Yes, that's right. As you could probably tell from the overall lack of posts the past few months, I've over committed myself, and something has to go. Sadly, since this is the writing that I don't get paid for, it has to be this blog. It's a shame - I've really enjoyed writing it, and hearing from so many of you. I'll still be watching a healthy dose of reality tv - just because I'm not blogging about it doesn't mean I'm not still an addict! And hopefully as things in my schedule clear up (or when someone FINALLY starts paying me to blog about tv!) I can come back to it. Thanks so much for reading these past few years.
--Mara
Friday, October 19, 2007
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Dancing Shocker
I don't even know what to say about the results on Dancing With the Stars. I'm flabbergasted. It should have been Mark or Wayne going home. But somehow, Mark escaped the bottom two, and Wayne moved on. And we had to say goodbye to Albert (a hottie and a good dancer). What an absolute bummer.
Another Blue Team Loss
Another interesting and a bit controversial episode of The Biggest Loser. And I'm really torn about all of it.
First up was the temptation challenge. I hated it. Ok, it wasn't the challenge itself I hated - I actually kind of liked the fact that it was the trainers who had to decide to eat cupcakes or not. What I hated was the message the trainers sent to their teams. First, we all know that it would not have had any impact on the weigh-in for the trainers to eat a cupcake. So why they couldn't take that calorie hit for their team is a little puzzling. I also didn't like the message the trainers sent by not eating, especially Bob (who apparently loves cupcakes). Sure, it's important to stick to your diet and not give in to temptation. But isn't it also important to show that you can have a little treat now and then and still be a healthy person? I wish that that was the message the trainers chose to send to their teams.
The challenge was also an interesting sort of situation. I really question the reward. First, does anyone really think that the immunity prize was determined before the challenge itself? It seemed like the producers left themselves open to do what they wanted by not revealing the prize until the weigh-in. Contestants weigh in before the weigh in we see on tv...the big scale, actually, is just a prop. They weigh in on a real scale, but aren't told the results (the results, however, are video-taped, and the producers know...that's how they decide what order to weigh them in at). So they knew just how much the red team lost the weigh in by before they revealed the immunity. I wonder that if the red team was closer if the prize would have been different. And, of course, there's the the challenge itself. Why on earth did Bob let his team not really participate? He's got to be frustrated with his team and himself.
So, with the immunity, the red team stayed and the blue team lost again. And no surprise, Patty was the next to go. I think she lasted an extra week because of the immunity anyways. Can't wait to see what the new twist is...
First up was the temptation challenge. I hated it. Ok, it wasn't the challenge itself I hated - I actually kind of liked the fact that it was the trainers who had to decide to eat cupcakes or not. What I hated was the message the trainers sent to their teams. First, we all know that it would not have had any impact on the weigh-in for the trainers to eat a cupcake. So why they couldn't take that calorie hit for their team is a little puzzling. I also didn't like the message the trainers sent by not eating, especially Bob (who apparently loves cupcakes). Sure, it's important to stick to your diet and not give in to temptation. But isn't it also important to show that you can have a little treat now and then and still be a healthy person? I wish that that was the message the trainers chose to send to their teams.
The challenge was also an interesting sort of situation. I really question the reward. First, does anyone really think that the immunity prize was determined before the challenge itself? It seemed like the producers left themselves open to do what they wanted by not revealing the prize until the weigh-in. Contestants weigh in before the weigh in we see on tv...the big scale, actually, is just a prop. They weigh in on a real scale, but aren't told the results (the results, however, are video-taped, and the producers know...that's how they decide what order to weigh them in at). So they knew just how much the red team lost the weigh in by before they revealed the immunity. I wonder that if the red team was closer if the prize would have been different. And, of course, there's the the challenge itself. Why on earth did Bob let his team not really participate? He's got to be frustrated with his team and himself.
So, with the immunity, the red team stayed and the blue team lost again. And no surprise, Patty was the next to go. I think she lasted an extra week because of the immunity anyways. Can't wait to see what the new twist is...
Monday, October 08, 2007
Dates Start on the Bachelor
Brad started the group dates on The Bachelor this week, and even though I still am enjoying it, the show seems to have jumped the shark. Enough of these girls have seen enough of the seasons that they are very savvy about how it works and how to get themselves enough roses to get past the group dates. Interesting.
