Reality finales induce holi-daze
Somewhere in between the holiday party madness, the eggnog-hazed tree trimming and syndicated Christmas movie marathons, I managed to collapse on my couch for some much needed R&R and RTV (aka reality TV). Turns out that not only is the holiday season in full swing, but so is the season of reality show finales.
It goes without saying that “Survivor” (CBS) has lost its edge during the past few years and the final episode was not as anticipated as it had been previously. I remember practically writing down the competitors’ scathing final words so that I’d have something to talk about with co-workers the next day.
Many comments come to mind, such as Susan Hawk’s “If I ever passed you again in life, and you were dying of thirst, I would not give you a drink of water. I’d leave you for the vultures.”
Last week’s “Survivor: Vanuatu” finale didn’t have quite the same punch as before but still had some of the usual end-of-show antics. Chris Doherty, an Ohio construction worker, came out on top. Following some crafty strategizing and manipulation, he was able to score himself a spot in the final three with Eliza and Twyla. The ladies had a few harsh words for Chris, but I ask you, is it really that shocking that he lied and tricked these women? Isn’t that the nature of the game?
The women should have simply accepted their defeat gracefully and smiled for the camera instead of getting huffy about his shifty behavior.
“Survivor” is not the only show that condones trash talking. The last installment of “America’s Next Top Model” (Wednesdays, UPN) airs this week, and my hunch is that Tyra Banks may have to pull these cats apart at the end of the show. Actually, the remaining beauties, Amanda, Yaya and Eva, all seem to have good heads on their shoulders, but I wouldn’t be surprised if the diva of the bunch, Eva, lashes out if she doesn’t win. Keep your fingers crossed.
Continuing with the diva theme, I’d like to move on to “The Apprentice” (Thursdays, NBC) and ask the question that is on all of our minds: How did Jennifer M. make it to the final two? After numerous boardroom showdowns, it pained me to see that she slipped under the radar. Kelly, a former military man, has shown that he is a force to be reckoned with, and it is understandable that he’s in the running for the apprenticeship.
The two-hour season finale, followed by the live reunion show, aired Thursday.
In other news, I hear Martha Stewart and mega producer Mark Burnett are teaming up for a new reality show. And be on the lookout for Nicole and Paris, as they are coming to town this January … in a Greyhound bus. Yikes!