top fashion magazine in New York, with all of the pungent ambiance of "The Devil Wears Prada".

Sounds delicious.

As you know, I LOVE VH1 and have expressed the sentiment a number of times and the network has an amazing knack with spin-offs. America The Ugly is more or less a spin-off of The Agency that aired on VH1 last spring.

America The Beautiful
The show will reportedly follow several unattractive women as they enter the glamorous world of fashion and modeling while trying to cope with the sometimes hideous nature of the business, and we know the hideous nature of the modeling business thanks to Tyra Banks and her endless crusade to bring the world of modeling to the masses.

If it's a go, America The Ugly will reportedly star Becky Southwick, a former cranky and always irritated executive/ booking agent at Wilhelmina Modeling Agency (Featured on The Agency) and who is now with Trump Model Management (Yes, it appears that Don started an agency - relax, it's run by actual models, not Trump).

Although the show has not been officially 'green lit' a pilot has already been filmed and it will be up to VH1 to place the order.

Now, I am not a betting kind of woman (My risks are calculated - smile), you have a reality show with a dramatic personality from another already familiar show and Trump's name - Not sure what's left to think about on this one....

I say let's work on a new title, and I give it a "Go!"

The White Rapper Show...

Alright, you knew I was going to say something about this program...It just took me a little longer than expected as I had to actually sit down and watch a few episodes (don't tell my friends at Vh1).

So The White Rapper (Wrapper) show, produced by Egotrip known also for shows such as Race-O-Rama and TV Illest Minority Moments and NOT to be confused with "Rap School" (I added that last part), is hosted by Michael "MC Serch" Berrin, a former member of the pioneering white rap group 3rd Bass, the imaginative program features 12 white contestants who will compete in a series of challenges to test their rap skills and ability to mesh with black culture (According to AllHipHop.com).

Using words such as, "pioneering", "imaginative, "series of challenges to test their rap skills"..."mesh with black culture"...My first reaction was, "Huh?!" Who wrote this synopsis? Is this a pitch or a political speech?

Honestly, despite it's somewhat 'cheesy' need to continuously associate Rap with a particular race of people (Hence the over use of the word "White"), I would certainly give credit to "imaginative" and quite frankly, the show is highly under rated. From the few episodes that I have seen, this show has some of the best and well conceived 'tasks' that are truly clever and more relevant than most other contestant reality programs currently on television. The Producers really did their homework on every detail of the show.

On a side note, the Producers should bring in the Beastie Boys (The real legends) - who I have been listening to since I was a baby (Grade school). The Beastie Boys never made a big deal about the fact that they are nice Jewish boys - they just rocked the mic!

To that end and without getting political, the conclusion is that Rap is neither black or white - it's just a form of MUSIC. "The Rapper Show" - Lesson learned.

Why I Love Vh1 - Today Only

It's a little late (Valentine's Day), but Last night I was watching Vh1 and apparently there was a marathon of the show "Behind the Music". Although a departure from my usual Reality fare, I love this show!

Behind the Music is one of the best programs on television and it's a documentary. Last night's episode: Nick Lachey - I now know everything about Nick. Following the show was another doc about New Edition, again I had the same revelation.

I am trying to convince Vh1 to make the episodes available via On Demand, but that's another subject...