I started this post writing about what is wrong with Real Housewives of Atlanta and how it has jumped the shark. I thought about how it could be fixed. How to save the franchise. I thought about how to make it more interesting, ways to make it better. But, very quickly in, I was reminded that we shouldn’t be watching this crap at all. Seriously. WHAT IS WRONG WITH US? But first, here is what I thought we should do back when I was still drinking the Kool-Aid. At the end I will link you back to my thoughts three years ago, before the crazy came.
There are too many women on this show. I have said this forever, when there are more than five housewives, it’s hard to get into any of their storylines. Hell, we don’t even notice anymore when Nene is not on at all.
There is was too much recapping of the previous episode. We get it the wives told their husband about the previous week’s forced dinner where someone was a cunt. The wives who weren’t in some scenes the previous week were filled in on what happened. We don’t need the first 25% of the show to be a recap. That’s what I am for. 
Nobody has a storyline. There are two real things happening during filming. Peter’s Atlanta bar is looking for a new location due to shenanigans by the previous landlord and he has opened another bar in Charlotte. This is something that is actually happening. Yet it is merely the back drop for more catfighting by the “housewives” rather than actual discussions about the business decisions, the impact of Peter working in two cities on the marriage, the stress of looking for a new location in Atlanta and all that goes in to setting the place up. It should have a storyline similar to PUMP. Also, Apollo went to jail. Only NOTHING about that storyline was genuine. It was so contrived Phaedra could not keep the made up version straight from scene to scene. It’s clear this caused a rift with Kandi as she and Todd seemed to be supportive of Apollo. THAT would be a good storyline.
Kenya, Nene, Phaedra, Porsha and Kandi are all playing bizarre characters instead of themselves. Some idiot assigned Kenya the victim role this season. Apparently she was assigned the role of butthurt victim all season over being called a whore in previous seasons. Pleased. Kenya can’t even convincingly pretend to be the victim. She didn’t get as far as she has in life by crying at the drop of a hat over someone calling her a name. It’s ridiculous and totally under utilizing her. Nene’s over the top vanity doesn’t begin to mask her deep insecurities. Phaedra has told us since season one she is playing a role on RHOA. People thought it was cute in season one before they knew anything about the real Phaedra. Now it is just fucking ridiculous. We hated Porsha as the clueless stepford wife and she is even more annoying as the clueless whore. There is nothing the least bit interesting about her no matter who she is blowing for handbags. Kandi is either playing the role of the worst wife on the planet who lets her mother and her employees treat her husband like dogshit, or she really is the worst wife ever. Either way, we’ve seen Todd be emasculated enough. That leaves Claudia, Demetria and Cynthia. Cynthia makes a shitty carrier pigeon. Cynthia’s role on the show is the pretty, friendly, normal if a bit boring friend. The show needs that. Stop trying to make her be a trash talker like everyone else. Demetria might have some sort of a life. She sings and does a concert here and there. Sure they are probably paid for by someone on her team, but at least she is doing something. I am dying to know what she did that lost her that peach, because she might have been slightly interesting. And then there is Claudia. Let’s just give Claudia her own show about living in Atlanta and working at Dish Nation. We can see her dating and hanging out with Kenya and Cynthia and Demetria. They could have fun. They could get along. They could be silly. They could have minor spats and make up. What would be so wrong with that?
We are tired of all the “reading.” In fact, we are tired of even hearing the word “read” used in that context by so many people who probably are not literate enough to do much reading at all in the literal sense. We are tired of people threatening violence. Phaedra made more than a half a dozen violent threats on last night’s show alone. It’s not cute. We are tired of everyone calling everyone else a whore. It’s 2015. Being a whore is not particularly scandalous. If Porsha wants to sell her chuckalina to the highest bidder, more power to her, it’s probably all she has to sell. If Claudia wants to sleep with whoever she wants to sleep with, good for her. Let’s all keep tabs on our own lady gardens and let everyone else do as they please with theirs.
You know what? As I am writing this, I realize that I have said all this a million times before. I first posted about it in January of 2012 back when I still had a functioning brain and spelled things properly and used decent punctuation.