After all the hype about someone getting hurt, it turned out to be not as big of a deal as we thought. Poor Michele fell down the stairs, and ended up being eliminated because of it. This, I think, is where Brad gets some points from me. Last season the bachelor kept the hurt girl on for weeks as she played the sympathy card over and over and over. Brad? Cut her immediately. Sure, they may not have clicked anyways (for all we know, she was the last one to get a rose initially, and he was planning on cutting her all along), but out she goes.
Some thoughts on the other girls...McCarten (and what kind of name is McCarten?) made the bold move to kiss Brad - she's got to be at home loving Brad saying to the camera about how it wasn't very good. Lovely. Solisa is a "Christian", but apparently the type of Christian that does body shots and streaks. Apparently she is also the type of Christian that Brad likes. And what is the deal with Jenni bringing her modeling portfolio? I have two theories, neither of which is that she's just using the show to get exposure - I mean, who would she be showing it to? First, she might be telling the truth that she just wanted to share it because it means a lot to her. But I think it's even more likely that it was something she had before the show started, and the producers encouraged her to bring it. Yes, I'm suggesting a Bachelor-conspiracy-theory. Those pesky producers - they knew exactly what would happen when the other girls found it. Well played.
No loss with the girls that went home...still too early to have favorites or to know if Brad is making good choices.
After all the hype about someone getting hurt, it turned out to be not as big of a deal as we thought. Poor Michele fell down the stairs, and ended up being eliminated because of it. This, I think, is where Brad gets some points from me. Last season the bachelor kept the hurt girl on for weeks as she played the sympathy card over and over and over. Brad? Cut her immediately. Sure, they may not have clicked anyways (for all we know, she was the last one to get a rose initially, and he was planning on cutting her all along), but out she goes.
Some thoughts on the other girls...McCarten (and what kind of name is McCarten?) made the bold move to kiss Brad - she's got to be at home loving Brad saying to the camera about how it wasn't very good. Lovely. Solisa is a "Christian", but apparently the type of Christian that does body shots and streaks. Apparently she is also the type of Christian that Brad likes. And what is the deal with Jenni bringing her modeling portfolio? I have two theories, neither of which is that she's just using the show to get exposure - I mean, who would she be showing it to? First, she might be telling the truth that she just wanted to share it because it means a lot to her. But I think it's even more likely that it was something she had before the show started, and the producers encouraged her to bring it. Yes, I'm suggesting a Bachelor-conspiracy-theory. Those pesky producers - they knew exactly what would happen when the other girls found it. Well played.
No loss with the girls that went home...still too early to have favorites or to know if Brad is making good choices.
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Second Week of Dancing
The second week of dancing on Dancing With the Stars was last night, and it was a good week again.
Sabrina was amazing again this week. She is pouring so much of herself into her dancing - she has to be considered a favorite to win. Also amazing was Helio - he looks like he's having so much fun when he dances, and it translated into his score. I also really liked Mel - her score should have been higher, especially after seeing some of the other dancers.
The middle of the pack all danced well. I like Albert, and even though he wasn't as good as last week, dedicating his performance to his grandfather was really touching. Jennie was good too, even with the fall at the end (and why didn't anyone run out there with an ice pack for her?). Cameron and Jane were also pretty good.
Then there's Marie. She was ok, but not nearly as good as her scores show. I don't know why everyone is so enamored with her. Floyd was also ok - better than last week, but still not great.
And then there's the bottom two. Wayne and Mark were just awful. At least Wayne has age as an excuse. His quick step was painful to watch - really more of a slow step. And Mark? I am such a Mark Cuban fan, but the man has no sense of rhythm whatsoever. Did you see him trying to clap along with the music in the opening introductions? Not good. His dance was another one that was painful to watch. The worst part was that even though it was horrible, he thought he was amazing. Got to love a healthy ego.
I'm fairly confident that Mark & Wayne will be the bottom two tonight, with Mark going home. I think that Wayne just has more fans than Mark. But they should both go home after that!
Sabrina was amazing again this week. She is pouring so much of herself into her dancing - she has to be considered a favorite to win. Also amazing was Helio - he looks like he's having so much fun when he dances, and it translated into his score. I also really liked Mel - her score should have been higher, especially after seeing some of the other dancers.
The middle of the pack all danced well. I like Albert, and even though he wasn't as good as last week, dedicating his performance to his grandfather was really touching. Jennie was good too, even with the fall at the end (and why didn't anyone run out there with an ice pack for her?). Cameron and Jane were also pretty good.
