Confessions of a Reality TV Junkie

I love them. They make me laugh. I’m always happy to see them. They’re never late and they always leave me wanting more.

So why do I find myself denying them?

I have a confession, I love reality TV. There, I said it. I can hide my shame no longer. Reality TV does it for me.

No, I’m not talking about the motivational, self help, “I can do this” reality show; I’m talking about the low-brow, narcissistic, in your face ones. And before you deny it, we all know the ones I mean.

According to the New York Post I’m not alone. More and more women in the 18-49 demographic are opting for less traditional programing. We’re tuning in to the “Real Housewives” over Oprah.

Recently I found myself wondering why so many of us are glued to these shows when we know how outrageous and far from reality they are. Whether it’s a house full of randy 20 something’s with a duck phone, or a flock of gold-digging housewives, I can’t get enough.

Okay, let’s think about this…

There is the comedy value. My laughs aren’t a result of well-timed jokes or punch lines, but from the delusional antics of the main characters. Is it possible these people are actually that self-absorbed?

Also, a girl needs her drama fix. Whether it comes in the form of a catfight, messy divorce or dinner party gone wrong, these shows provide amateur dramatics by the truck load. They have mastered the age-old art of the cliffhanger… keeping us wondering what will happen next week.

They call it “reality” TV, but for most of us it’s far from it. Perhaps it’s more of a brief escape from our everyday doldrums.

If nothing else, these shows make me laugh, and we all know laughter is the best medicine.

Until next time,

Peace, love and vitamin C!