Bravo is not the problem. The housewives dancing around for Andy Cohen’s organ grinding with their metal cups extended to us are not the problem. WE ARE THE PROBLEM.
Click the link and then explain to me why we are still watching this garbage. What do we get out of it? There is obviously some reason we keep watching our fellow women be degraded for Bravo dollars on TV. What is it exactly?
I stopped watching around when you stopped covering NYC. It wasn’t one thing that made me stop really but a lot of little things. I like your blog because it is a good escape and it is a good distraction. I have a very difficult and high stress job and these shows used to relax me. Now they just seem to add to the stress. I want to be clear that I am not sitting on any kind of moral high ground here because for years I was a big big fan of all of them. They are just very staged and fake now. Perhaps Tamra showing her infant grandchild’s contract is a good example of this crazy behavior. She is a baby and it made me sick to see her exploited like that. Maybe the shows have shifted in their mean-ness? I don’t know really I’m just not interested in them.
This is the best post you’ve ever written!
I just want to say that as the blogger, you need to get your posts up fast while the show is still on our minds, so you don’t have time to worry about punctuation. As far as commenters go, it’s a different story. So don’t worry about your punctuation Tamara, we love your posts!
What is that sucking sound I hear? LOL
This is a very well written post. One thing I have admired about your blog for a while is how you are able to be neutral and have a balanced opinion in your recap. Also you don’t resort to name calling. I really think once this season plays our and I watch the reunion it will probably be it for me.. It’s too much!!
Actually, TT is a champion name caller. Just wait until you witness it, it’s a thing of beauty 😉
Yes, she is a champion. I live for those posts, truly laugh out loud. “Take a seat”…..priceless.
Umm so exactly how long is “a while”?
Like a day?
I’ve been reading this blog for nearly a year. She doesn’t name call the ppl she is talking about. To clarify there are other blogs where they call the women things like Fakedra, Clawdia, KooKoo Etc etc. After a while it makes reading the blog hard because of the nicknames I should say. I’m glad she doesn’t do it. But I love the fact that she is almost always on the money with Her tea…
Yeah, Hotrod, it’s one of her rules. Maybe try reading them.
Thanks for the post Tamara I’ve been waiting for a post like this every since the season stopped making sense to me. I’m falling out of love with the housewives series, I saw a preview for new york and had to wonder why are these women fighting and arguing on a show were the network and Andy could care less about them. They have 8 wives on NY this season the exact same format RHOA was supposed to be before they cut out demetria and demoted porsha. I just don’t get it anymore but it starts with us when we stop watching. Also last night it was apparent that Andy does not like Kenya and to see her sit there still trying to play it cool with him when he doesn’t give a damn is mind blowing. Let’s see were the housewives series will stand in 2016, I mean come on ladies acting a fool for a check isn’t worth it. And one more thing Bethany you had an amazing talk show and to see you back on this platform after all that you accomplished is crazy.
I agree about Andy/Kenya.
Bethany’s show? Not so much.
I have basically quit watching the housewives franchise. It gets depressing watching women act like entitled, spoiled, teenagers.
Aviva’s Dad was my jump the shark moment.
Aviva’s dad has the be the most disgusting human being I’ve ever seen in my life. I still love NY but I would ff through his scenes. The things he said to Ramona were inhuman.
And all the while Andy Cohen thought it was hilarious. Just goes to show you how out of touch with the viewership AC has gotten.
Well last year Andy either voluntarily stepped down or was demoted at Bravo and went from his beautiful, large office with a window to a little closet…
> > Oh don’t worry about Andrew. He just bought the apartment next to his in > his fancy building and is knocking out walls to double his space. He’s > fine. >
On Mon, Mar 2, 2015 at 4:39 PM, Tamara Tattles wrote:
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Oh good then I’ll cancel my gofundme to Save Andy 😉
Yes, he did. It was sickening.
I am a lurker on your blog, but this one inspired me to come out of hiding. I’ve been thinking exactly on the same lines lately, and have decided that these shows are killing our collective souls. I am no shrinking violet, but there’s something seriously wrong with how stoked people are getting about hating and disrespecting other women.