Then there's Marie. She was ok, but not nearly as good as her scores show. I don't know why everyone is so enamored with her. Floyd was also ok - better than last week, but still not great.
And then there's the bottom two. Wayne and Mark were just awful. At least Wayne has age as an excuse. His quick step was painful to watch - really more of a slow step. And Mark? I am such a Mark Cuban fan, but the man has no sense of rhythm whatsoever. Did you see him trying to clap along with the music in the opening introductions? Not good. His dance was another one that was painful to watch. The worst part was that even though it was horrible, he thought he was amazing. Got to love a healthy ego.
I'm fairly confident that Mark & Wayne will be the bottom two tonight, with Mark going home. I think that Wayne just has more fans than Mark. But they should both go home after that!
Wrestler is Down and Out
Another good episode of Survivor: China this week. Sorry for how disjointed this is, but some thoughts...
LOVED the reward challenge. Why have no other survivors ever thought to pull off clothing during a wrestling challenge? There have been other challenges where that strategy would have worked wonders. And how embarrassing is it to be a professional wrestler and not smoke your competition in a wrestling challenge? Sort of like river-guide Kelly losing the rowing challenge in season 1 to Gervase (who had never been on the water).
Not sure about the kidnapping twist. I did, though, love how Jaime played the idol clue. Very smart to seek out the weakest player to give it to (and the player that she probably figures would flip to her side, then, in a merge situation). And Leslie, Leslie, Leslie. Why would you share the clue with Todd? How dumb are you? Oh wait, you're the same person who is not religious even though you have a personal relationship with Jesus and are lost in China because you don't have your bible.
Loving both Todd and Amanda so far. They are smart players, and are playing a great game. And bringing Aaron into their alliance was great too. Considering how their tribe is steamrolling in the challenges, I think they have to be the favorites right now for the final three.
Glad to see Ashley go, though I agree with her that Dave will be next to join her in the losers lounge. Way to go.
LOVED the reward challenge. Why have no other survivors ever thought to pull off clothing during a wrestling challenge? There have been other challenges where that strategy would have worked wonders. And how embarrassing is it to be a professional wrestler and not smoke your competition in a wrestling challenge? Sort of like river-guide Kelly losing the rowing challenge in season 1 to Gervase (who had never been on the water).
Not sure about the kidnapping twist. I did, though, love how Jaime played the idol clue. Very smart to seek out the weakest player to give it to (and the player that she probably figures would flip to her side, then, in a merge situation). And Leslie, Leslie, Leslie. Why would you share the clue with Todd? How dumb are you? Oh wait, you're the same person who is not religious even though you have a personal relationship with Jesus and are lost in China because you don't have your bible.
Loving both Todd and Amanda so far. They are smart players, and are playing a great game. And bringing Aaron into their alliance was great too. Considering how their tribe is steamrolling in the challenges, I think they have to be the favorites right now for the final three.
Glad to see Ashley go, though I agree with her that Dave will be next to join her in the losers lounge. Way to go.
Kid Nation...
...yes, I watched again. I don't know why. There's something intriguing about it. Very strange.
What is the deal with the weather where the kids are? I know it was filmed over the summer (so that the kids weren't missing school) and that it was filmed in New Mexico (where, apparently, they have the least stringent child labor laws in the United States). So why is it so cold that the water is freezing? And why did they give the kids a pump that would freeze? That just seems cruel.
So nobody left, nobody froze to death, and our beauty-queen Taylor continues to play the "I'm the littlest and I'm a beauty queen" card. Great television all around.
What is the deal with the weather where the kids are? I know it was filmed over the summer (so that the kids weren't missing school) and that it was filmed in New Mexico (where, apparently, they have the least stringent child labor laws in the United States). So why is it so cold that the water is freezing? And why did they give the kids a pump that would freeze? That just seems cruel.
So nobody left, nobody froze to death, and our beauty-queen Taylor continues to play the "I'm the littlest and I'm a beauty queen" card. Great television all around.
First Dancer Goes Home
First, let me apologize for the delay in posts. It's time for post-season baseball, and with the run-up to the playoffs (and the playoffs starting Wednesday), I'm watching nearly everything on tivo a few days late. But really, the best reality tv out there is watching the Red Sox. Really.
