Being somewhat of a reality show junkie, I had watched “American Idol” every season from its beginning in 2002. Twice and sometimes three times a week, there I was, watching the auditions or whatever they dished up, like a happy zombie.
But when Simon Cowell announced last year that he was leaving the show, I made the decision that I was leaving with him. For me, his leaving was a big reason, but it wasn’t the only reason. I first started becoming disillusioned when Adam Lambert, who was undeniably the most creative and entertaining contestant the show had ever had, didn’t win. I thought to myself, “If he isn’t what America considers to be the ultimate American Idol, then I don’t know who is!” Nonetheless, I did return the following year, only to be put to sleep by the total dullness of the contestants. Sure, there were a few good singers, but where was the personality? There was none. The winner was about as exciting as watching paint dry. Nope, Adam had set the bar far too high. Adam was an entertainer. These kids were in a talent show.
Before this season began, the media bombarded us with information about the two new judges, but that didn’t influence my decision in the slightest. Jennifer Lopez seems to be a nice enough person but she doesn’t belong there. As for that Stephen Tyler guy, from the ads I’ve seen, he’s no replacement for Simon. Nope, I haven’t watched a single episode, not even five minutes worth, and I’m totally fine with that. I will never go back.
The same thing has happened with this season of “The Bachelor,” another show I’ve watched from the beginning. When I heard they were bringing back a guy who had already been on the show, I felt they just didn’t deserve my loyalty. I mean, come on, they couldn’t find a great new bachelor? The guy they brought back, this Brad, was the one who ended up not proposing to either girl at the end of his show. Unlike most of America, I didn’t hold that against him. I mean, if you’re not feeling it, you’re not feeling it. I’ve never believed you should marry someone just for good TV. No, what amazes me about the franchise bringing him back is that, like last year’s Idol contestants, he’s DULL! The guy isn’t that attractive and he’s got the personality of a peanut. So this was another reality show I stopped cold turkey. And I’m glad.
Don’t get the idea that I’m going to get all crazy and stop all reality shows. No, I love them too much. There’s still “The Amazing Race,” “Survivor,” “The Apprentice,” “Dancing With The Stars,” and “America’s Next Top Model” to satisfy my cravings, not to mention “Big Brother,” if it ever returns.
And speaking of TV, I’ve tried two of the new mid-season replacements, “Off the Map” and “Harry’s Law.” “Off the Map,” by the creator of “Grey’s Anatomy,” is about a group of doctors working in a small clinic in the rain forest. And while it’s certainly no “Grey’s,” I’ve enjoyed the kind of cases that the whole rain forest setting provides. It’s kind of a read-a-magazine-while-you-watch kind of show.
As for “Harry’s Law” about a burnt out lawyer setting up practice in a show store, I have two words for you: Kathy Bates. Even though the plots definitely require you to suspend your disbelief, just watching her is a joy. She’s sassy and mouthy and says the things you wish you had. I would highly recommend this quirky, touching program.
So you see, “when a door closes, a window opens.” Or is it “when a show sucks, a channel changes?” Yes, I think that’s definitely what it is.
See ya later,