I’ve spent time googling and hating on Phaedra — but for what purpose? She and her husband did not steal from me, and her comeuppance will come soon enough. I don’t like what these shows are turning me into, and so after the reunions are over, I am officially done with all housewife shows. Why won’t I just quit right now? Because I’m a sick individual, that’s why.
Admitting it is the first step, Valentina. Come sit with us and we will find some way to move on from this crap. I thought Shonda Rimes would be our salvation, but I am tires of that too.
We may have to read books or something. Ugh.
Thanks for the welcome 🙂 I’ll definitely stay with the rest of the housewife refugees! That show Empire looks promising, btw. It’s a pretty smart concept, building a revenue stream from a tv show the ‘right’ way IMHO.
YES! Empire is awesome. I really want to do this Catfish recap I have been stuggling to get to, and then I will do EMPIRE.
I just don’t really want to RECAP Empire because it’s no fun for me to watch if I have to do a whole he said she said through the whole thing. I’ll see what I can do…
On Mon, Mar 2, 2015 at 3:24 PM, Tamara Tattles wrote:
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I’m totally in to Empire. Love it, love it. It’s the Dynasty of today. I’m wondering how they’re going to end up saving Lucious from dying of ALS.
Maybe instead of recapping “Empire”, you could open a discussion page, like you did with ” Utopia”? That way, you can enjoy the show?
Hey, I read books! On my Ipad. 🙂
Welcome and whatever you do, don’t drink anything offered to you!
Bri! I have a fresh pitcher of purple flavored Koo-Aid! Want some?
On Mon, Mar 2, 2015 at 3:37 PM, Tamara Tattles wrote:
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I am really starting to feel that way 2! These women are so destructive and for what a paycheck? Shows how much they value themselves and the ones who bring their families along for the ride should be ashamed. It just seems they recycle all the scenes every other week. I am beginning to feel my intelligence is being insulted, my brain cells are diminishing! I need to work my brain out on something more challenging with substance.
RHOA is only hanging there by a thin thread for me. I think I watch what’s left of it out of habit. You are right. We are the problem and why this shit proliferates. We watch. It is like a dying dinosaur at this point. It really has evolved, but not in a good way. So we have to evolve and change the channel and not talk about it. I wouldn’t miss it if all the HW franchises disappeared tomorrow. I too wondered why we as an audience are interested in the brawls and cat fights. I’ve never been interested before in this type of shit. I think initially it was the shock of it that made me curious, and now it is cloying to the sensibilities, there is no shock, there is just “why am I watching this.” Have we devolved to the days of the Roman coliseum where hedonism was watching someone mauled to death or killed for entertainment. If you think about it, it’s sort of a blood sport all dressed up. I really can’t wait for it to go away and all the little non-celebrity personalities can fade back into oblivion from whence they came. Now that would make me smile. Bye, bye bitches.
It’s funny how we seem to revel with anticipated satisfaction after someone becomes exposed for their bullshit. We sit by waiting and agonizing for the protagonist to finally come clean and “confess their sin” even though that rarely happens. I’ve noticed reality tv is a place for viewers to debate, sharpen, and rejustify their own moral values and codes.
I like your perspective!
That is awesome. I agree. I think you nailed it.
“But this season, when a new Bentley arrives in her co-stars driveway, Leakes is not so happy for Moore. Leakes claims that the Prince does not exist. “
That is somewhat thought provoking and I don’t mean it in a BS way at all. Because think of all the Nene fans. I do not agree with Nene on most anything, but obviously her perspective and projections of life, happiness, success, etc, ring very true with a lot of people.
You said that Tamara! I have not watched an episode since they ladies (and I use this word loosely) couldn’t believe Apollo lied about textgate. It was so stupid and incomprehensible to me that was so inconceivable to them. What happened to the days of The Real Housewives of the OC, when it was all fun.
I don’t watch any of these so-called reality shows. I come here to laugh because TT’s blog (and the responses) are my comedic relief. I read a fabulous book over the weekend (while fasting): H is for Hawk by Helen McDonald. Check it out if you want some relief from the kool-aid.
I’ve watched Atlanta since the beginning but now it is just boring and stupid. All the name calling and whining and fussing. Just boring and I think the time has come to stop watching. Good post T!