So on to Dancing With the Stars. I loved the results show. Not because of Dolly Parton; It's hard for me to say anything bad about her after I learned about the amazing foundation she set up to bring books to kids. But I loved Savion Glover's performance, and am excited that they seem to be setting us up to bring in a new professional dancer each week. So exciting. And while I was bummed that Mark Cuban was in the bottom two (vote for him people!!), no big surprise that Josie was the first to go. She wasn't very good, though I think that with some more time she could have gotten better. But who knows.
So on to Dancing With the Stars. I loved the results show. Not because of Dolly Parton; It's hard for me to say anything bad about her after I learned about the amazing foundation she set up to bring books to kids. But I loved Savion Glover's performance, and am excited that they seem to be setting us up to bring in a new professional dancer each week. So exciting. And while I was bummed that Mark Cuban was in the bottom two (vote for him people!!), no big surprise that Josie was the first to go. She wasn't very good, though I think that with some more time she could have gotten better. But who knows.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Blue Team Down One
It had to happen - for the first time I can remember, the numbers on the scale on The Biggest Loser were "normal." No 15 pound weeks...just lots of 2s and 3s...the type of weight-loss a normal person would have in a week. And for some reason, I'm happy. I've always really liked the show, partly because they are showing that you can (and should) lose weight through diet and exercise instead of gimmicks and surgery. But it was always a little disheartening that they expected so much in such a short period of time. Now, we may see huge numbers again next week. But I'm not sure. There has been talk that there was so much criticism last season about contestants taking extreme measures to win (namely dehydration and not eating) that they might be monitoring them closer this season. I have also read that there are several players with health conditions that are not being shared on-screen. But I am a fan of healthy numbers all around.
The episode itself was good. I loved the challenges. Any challenge like the reward challenge where it is more mental than physical rocks. And Patty messed up the strategy - such good tv to watch. I also found it interesting that she would have been the biggest loser on her team regardless of the 3-pound pass. Makes you think that having those extra calories (which sped up her metabolism) might have been a good thing after all. I also loved the second challenge, where they raced against kids. How funny was it to see a kindergartener dash by them? Classic.
Lots of people online are upset that Jerry was voted off. But not me. I think it was a good move. He clearly had the ability to lose the rest of the weight at home. He got hurt, and couldn't compete in the challenge (and would likely be unable to work out as hard for awhile). And he showed the ability to pull a huge number. Get rid of him while you have the chance. Yes, he seemed like a genuinely nice guy. But this guilt that he "chose" them? Come on...as it turned out, everyone got chosen. So he put a blue shirt on you...it's still a game, and it's a game you want to win.
The episode itself was good. I loved the challenges. Any challenge like the reward challenge where it is more mental than physical rocks. And Patty messed up the strategy - such good tv to watch. I also found it interesting that she would have been the biggest loser on her team regardless of the 3-pound pass. Makes you think that having those extra calories (which sped up her metabolism) might have been a good thing after all. I also loved the second challenge, where they raced against kids. How funny was it to see a kindergartener dash by them? Classic.
Lots of people online are upset that Jerry was voted off. But not me. I think it was a good move. He clearly had the ability to lose the rest of the weight at home. He got hurt, and couldn't compete in the challenge (and would likely be unable to work out as hard for awhile). And he showed the ability to pull a huge number. Get rid of him while you have the chance. Yes, he seemed like a genuinely nice guy. But this guilt that he "chose" them? Come on...as it turned out, everyone got chosen. So he put a blue shirt on you...it's still a game, and it's a game you want to win.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Dancing With the Stars
It took two nights, but the premiere of Dancing With the Stars was well worth it. It's a good group this season - I'm even more excited now than I was while I was waiting for the show to start. And how fun is it that Drew is filling in for Samantha...every time Tom looks over at him, you definitely get the idea that he's wondering just how long he will be stuck without her.
The girls danced the first night, and, for the most part, the level of dancing was much better than in previous seasons. My early favorites are Sabrina (the Cheetah girl, whatever that is), Mel B (Scary Spice) and Jennie. All three delivered solid dances (I think that Jennie's scores were lower because she went first), and I think they'll be around for awhile. The middle of the pack for the girls were Marie and Jane. They were good, but I think they are getting a bit of a handicap because of their ages (I just didn't think they were nearly as good as their scores reflected). And, sadly, at the bottom was Josie. I loved how her partner said she was "deceptively unfit." How do you think the models are so thin? They don't eat and have no muscles! Dancing takes a lot of physical strength, and I like that people are starting to realize that. She's definitely at danger to go home this week.
