Is It Cool to be a Redneck?

For years, Jeff Foxworthy managed to create an entire career out of redneck jokes.  Although many folks enjoyed his humor, I would never have considered being a redneck the cool thing to do.  However, so many reality shows have popped up lately focusing on... well... less than classy southern behavior, I am starting to believe it is actually in style to be a redneck now.

If you don't believe me, let me give you an example of just some of the many shows that highlight southern living:

Duck Dynasty
Swamp People
Cajun Justice
Buckwild (cancelled due to death of cast member)
Deep South Paranormal
Myrtle Manor

This is a reasonably short list.  There are shows one could argue are considered rather redneck, like Honey Boo Boo's show and even Teen Mom.  Reality shows featuring southern life (often at its worst) are popping up all over the place. 

So why is this happening?  Are people in the south finally getting a chance to have their own television programs?  Is it genuinely cool to be a redneck now?  Is it really rednecks watching these shows, or are the viewers really people looking down upon the cast members and having a good laugh at their expense?  My guess would be it is a combination of the two.

No matter what, the cast members in these shows are walking away with a lot of money.  Most of them are doing better than the rest of us financially if their shows are a hit, so maybe they are really getting the last laugh.

Best Week Ever is BACK!!!

If your life has been just a little empty and sad since VH1 stopped showing Best Week Ever, well I have news for you!  Best Week Ever is back on VH1.  Yes, if you happen to be home on a Friday night (or alert in the mornings during the weekend when it is rerun), you can enjoy Best Week Ever again.

No longer are we forced to rely on just The Soup when it comes to catching up with pop culture.  We can now enjoy the snarky sense of humor Best Week Ever offers.  Each week, we will get to hear about terrible reality shows, celebrity gossip, and ridiculous television programs.  Thank goodness!  The world just wasn't the same with Best Week Ever gone.  Thanks, VH1!

Catfish: The TV Show

For those of you that have not had the delight of watching Catfish: The TV Show yet, you are seriously missing out.  It is the show everyone is talking about.  The basis of the show is very simple: the show unites people that have met online yet never met in person.  Let the drama begin!

Originally, Catfish was an indie movie about a couple that met online.  Nev, our host of the TV show, thought he was in love with a girl he was talking to online.  Turns out, a married women in her 40s was just pretending to be the girl he thought he loved.  So basically, the show is the same concept.

Some of the online couples on this show have been talking for years and years, yet they've never met in person once.  One couple had been talking to each other for 10 years online, yet never skyped once or met in person.  This show definitely shows you all the dangers of "dating" a person you've actually never met.

In two cases so far, the "man" of two participants dreams turned out to be women.  I've seen 4 episodes so far, and still, no happy endings seem to be in sight.  It seems as if these are all sad stories full of lies and betrayal.  At the same time though, how could one not be suspicious of someone online that is never willing to meet in person or skype? 

In many of these cases, it seems as if the person is lonely and wants to believe the person on the other end of the computer is perfect for them.  I am convinced somewhere deep down, they must know this is a fantasy.  Otherwise, why would they not put more working into finding out the truth?  Within a short period of time, Nev and his buddy, Max, are able to learn plenty about these people using basic search methods online.  Why can't anyone else think to do this?
I suppose none of that really matters.  All that matters is the sheer awesomeness of Catfish.  If you've ever dated anyone online or you just like really shocking, crazy endings, Catfish is a show you should be watching on MTV.

America's Funniest Home Videos

This is not so much a blog post as it is a random thought... how on earth is America's Funniest Home Videos still on TV?

After all these years, you can still watch people getting hit in the crotch, people falling down stairs, and animals and babies do ridiculously cute things.  People are still watching this show!

I really would not even know this show still existed except my parents insist on watching it.  I suppose I can't even judge the reasoning behind keeping this show on the air.  Considering my parents will watch the same old clips mixed with a few new clips over and over again, there is always going to be an audience for this show. 

Is Jersey Shore Already Over?

As a fan of Jersey Shore, I have to admit I was pretty sad to hear this is the last season.  I have grown to love the Jersey Shore crew just as if I know them myself.  However, now that I've seen the first episode, I know it is time for the show to end.

No one can stay young forever, and the gang is getting older and moving on.  After all, you can't (or at least shouldn't) have a house full of adults partying every summer without real responsibilities.  They are all changing and moving on.

Snooki was pregnant while filming this season of Jersey Shore.  You simply can't have Jersey Shore without Snooki, but pregnant, responsible Snooki isn't going to pull in ratings.  Sure, we all love her and probably respect her more now, and in the end, this makes her a better person.  But Jersey Shore just isn't the same.