We still watch (at least I do) because it’s a hard habit to break, and I have a curiosity about where things will go/what will happen. Of course, at this point it’s mostly hate-watching on my part rather than genuine interest.
I think the only way to fix it is to put actual reality back into the “reality”.
Ever seen the original reality show, An American Family? It first aired on PBS in 1973. Filmmakers documented the lives of a family over the course of 6 months. When I was living in NYC in 1993 the PBS station there re-ran it for its 20th anniversary. (It’s been available elsewhere since and there was a made-for-HBO movie about it a couple years ago) It was truly compelling television. Magnetic, even. Why? Because the family truly opened up their lives to the filmmakers. There were no “story arcs” or contrivances. (Save one scene shot for exposition). Viewers became invested in this family’s day-to-day lives; we felt their pain and shared their joys.
In the first season or two of Orange County, this was also the case, albeit to a lesser extent. No one was shilling a jewelry/fashion/sex toy line, and they all had real jobs or were actual housewives. Seeing their real lives is what was interesting.
Today, no one wants to open up their life. Instead, they want to play the role of a personality type and hawk products. Therefore, we have to watch contrived situations and now-old Housewives tropes (vow renewal, launch party, beef-quelling “sit-down”, etc.) over and over again. Otherwise, there’d be no show at all.
Pare down the casts in all of the cities to just the women who will film their actual lives, and make that the show. THAT I’d watch with relish.
The early days of OC had a documentary feel to them. Was that back when Bravo still wanted to be kind of artsy?
If you want Housewives tropes, check out the Real Housewives of Cheshire. Last episode I watched, literally EVERY scene had been scripted from another franchise. I had seen everything before. It was so transparent. Thank goodness most of the US franchises haven’t gotten quite so bad yet.
Cinema Vierti (I think) with Dianne Lane! I discovered the gem on HBO on the anniversary and then made it my business to find out all I could. It was excellent and real.
I think you mean Cinema Verite/Vérité (2011) with Diane Lane
Cinema Verite,’ barbinga. I enjoyed it as well and Googled the family to find out what happened to everyone. It’s a CRAZY story and it fascinated me. I had no idea this had been done even prior to the first Real World.
I’ve been wanting to stop for months. Finally, when cable was no longer included in my rent, it was disconnected. Best thing that ever happened to me! I am fine with a few broadcast channels. Most of the shows I watch are on Fox, anyway.
The only thing I miss about cable is commenting here. I can’t really comment if I don’t watch the shows.
I agree. I can barely tolerate RHOA anymore. They definitely went in the completely wrong direction this season. Stick a fork in it.
Very well said TT!!!
I think it’s watching the worst in people that is entertaining. We could never act like that in our own social circles, but maybe wish we could sometimes?
*written,not said :-\
Wow. I was just thinking the other day about how much time I waste popping on and off here – no offense! – and why so many seemingly smart people, yourself included TT, watch and comment on these narcissists day in and day out.
They are like tv junk food – tasty and filling and habit forming, but ultimately leave you bloated and hating yourself.
Ten years ago, I could never imagine myself watching this stuff. We didn’t even have a TV for 12 years when my kids were growing up. How did I get here? I like it here because none of my friends or family watch these shows, and this is my virtual water cooler. I don’t tell anyone that I watch these, either.
You raised some very fine points, TT, and I get the sense that you, like me and others, want more. I wonder if the fact that you have sworn off cigarettes and booze for Lent is bringing some clarity to your world. I know you had mentioned months ago that you wanted to wean us off these shows by recapping better stuff. Sorry to be so longwinded, but you just really triggered something with this post.
Don’t leave us yet, Katherine! We’re going to try to do better. Maybe. 🙂
On Mon, Mar 2, 2015 at 3:20 PM, Tamara Tattles wrote:
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Oh, TT, I am not leaving! I want to stick around and see your next incarnation. You’re funny and smart. You will think of something.