The men had a big act to follow, and they were equally entertaining. I think that it's harder to separate the men, since so many of them were really fun to watch, even if they didn't have the best technique. I think that the top men would be Helio, Albert, and Cameron. I also love Mark, but that has a lot more to do with the fact that I'm a big fan of Mark Cuban than anything else (he runs the Mavs the way I would if I owned a sports team). He wasn't bad, and I think the longer he's in the competition, the better he will get. Floyd was also a mid-range dancer - very entertaining, but not so great with the dancing (he really needed to stand up straight!). And even though Wayne is a great entertainer, he's definitely not a great dancer. He has a legion of fans, so he might be sticking around just based on viewers votes.
Should be an interesting results show...
The girls danced the first night, and, for the most part, the level of dancing was much better than in previous seasons. My early favorites are Sabrina (the Cheetah girl, whatever that is), Mel B (Scary Spice) and Jennie. All three delivered solid dances (I think that Jennie's scores were lower because she went first), and I think they'll be around for awhile. The middle of the pack for the girls were Marie and Jane. They were good, but I think they are getting a bit of a handicap because of their ages (I just didn't think they were nearly as good as their scores reflected). And, sadly, at the bottom was Josie. I loved how her partner said she was "deceptively unfit." How do you think the models are so thin? They don't eat and have no muscles! Dancing takes a lot of physical strength, and I like that people are starting to realize that. She's definitely at danger to go home this week.
The men had a big act to follow, and they were equally entertaining. I think that it's harder to separate the men, since so many of them were really fun to watch, even if they didn't have the best technique. I think that the top men would be Helio, Albert, and Cameron. I also love Mark, but that has a lot more to do with the fact that I'm a big fan of Mark Cuban than anything else (he runs the Mavs the way I would if I owned a sports team). He wasn't bad, and I think the longer he's in the competition, the better he will get. Floyd was also a mid-range dancer - very entertaining, but not so great with the dancing (he really needed to stand up straight!). And even though Wayne is a great entertainer, he's definitely not a great dancer. He has a legion of fans, so he might be sticking around just based on viewers votes.
Should be an interesting results show...
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
The Hottest Bachelor Ever!
Ok, does anyone but me think that when voice-over-guy says this at the beginning of each new season that there are former bachelors at home yelling at their tvs? I just picture Andrew Firestone saying "HEY!". Ok, maybe it's just me...
So, last night kicked off another season of The Bachelor, and it looks like it's going to be a good one. Any time the bachelor mentions the fact that he is going to find his wife more than once, you know you've got a live one. And Brad seems like he is nice enough as well (and certainly good to look at).
It's hard to tell with the girls so far. There were a few standouts, and thankfully Brad showed some semblance of smarts when he let go Juli (the human pretzel) and Morgan (who thought that showing off her webbed toes was perfect cocktail party conversation). Of course, he's also carrying on the proud tradition of so many Bachelors by giving Mallory (who decided that a bikini was the perfect choice) a rose as well. I was also glad that Jenni got the first rose, even though that hasn't worked out well for the girls in the past (has anyone who got the first impression rose ever lasted to the hometown dates?).
Trashy tv? Of course. And I love every minute of it.
So, last night kicked off another season of The Bachelor, and it looks like it's going to be a good one. Any time the bachelor mentions the fact that he is going to find his wife more than once, you know you've got a live one. And Brad seems like he is nice enough as well (and certainly good to look at).
It's hard to tell with the girls so far. There were a few standouts, and thankfully Brad showed some semblance of smarts when he let go Juli (the human pretzel) and Morgan (who thought that showing off her webbed toes was perfect cocktail party conversation). Of course, he's also carrying on the proud tradition of so many Bachelors by giving Mallory (who decided that a bikini was the perfect choice) a rose as well. I was also glad that Jenni got the first rose, even though that hasn't worked out well for the girls in the past (has anyone who got the first impression rose ever lasted to the hometown dates?).
Trashy tv? Of course. And I love every minute of it.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Chicken Joins the "First Out" Club
Wow. I’m not so sure what to think about the premiere of Survivor: China, other than wow.
First, you should know that I am extremely biased about the location this season. My husband and I are adopting from
I also noticed that they are giving them a lot more amenities this season. There is rice, and the losing tribe was given flint at tribal (which almost never happens). I think that it has more to do with the location than anything else. It’s been awhile since Survivor was at a location where food was not plentiful. But in locations like
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Kid Nation
Ok, so after all the talk of Kid Nation, I had to watch it for myself. And while I haven't decided it once was enough (or if it will even make it long enough to show all the episodes on tv), I definitely have some thoughts on the show.