The Situation has been to rehab recently and he is now trying to make amends with his roommates.  He is no longer drinking.  Although, once again, this makes him a better person, this is also a strange turn of events for a show known for partying.

Finally, we have Vinny now deciding he is going to be celibate.  I am kind of hoping that is a joke, but something tells me it isn't.  It seems as if half the house is trying to go down a healthier path. 

While I applaud these efforts, it makes me realize Jersey Shore and its glory days have truly ended.  I want nothing for the best for these people I almost feel I've gotten to know on a personal level, but I know this really should be the last season of Jersey Shore.

Big Ang is Coming!

If you are a big fan of Mob Wives, then I know you are a big fan of Big Ang.  Luckily for all of us, her new show is premiering this Sunday on VH1.  I am super excited.  Mob Wives Chicago is fun, but doesn't have the edge the original show has.  After all, they were fighting over Facebook a couple of weeks ago. 

So now, I am all about Big Ang and her show.  Give me my original mob wives peeps anyday.  Get ready for all the wackiness and fun that is Big Ang.  I know I'll be watching it.

Jerzathon - A Jersey Shore Weekend

Since Jersey Shore will be wrapping up its 5th season this coming Thursday, MTV has decided to give the fans a going away present.  This weekend is the Jerzathon.  For those of you that don't speak MTV language, this means there is a Jersey Shore marathon all weekend.

You get to see all the craziness that is Jersey Shore all day long.  You can see Angelina walk out - twice, watch JWoww hit the Situation, see Deena begin her Jersey Shore journey, and watch various stalkers go after the guys.  It is also a good time to learn about DTF, GTL, and any other Jersey Shore terms you don't fully understand yet.

So if you are sitting in front of your TV right now, it is a great time to watch Jersey Shore.  Come on, you know you want to anyway, so go for it.

Jersey Shore - The Educational Aspects

Some people tend to think MTV's Jersey Shore has nothing useful to offer its viewers, but I beg to differ.  I have learned so many wonderful new facts from watching Jersey Shore.  I am ever so grateful Jersey Shore returned to MTV last Thursday.  I am sure there is much more to learn!

I now know the meaning of the terms GTL, grenades, gorilla juicehead, and smushing.  I also understand the importance of a good tan.  I realize it is better to be orange than pale.

Aside from those educational moments, I've also learned some new dance moves, such as the Jersey Turnpike and fist pumping.  I know how to have a great dance battle.  I also know how to dress (or not dress) when going to the clubs.

As if all of that was not enough, I've even learned some awesome fight moves.  I am ready to defend myself at a moment's notice now.

Thanks, Jersey Shore!  You've made my life better in so many ways! 

For even more life lessons from Jersey Shore, check out:

What I've Learned From Watching MTV's Jersey Shore

Mob Wives Return to VH1

Just in case you were wondering what to do on New Year's Day, I can tell you to look no further!  Mob Wives will be returning to VH1 on Jan. 1, 2012.  What a fabulous way to ring in the New Year!  Who doesn't want to watch some mob ladies beat the hell out of each other?  Nothing says a good time more than that. 

Perhaps others will be watching some sentimental New Year's garbage.  Maybe some folks will be spending time with family or having a big dinner.  I will not be doing any of that.  I will instead be watching Mob Wives on VH1.  I also suspect a Mob Wives marathon might just come on that day to celebrate the big event.  It just seems like the right thing for VH1 to do. 

So thanks, VH1.  I wasn't that excited about the New Year, but now I am!  Finally, a quality program I can watch again on VH1.

VH1's Greatest Songs of the '00s

VH1 has been showing the greatest songs of the first 10 years of this millenium for about a week.  Naturally, this is the perfect time to watch a bunch of music videos on VH1.  I have really enjoyed watching the countdown.  If you'd like to read the entire countdown, you can easily visit the page at: VH1's Greatest Songs of the '00s.

I agree on many of the choices for the countdown.  I am glad Hey Ya! and Poker Face were in the top 3 where they belonged.  However, there is a great injustice in this countdown!  One of the greatest songs ever has been ignored.  I am talking about My Humps by the Black Eyed Peas. 

How is it possible to have a countdown without My Humps?  Everyone was singing that song and discussing it.  Where is it?  Instead, I Gotta Feeling is included on the countdown.  Really?  Sure, everyone likes that song, but everyone REALLY likes My Humps.  It was so popular, Alanis Morissette created her own version of it.  Any song that is worthy of a parody is worthy of being on this countdown. 