I only watch RHoBH, Vanderpump Rules, and the Jeff Lewis shows. I live in Los Angeles and work next to Beverly Hills–so it’s fun seeing locations I recognize. Vanderpump Rules is close to perfect, but there’s a lot of RHoBH that I dislike, all centering around Kim and Brandi. My favorite reality shows are anything with Jeff Lewis. The RH shows should take a hint from Jeff–the center is about the work and the crazy orbits around that. Of course, that means housewives have to do something besides pretend to be sober and hate each other. I guess the shows are like cigarettes or chocolate, but without the cancer or calories. I work second shift in a clinical laboratory in a major hospital. When I get home, I am exhausted and brain dead–perfect time to lie on the couch and enjoy Kristen’s crazy, Lisa Vanderpump’s newest puppy or pink diamond, and anything connected to Zoila.
Yes I love Jeff Lewis too. My absolute favorite show. My husband will even watch him with me. I also liked Tabitha’s show. But I don’t know what happened with that one.
LOVE Jeff Lewis–can’t wait to see more. Of the HW shows, I still like parts of Beverly Hills, but getting really tired of Brandi and Kim. Over Atlanta–can’t even bother to catch up on the episodes on the DVR. But back to Jeff Lewis….
I’d watch a show featuring Claudia and the other ladies you mentioned TT. I’d like to see the city of Atlanta featured more because I’ve only driven through there and I’ve always wanted to stop and prowl around. It’d be fun watching Claudia, a young, single, attractive and confident woman who is new in town, going around the city with the other ladies who also seem fun and would like to be there, unlike Nene. She stopped being funny to me last season and just annoyed the shit out of me. And before her followers flip out on me, no, I’m not that impressed with her so called “hustle”. She peddles her crappy merchandise and not as well as most of the other housewives who do the same things. And yes, I know she’s an “actress”. Meh
Yeah, a positive show like the one TT described would be fun! I’ve commented before that the scenes of Claudia, Cynthia, and Kenya were a nice break, and there was no big blow up, cranky Kandi, and showing off handbags, or promoting anything. Just the girls laughing and having fun.
Demetria can come, too.
I’ve actually stopped watching the shows and keep up via your recaps. I did watch the last two episodes of RHBH though. They need to add more Eilennes and Lisa R’s to the other shows cast and have less Kim, Kenya, Aviva, Adianna, to name just a few, ladies who do nothing but bring drama and not in a good way.
This!!! Thank you.
“We are tired of all the “reading.” In fact, we are tired of even hearing the word “read” used in that context by so many people who probably are not literate enough to do much reading at all in the literal sense.”
Yup, I second, third, fourth and fifth that!
To me, these show are a replacement for soap operas (and the cancelations and falling ratings for soaps support that premise). I used to never miss Y&R and Guiding Light — I remember scheduling classes in college to be free when “my stories” (as my grandma called them) were on. I taped (and then DVR’d) them when I started working — but 10 hours of “stories” a week was A LOT of TV commitment. With these shows, I’m only committed to 2 hours a week at most and I still get the same “escape” into luxury and over-the-top drama that the soaps provided. Or, at least I used too because you are correct that the storylines have turned too nasty with the threats of physical violence and actual violence. Maybe it’s time to go back to Y&R.
If these shows are going to replace soaps, Imma need to see some a these bitches burned alive, with evil twins, and pregnant by their daughters boyfriends. Otherwise they are just annoying bitches. Except for Tre, she at least went to prison.
On Mon, Mar 2, 2015 at 3:42 PM, Tamara Tattles wrote:
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Best post to date. I’m out after the reunion. I struggle to watch, and hate just about every one of them for one reason or another. The storylines are beyond trite, and overly staged. I don’t really want to know that my reality TV is far from reality.
And you also hit the nail on the head about TGIT on ABC. “Scandal” has lost my attention, and HTGAWM confuses me…
“Let’s just give Claudia her own show about living in Atlanta and working at Dish Nation. We can see her dating and hanging out with Kenya and Cynthia and Demetria.”
Yes!! And add Marlo in the mix. And let’s call it Real Housewives of Atlanta.
In short, let’s just cut the dead weight that’s currently on the show – like you said Tamara, there are way too many ladies.