First, who are the producers at CBS that thought that this was a good idea? Can you imagine the pitch meeting on this one? "We're going to put 40 kids in a ghost town, then put them into a class system, then see what happens. Oh yeah, we're going to have some Survivor-type challenges, not let them talk to their parents, and give out big gold stars." Wow.
But even more disturbing than the pitch meeting are the parents who signed their kids up for this nonsense. At least with the producers, you know that their goal is to make a television show that will make money. (and I don't think they did that, considering how few commercials were on last night's show) But the parents? Shouldn't their goal be to protect their children? Even in the best situation (which this show clearly is not), they are sending their children off to be unsupervised for 40 days. But they are also sending their children off to live in unsanitary and potentially unsafe conditions (for example, for at least the first few days, there was one outhouse for 40 children). Most of the kids are clearly spoiled brats (just look at their reaction to the possibility of having a television), and are clearly unequipped for the challenges ahead. And little kids, like poor Jimmy, who are far too young for this are encouraged to "stick it out" rather than go home. These people should be ashamed of themselves.
That all being said, I can see where it is interesting television. I don't want to talk a lot about the kids themselves, mostly because I don't think it's right to criticize children. Of course, who knows what will come...
First, who are the producers at CBS that thought that this was a good idea? Can you imagine the pitch meeting on this one? "We're going to put 40 kids in a ghost town, then put them into a class system, then see what happens. Oh yeah, we're going to have some Survivor-type challenges, not let them talk to their parents, and give out big gold stars." Wow.
But even more disturbing than the pitch meeting are the parents who signed their kids up for this nonsense. At least with the producers, you know that their goal is to make a television show that will make money. (and I don't think they did that, considering how few commercials were on last night's show) But the parents? Shouldn't their goal be to protect their children? Even in the best situation (which this show clearly is not), they are sending their children off to be unsupervised for 40 days. But they are also sending their children off to live in unsanitary and potentially unsafe conditions (for example, for at least the first few days, there was one outhouse for 40 children). Most of the kids are clearly spoiled brats (just look at their reaction to the possibility of having a television), and are clearly unequipped for the challenges ahead. And little kids, like poor Jimmy, who are far too young for this are encouraged to "stick it out" rather than go home. These people should be ashamed of themselves.
That all being said, I can see where it is interesting television. I don't want to talk a lot about the kids themselves, mostly because I don't think it's right to criticize children. Of course, who knows what will come...
Survivor: China Starts Tonight!
That's right - just when I was bummed about Big Brother being over, Survivor: China begins. While I love nearly all of the reality shows, Survivor is far and away my favorite. And I'm really excited about this season being in China, as we are currently in the process to adopt our daughter from China.
Some thoughts before the season starts. First, we're starting out with 16 castaways this season. There haven't been 16 since before All Stars, which means that we're in for a twist somewhere along the way. The other possibility is that they have eliminated the double tribal council week and gone back to a final two. But I think that there is something coming.
I'm also not sure who to root for yet. I always like to make a prediction before the first episode airs. I will be rooting for Denise, as she's from the same city outside of Boston as my mom (even went to the same high school). I don't know how long she'll last though...my husband has all sorts of not-so-nice things to say about the accent from there - she may just drive her fellow tribemates crazy! :) I think that Frosti, James,Sherea, and Aaron will be strong players. I would watch out for John Robert as well - he's a professional poker player, and just might be able to play each and every one of his tribemates. The first one out? That's a toughie, since a lot depends on how the tribes break out, but I think that Courtney and Chicken should watch out.
Some thoughts before the season starts. First, we're starting out with 16 castaways this season. There haven't been 16 since before All Stars, which means that we're in for a twist somewhere along the way. The other possibility is that they have eliminated the double tribal council week and gone back to a final two. But I think that there is something coming.