VH1 - How could you neglect this song?

American Horror Story - My Review

I actually debated calling this, "How I wasted an hour of my life."  Actually, the show may have been a little longer than an hour, but I started fading out somewhere towards the end.  I was probably too busy muttering to myself, "What is this?  Why does this program exist?"

Don't get me wrong - I don't shock easily and I want to be scared.  So my problem was not with the show's shocking scenes or language, which was certainly more than I would have ever anticipated seeing on basic cable.  I also don't mind if the show was rather confusing.  I was a big fan of Twin Peaks, so being confused is fine.  (Which, by the way, this show wants to be Twin Peaks, but it will never live up to that standard.)

My major issue with the show was that it seemed forced.  I felt as if the writers sat down and said, "How can we make this show as confusing and disturbing as humanly possible and get away with it?"  I mean, seriously, how many times can you cuss in one show?  Did I really need to see bare ass twice in one show?  Furthermore, how about some real character development?  By the end of the show, I wanted to see everyone get killed.

I will say I did appreciate some of the unusual camera angles. I also applauded the show for featuring a mentally challenged cast member, yet I was annoyed at the way she was treated in the show.  I did think the scary creatures and ghouls were pretty decent.  There was an OK amount of blood and creepiness.  However, I was not scared.

For a show called American Horror Story, I expect to be scared.  I don't want to be annoyed, disturbed, or frustrated, but that was the case for the whole show.  Give me more monsters, more ghosts, and more weirdness.  Give me a lot less random nudity, unnecessary profanity, and obnoxious characters. 

For now, I am going back to watching SyFy channel on Wednesday nights. 

Beavis and Butthead Return to MTV

Finally, at long last, all is right in the world.  Beavis and Butthead return to MTV on October 27, 2011!  Our cartoon heroes are finally back.  There has been way too many terrible music videos, ridiculous commercials, and stupid shows, and no Beavis and Butthead to make fun of them. 

The guys have not aged at all since they originally appeared on MTV.  Nor does the show look any better or any classier.  No, even if they have updated the cartoon by digitally creating Beavis and Butthead, it sure hasn't helped them look any more sophisticated.  As far as I am concerned, that is alright with me.

First, MTV2 brought back 120 Minutes, then VH1 brought back Pop Up Video, but now, MTV has saved the best for last by bringing back Beavis and Butthead.  There are rumors they may opt to bring back Daria while they are at it.  Thank you, MTV.  Thank you.

The X Factor vs. American Idol

There has been much talk about The X Factor the last few days.  Many people say The X Factor is just like American Idol.  Although it has some obvious similarities, it is not just like American Idol.  I would like to break down some of the differences between the two shows for anyone that might be curious.

• The X Factor is missing two likeable personalities from American Idol: Randy Jackson and Ryan Seacrest.  I never imagined I would miss the two of them, but I actually do.
• Simon Cowell actually seems a bit nicer on The X Factor.  I am not sure if he is trying to turn over a new leaf, or he is just enjoying being on a different show.
• The auditions for The X Factor are in front of a huge live audience.  This gives you an opportunity to see if someone will freeze on stage as opposed to just performing in front of a small group of judges like American Idol.
• The X Factor performers are allowed music in the background for their performance.  In my opinion, this helps many of them. 
• All the judges are drinking Pepsi for The X Factor.  For American Idol, everyone always drank Coke.  Interesting all of the judges would drink the same soda, huh?  Oh, that is right.  TV is just all about the endorsements anyway.
• The prize for The X Factor is enormous: 5 million dollars.  It makes that once exciting 1 million dollar prize on American Idol seem small. 
• Anyone 12 years old or older can audition for The X Factor.  There is no such thing as being too old to audition for the show, which is really nice.  American Idol now accepts those from the ages of 15 to 28.  Let's face it - some people who are way older than 28 have talent, so now they can audition for The X Factor.

Paranormal Witness on Syfy Channel

For all of you paranormal show fans, you need to check out the new Syfy series Paranormal Witness.  Paranormal Witness premiered last night just in time for the Halloween season.  The series features reenactments of alleged actual paranormal activity.  Although I personally prefer reality shows that feature investigations, this show is certainly entertaining.

Last night, during the premiere episode, Paranormal Witness had two stories.  The first was about a family in Baltimore haunted by a ghost calling itself Emily.  The second story was about a family driving at night that sees a mysterious girl on the side of the road.