I’ve said this to my friends/coworker and anyone else who would listen. We are very busy women navigating this crazy world. Many of us have FT jobs and everything that comes along with that (dealing with multiple personalities and people throwing daggers, keeping up with the new trends/technology in our fields and the like) managing our homes and children – its not enough to provide food and clothing, we have to teach them things they cannot learn in school, how to be decent human beings and contribute to society. Some of us have business, church, volunteering, or divorced and trying to find a decent guy who will not send me a d!ck pic before the first date. We also have to read the paper and watch the news to find out what the hell is going on capital hill and the rest of the world. We have to try and plan meals, eat right and work out… we have to know who’s the latest threat to our country and what the hell Monsanto is putting in our food. All this and we must find a way to look halfway decent doing it….sometimes you need something mindless and silly to just completely take your mind off of the fact that you feel like you could drown in your piles of to do lists and post it note reminders….and it helps that looking at the heffas make me feel slightly better about myself…lol 🙂 Personally reality TV is ok…but there must be balance.
TT, I neglected to say that your assessment of the show and possible improvements are spot on. The same stale formula is getting stale.
I am with the idea of Claudia having her own show but in addition to Kenya and Demetria being friends of the show, add Marlo. That brings the sizzle. I don’t like Marlo one iota but she brings the juice.
I agree with you. Why are we watching this? It’s like when I was younger I used to watch bad girls club, after a while it started to all be the same. They’re all trying to be the head bitch in charge and they all fight each other. It got old, real quick. I find myself feeling like this with all the housewife shows. It’s getting to all be the same pointless fighting nobody wants to see. I watch rhoa a few days after I record it on Sunday because it’s just pretty boring now. I watch now when I’m bored and nothing else on.
If you’re looking for a good TV show, I highly recommend House of Lies with Kristen Bell and Don Cheadle. Very entertaining look at the world of high-end business consulting.
I’ve been so over the shows for a while. I am actually embarrassed to tell some people that I watch them. So of course I have asked myself over and over WHY do I watch this crap. I think mostly I enjoy reading your posts cause I love laughter better than anything. Your take on each episode has me laughing my ass off almost every time. I am so very embarrassed for these women making such fools of themselves and of course they do it for the money. We don’t get paid for watching, so it must be the laughter. When you post about other shows and human interest stories, I find myself enjoying those even more because there is so much more for us to discuss rather than who read who and which Bravo employee is going to prison this year. Let’s face it, we don’t really know these people and the more we watch them the less I want to know them. You can blog about anything but the housewives and I will still be coming here hanging on every word.
I’ve stopped all but NY and OC (and they are on the chopping block). In addition, I quit watching Dance Moms. The negativity is too much. From the reality realm (other than Survivor and Amazing Race), I pretty much only still enjoy Shahs of Sunset. If that goes the same way of the housewives franchise, I’ll stop that too. Life’s too short. I’d much rather spend my evenings with zombies or that broken (morally, not famile) (but hilarious) family in Shameless.
Love Million Dollar Listing LA and NY! Also watch Shahs, NY, BH, Vanderpump, and OC. I fast forward thru Atlanta as I can no longer bear to listen to these women ruin the English language! And I only watch Atlanta to hopefully see Todd DUMP Kandi. Stopped watching NJ very early on; did not like any of the cast.
Million Dollar Listing, LA–love that one too!
I don’t watch Atlanta anymore. It went from smart snarky comments to outright idiotic brutish behaviour. I like my ladies witty not gritty.
Very well said!
This^^
I have not watched the last four RHOA episodes and only catch up in print media. As if my one viewer number counts in the whole scheme of ratings. I was pretty much done when ‘cunt’ was used more that 10 times in an episode. None of players are successful, satisfied, interesting or admirable. It’s watching the worst part of a human being.There is a pattern in production and casting with Bravo and Andy seems to salivate on the hate.
I actually gave up a couple episodes in this season, and RHOA was the only Housewives show I ever watched. I had been watching RHOA since the end of season 1 but I just can’t deal with it anymore.
I agree with everything you said. I actually used to like Phaedra and Kandi, but seeing how fake the Phaedra situation is and how shitty of a wife Kandi is have been the final straws.
I would NEVER allow my mother to be such a horrible cunt. I would never have such a vicious prenup. I would never willingly be on a show when my children’s lives are being ruined by their disgusting criminal piece of shit father. Phaedra should have taken the season off.
And you hit it straight on the head with the bit about reading. I love a good burn, but it is just too much and too vicious.