I'm also not sure who to root for yet. I always like to make a prediction before the first episode airs. I will be rooting for Denise, as she's from the same city outside of Boston as my mom (even went to the same high school). I don't know how long she'll last though...my husband has all sorts of not-so-nice things to say about the accent from there - she may just drive her fellow tribemates crazy! :) I think that Frosti, James,Sherea, and Aaron will be strong players. I would watch out for John Robert as well - he's a professional poker player, and just might be able to play each and every one of his tribemates. The first one out? That's a toughie, since a lot depends on how the tribes break out, but I think that Courtney and Chicken should watch out.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Jillian is Back
Well, it's "finally" time for the black team and Jillian to return to the Biggest Loser campus. And while I still think that the black team twist was mean, I'm glad they're back. First, I'm not such a fan of Kim. Aside from the fact that she didn't seem to work her team very hard this week, she also wasn't such a great coach to Lezlye & Amy. You could also tell a lot about her relationship with Bob when Bob greeted Jillian. Anyways, no surprise that the red team lost again this week, and another one of the whiny girls got sent home. My prediction? They'll be absorbed by the blue & black teams in the next two weeks.
Dick Crowned Winner of BB8
In a much wider margin than I would ever have imagined, Dick was crowned the winner of Big Brother 8. I can't believe it. I don't even know what there is to say - there were no good choices, and I suppose that the jury recognized that even though Danielle was the brains of the operation, Dick did the grunt work. Go figure.
The finale itself was pretty good. I liked that Amber called out Danielle about cheating on her boyfriend with Nick, and it was clear that her relationship with him (her boyfriend) is over when she hugged Nick when she got out (with no boyfriend to be seen). And supposedly they are going on a trip to Europe together. I guess she knew it was over when her HoH letter was from Nick, not her boyfriend. And the reaction of the players to learning about the America's Player twist was good too.
So that's it for BB8. I already miss it...
The finale itself was pretty good. I liked that Amber called out Danielle about cheating on her boyfriend with Nick, and it was clear that her relationship with him (her boyfriend) is over when she hugged Nick when she got out (with no boyfriend to be seen). And supposedly they are going on a trip to Europe together. I guess she knew it was over when her HoH letter was from Nick, not her boyfriend. And the reaction of the players to learning about the America's Player twist was good too.
So that's it for BB8. I already miss it...
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
A New Season of The Biggest Loser
Well, another season of The Biggest Loser is upon us. That's right, the original "fat people on scales" show is back. And even though I'm not so sure about the twists, I'm glad it's back.
It's still too early to rate the contestants this season, but there's no question that they're fatter than ever. It's strange to think that some of the female contestants this season have goal weights that are close to the starting weights of some of the female contestants from season 1. Really. They're also trying to find bigger sob stories as well, like the woman who lost everything to Katrina. And this is where I start to doubt the twist of the black team. These are clearly people who have already been though a lot, beyond their weight and health problems. So why add insult to injury? There were more than a few brief minutes where they thought they had been cast off again. So while I think that the black team twist might be good, the contestants on that team need to be treated like people.
I'm also not sure about the new host as well. I like Allison so far, and she seems to be much more suited for the role. I guess I just wish I knew why they got rid of Caroline.
So in a few hours we'll see the arrival of the black team on the BL campus (not the ranch this year...not sure why they got rid of the ranch...). Can't wait.
It's still too early to rate the contestants this season, but there's no question that they're fatter than ever. It's strange to think that some of the female contestants this season have goal weights that are close to the starting weights of some of the female contestants from season 1. Really. They're also trying to find bigger sob stories as well, like the woman who lost everything to Katrina. And this is where I start to doubt the twist of the black team. These are clearly people who have already been though a lot, beyond their weight and health problems. So why add insult to injury? There were more than a few brief minutes where they thought they had been cast off again. So while I think that the black team twist might be good, the contestants on that team need to be treated like people.
I'm also not sure about the new host as well. I like Allison so far, and she seems to be much more suited for the role. I guess I just wish I knew why they got rid of Caroline.
So in a few hours we'll see the arrival of the black team on the BL campus (not the ranch this year...not sure why they got rid of the ranch...). Can't wait.
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Summer of the Donatos
I know it's been awhile since I've blogged about Big Brother, and now that I have the time I'm just too annoyed to do it. Grrrr...
The "America's Player" twist this summer changed the entire game. I can't imagine that if Eric was acting on his own he would have let Dick & Danielle make it so far in the game. In fact, I don't even think that Dick would have made it to the jury house if Eric had had his way. It's such a bummer. I really liked Eric, Jessica, and Dustin, and they got screwed by the twist. I really hope that they let Eric come back next season to play again on his own. I also love that the love between Jessica and Eric seems to be real (and didn't you just love Dustin's comment about the thin walls in the jury house on Thursday?).