I actually preferred the second story since I am a sucker for the old "ghost on the side of the road" tale.  This one happened in Florida and it was fun to watch.  Do I believe everything I saw on the show?  No, probably not.  When people are upset, they tend to let their imagination get the best of them.  Do I believe there was some truth to the stories?  Sure, it could happen.  Some of the show was a bit melodramatic, but it was still a creepy show and worth watching.  So check out the repeat tonight at 8 pm if you get a chance. 

Too Much Towing?

Source: TruTV.com - Operation Repo

I know what you probably lie awake asking yourself at night: How many reality TV shows can actually be about tow trucks and tow truck adventures?  Apparently, you can have at least 4 reality shows that completely revolve around the concept of repossessing or towing vehicles.  Amazing, isn't it?  How?  Why?  Can it really be that interesting?  Furthermore, one channel, TruTV, is the source for all these shows.  Is there really that much of an audience for this?  Obviously they must be getting ratings or these shows could not exist.

The 4 reality TV shows on the air about towing companies are now:

• Operation Repo
• Lizard Lick Towing
• South Beach Tow
• Bear Swamp Recovery

Each show claims to be totally unique.  For instance, it appears each person starring in Bear Swamp Recovery is overweight.  Stop laughing... really, this is how the commercial makes it seem.  I am not sure how America can possibly be ready for 4 tow truck shows, but TruTV thinks we are.  So if you are really into seeing people have their cars repossessed, this is a great time for television programming for you. 



The Jersey Shore is Back Tonight!

FINALLY!  The Jersey Shore returns to MTV tonight.  The Jersey Shore is entering its 4th season and they will be in Italy this time.  I can't imagine how this group is going to function in Italy, but I suppose it should be fun to watch.  Apparently we will get to see fights (of course), a car accident, and hot Italians (actually from Italy, not the usual Jersey Shore crew).

I guess there is really not too much to say about it.  Jersey Shore is back and life is complete again.  So tune in at 10 and enjoy.  Just sayin!

My Little Review of the New 120 Minutes

As I mentioned in a previous post, I was super excited to hear 120 Minutes was coming back on the air this weekend.  The new 120 Minutes premiered last night.  I taped it and just viewed the show.  It was an exciting time for me.

I have to say, Matt Pinfield looks like he has never aged.  He is the same guy I remember from the original 120 Minutes.  It was nice to hear some new bands, like the Joy Formidable and Cults.  I also enjoyed watching some old clips from artists like Radiohead.  A number of bands appeared on the show for interviews, as well.

If I had to be picky about anything at all, I would say I was a little sad the show featured interviews from Kings of Leon and PJ Harvey, but did not show any of their videos.  I was really excited because I thought perhaps PJ Harvey had a new video and I would get to see it, but no such luck.  I guess I can just hope for next week.

Overall, the new 120 Minutes is just as awesome as the original, and I can't wait to see the next episode.  Just the fact that this show exists again gives me hope for the music industry.  I believe there was a time when there wasn't enough decent music out there, but now there are enough new, talented artists to fill up at least 2 hours of air time each week. 

A Little Something Special for the Remote Control

http://hubpages.com/hub/A-Tribute-to-the-Remote-Control

To all of you Couch Potatoes out there, you know one of the most important aspects to TV viewing is not actually getting up and crossing the room to change the channels.  My friends, we have taken the remote control for granted for too long.  I believe it is time to celebrate the remote control.

Check out: A Tribute to the Remote Control

Don't forget your old buddy - the remote control - has been there for you through thick and thin.  It helps you skip over commercials, mute annoying television moments, and change channels so you never have to watch a terrible show.  It is time to recognize the benefits our remote controls give us each day.  One day, your remote may stop working and imagine the devastation.   Just try hiding your remote for a day or two.  See how that works out for you.  We all need to take the time to appreciate the remote control.

It's a World's Dumbest Sunday!

Do you you like the World's Dumbest series on TruTV?  Of course you do!  Who doesn't?  So get ready to enjoy a dumb day.  Today, Sunday July 2nd, is a World's Dumbest Day on TruTV.  There is a marathon in action right now.  You can enjoy a nice variety of stupidity. 

Today, we get to watch:

World's Dumbest Criminals
World's Dumbest Fans
World's Dumbest Drivers
World's Dumbest Shoppers
World's Dumbest Competitions

The fun ends at around 7 pm, so what are you waiting for?  Turn it on TruTV now to enjoy the fun!

Destination Truth Marathon - Thursday June 16th!

For you Destination Truth fans, turn off the computer right now and run to the television!  Syfy is running a Destination Truth marathon right now.  I had no idea they were going to run a marathon this morning, but I am ever so happy to see it.  So go to your TV now and watch!