I enjoyed the show when it seemed like actual friends hanging out and doing fun stuff together.
Lots of ‘food for thought’ in this post. I have often asked myself why I watch too. Several reasons! I think I mostly watch out of curiosity to see how these women live. Often, I am appalled at these women and their behavior and even though things are scripted I cant believe these women sign these contracts to act like 7th graders. They basically are selling their soul and dignity for the entertainment of Andy Cohen. I think I am going to stop watching all the shows after the reunions this year. Its a waste of my time. I can come here and read TT’s blog and hear all about the foolish ways of these women on reality tv. By not watching I can get caught up on some great shows on Netflix. These women need to just stop with the horseshit.
The HW shows used to be about watching really wealthy women and how sometimes they had crazy rich lady problems but then sometimes they had problems like ordinary people. The 1st season of OC was really interesting and the women were actually rich and accomplished. Its just garbage now.
Watching Porsha makes me realize people are actually watching a prostitute’s life on television as entertainment and that disgusts me more than I can say.
Big topic TT and oh-so-timely. I realized that for Lent, it should have been RH’s reality tv that I junked cold turkey. Are you ready to revamp your site? Because I’d absolutely read your take on any other shows (you’ve said before you’d like to do that.)
I mean, there’s a reason I don’t watch Jerry Springer. That’s what these have turned into––they’re not what they seemed like at the beginning. It makes no sense that my viewership should support Andy’s seeming hate for women.
I think you just have to step back and be a casual viewer she you get to feeling like it’s too much. I mean..it’s still funny and baffling. It’s rediculous a
Oops. Hit post too soon.
I think you just have to step back and be a casual viewer she you get to feeling like it’s too much. I mean..it’s still funny and baffling. It’s ridiculous and over the top. I like watching Atlanta and then Downton Abbey. It’s like a diabetic diet. You have to balance your sugar with protein and vitamins.
I wish Miami would come back. Not sure I can take the Shahs. We shall see.
Of note about Atlanta: they have replaced the word “adulteress” with “whore”. Not sure if they don’t know the word or just can’t pronounce it (not that I spect that to stop them). But while being a whore is a victimless act and not so much a crime in my eyes, being an adultress is pretty fucked up and unforgivable.
How funny, the trailer trash thinks a soap opera dressed up in period garb is the prime jewel of television befitting the juxtaposition of real housewives.
Lol. Yeah. I’m trailer trash. You seem damaged. And…kinda clueless.
Jesus. Can’t I even be the trailer trash without having to share with you?
On Tue, Mar 3, 2015 at 8:15 AM, Tamara Tattles wrote:
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I’ve had many a disagreement online with people about what the word “whore” actually means. Seems to be a common misconception out there that it means adulteress.
I cancelled my cable a year ago. I just want to talk about criminals and trials. You could recap Criminal Minds? There’s a New season of it. I can’t watch the HW shows anymore. I tried to watch Beverly Hills on YouTube but I hate Brandi and Kim.
Ooh, I second that vote!
This post is EVERYTHING. Nailed it. I only watch Atlanta and NYC and I’m pretty sure I’m done at the end of this season. Claudia has been a fun distraction but she is quickly becoming just like the rest of them. Someone finally reading Nene was great- now let’s all move on.
I’d much rather watch a show about their businesses- Heather on NY, Kandy (up until this season anyways), Lisa, etc. The ones who have real self-made success. Not about their stupid staff drama but about boss women in leadership roles- that would be a great reality show. As an added bonus people like Nene and Porsha wouldn’t make the cut. Wishful thinking.
Well stated Tamara…standing O! I have watched each of the HW series since they first started, and have drop kicked some when the casting or storylines are awful. ATL could be very decent if they would just drop Nene. There were real storylines (Kim, Sheree, Lisa Wu) before NN became the Queen of Mean and scared everyone off the show. I watch it now to support my faves. I think the audience really has some influence @ Bravo…but the ratchet faction are loudest on social media.
You’re right. And that’s why Maury still has a job.
You’re correct about the audience influence and the ratchet factor. The HW are not scripted towards the audience that gravitates to this site and is allowed beyond the fence by TT. Although many of TT’s contributors watch or have watched the HW evolve, most figured out early on that there was manipulation of the storylines and the roles being played which neutralizes the bad behavior. How can it be truly bad behavior when it is scripted?