I'm also really dismayed at how some of the events of the summer were handled. The worst, to me, were the anti-semetic comments made by Amber. Those, though, I understand why they couldn't do anything about (other than not show it again on CBS). But Dick's constant attacks (especially against Jen) were absurd. The producer said that they didn't punish Dick for dumping iced tea on Jen because of Jen's reaction - so, apparently, because Jen put up a brave face each time she was attacked, Dick received no punishment. How ridiculous. I felt the same way about the fight between Jen & Dick that involved Dick's cigarettes and Jen eating. No question that Jen needed to receive a penalty for eating while she was on slop (though maybe it's a signal to the producers that they need to bring back PB&Js next summer...in fact, did they even have any more food competitions after that?). But destroying Dick's cigarettes? CBS directed Eric to destroy Jen's property earlier in the season. I also question the "enemy" twist, since Danielle & Dick have had an alliance all summer - CBS clearly thought that this would be a good story.
So, now we're left with Dick and Danielle in the final two. I don't know how the jury can even choose. Dick spent the summer being truly ugly to everyone on the jury. And Danielle was crafty beyond belief. She betrayed each and every one of her alliances, and cheated on her boyfriend on national television. And she did it while saying that she didn't lie to anyone. There's no question that she's a fierce competitor, but I have to wonder if she would have done as well if her dad hadn't been in the house to deflect the heat off of her. She'll likely win by default. All I know is that when Eric reveals the AP twist, it will be the highlight of the season.
The "America's Player" twist this summer changed the entire game. I can't imagine that if Eric was acting on his own he would have let Dick & Danielle make it so far in the game. In fact, I don't even think that Dick would have made it to the jury house if Eric had had his way. It's such a bummer. I really liked Eric, Jessica, and Dustin, and they got screwed by the twist. I really hope that they let Eric come back next season to play again on his own. I also love that the love between Jessica and Eric seems to be real (and didn't you just love Dustin's comment about the thin walls in the jury house on Thursday?).
I'm also really dismayed at how some of the events of the summer were handled. The worst, to me, were the anti-semetic comments made by Amber. Those, though, I understand why they couldn't do anything about (other than not show it again on CBS). But Dick's constant attacks (especially against Jen) were absurd. The producer said that they didn't punish Dick for dumping iced tea on Jen because of Jen's reaction - so, apparently, because Jen put up a brave face each time she was attacked, Dick received no punishment. How ridiculous. I felt the same way about the fight between Jen & Dick that involved Dick's cigarettes and Jen eating. No question that Jen needed to receive a penalty for eating while she was on slop (though maybe it's a signal to the producers that they need to bring back PB&Js next summer...in fact, did they even have any more food competitions after that?). But destroying Dick's cigarettes? CBS directed Eric to destroy Jen's property earlier in the season. I also question the "enemy" twist, since Danielle & Dick have had an alliance all summer - CBS clearly thought that this would be a good story.
So, now we're left with Dick and Danielle in the final two. I don't know how the jury can even choose. Dick spent the summer being truly ugly to everyone on the jury. And Danielle was crafty beyond belief. She betrayed each and every one of her alliances, and cheated on her boyfriend on national television. And she did it while saying that she didn't lie to anyone. There's no question that she's a fierce competitor, but I have to wonder if she would have done as well if her dad hadn't been in the house to deflect the heat off of her. She'll likely win by default. All I know is that when Eric reveals the AP twist, it will be the highlight of the season.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Season Finale of Fat March
I cannot believe I wasted so much time watching fat people walk. Which is worse - that they made the show or that I watched it? It was so poorly done...it could have been interesting if it had been done better. It does seem like an interesting concept. But it was a good idea gone wrong. First, it was annoying to me that thy clearly weren't walking in a straight line, and I don't believe they even marched from place to place. (mostly because I have lived my whole life on the east coast, recognized some of the places they were at, then they started somewhere completely different). The worst was at the end of stage 5...they ended in Baltimore (at the World Trade Center...where, coincidentally, my sister got married), which is a 30 mile drive from DC. But instead, they started them on the other side of the state to get their miles in. Very annoying. I also have to question how safe the program was that so many people got injured. And finally, what was the story with Jamie Lyn - is she married? Anyways, I'm not sad to see it end...and if it comes back for another season I think I'll give it a miss.
Back from a Summer Hiatus
Yes, even though my favorite dancer won So You Think You Can Dance? and this is turning into a pretty good season after all of Big Brother, "confessions of a reality tv addict" took a summer hiatus. Oh well. But I'm back...for now... :)
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