What is disturbing are the elements Bravo weaves into the script that are factual (drug and alcohol abuse, bankruptcies, scams, sex for financial gain, etc.) but those scenes are provided by the cast members’ free will for a salary. Until they choose to change their destiny there is nothing that can be done for them.
On the outside of the fence the majority of viewers cannot be convinced that it isn’t honest-to-God real life and clamor for more drama and fisticuffs. Springer has shown there is huge success in providing this sort of entertainment and Bravo stepped up to the plate and found a few normal individuals and a whole gaggle of freaks to entertain the masses.
Most of the time I find the shenanigans to be comedic relief and I enjoy coming to this site to read, add and debate the cast and their behavior.
It’s fake TV. Entertainment. Sad at times but there are so many events in life that are worse and if someone wants to show me their ass on TV and act the fool, I’m going to watch.
If this mess means that Andy Cohen is finally falling on his ass and failing…I am a happy camper.
TT,
I’ve been following you since your first post. At the time I was still watching RHs of everywhere. I stopped watching due to many of the resons you mentioned today and because the women started to stress me out. My blood pressure would rise watching the shows. It was not worth the aggravation.
I never stopped reading your recaps, they kept me up to date as I was still curious. I love your view point and your sarcasm. The comments are another reason I keep reading, multiple times a day. I love to laugh. I don’t understand how some people get so defensive nd caught up in defending one HW or another. There’s no fun in that and brings the ugly, but you deal with it I’m your own unique way. I stopped commenting on the show, because like Cat said above, I couldn’t comment or give an opinion if I didn’t watch.
This post today was perfection. Better yet re the comments. Most all agree with you. People are tired of the same old Bravo formula. But it is a testament to your writing skills that people continue to follow you simply for your point of view and ability to entertain.
Switch it up. Recap what you will. Just keep on blogging. Please! There would be a definite void if you chose to stop. You will find another niche that will satisfy you’re creative outlet and you can rest assured that most of us will still be here.
Agreed.
I hear ya, but it’s still a great guilty pleasure. I still love all the shows. I fast forward through Kandi and some of the other stuff, but it’s still fun to me. With all the horror in the real world, this is still a great escape. To me. Not many good shows on tv to me but Good Wife, Better Call Saul, Modern Family, Blackish, and Scandal. Oh, the voice is ok, too. To me, that’s it at night. You’ve gotta get to Netflix to get House of Cards, which is implausible, but still good to watch. The Good Wife is really smartly written tv, which is why the ratings suck.
I keep hoping for some redemption. Like Kenya’s head will pop out of her ass and like a phoenix…rise up out of the ashes. Like Bethany…or better. If she could give AC the middle finger, that would be grand!
Escaping reality is the battle cry of all in recovery. What if we rewrote and suggested storylines? We all talk “coulda, woulda, and shoulda.” A contest? I’d rather watch someone elses reality, than my own.
It’s not just the HW’s of everywhere that follow the same old, tired old, worn out formula from season to season. I generally read about the HW’s here first because I can’t stay awake long enough to catch it the first time it’s on. After I read TT’s recap, and the rerun comes on. I can barely tolerate watching it. Married to Medicine, Basketball Wives, Total Divas, etc., etc., etc. . . . Don’t they all follow the same hateful format?
Where in the real world would a group of women continue to hang out together when they despise each other to the point of violence. It’s all just so stupid and scripted, it no longer holds my interest.
But then again, doesn’t Shahs of Sunset (my favorite show) come on tonight? And of course, they are just as bad. But I haven’t seen them in a while. Count me in on Jeff Lewis. Love him. And Crissley Knows Best. He is hilarious. And even though his show is obviously scripted, it’s not hateful or violent or vindictive.
Personally I gave up watching these shows a couple years ago. I just like to read the witty recaps and snark. I couldn’t bother wasting my time watching these messes.
Well I’m slowly weaning myself off of bravo. I gave up on RHONY a few seasons back and RHOA for the last two seasons. I watch RHOC but I don’t watch every single episode so I guess that’ll be the next one I ditch! But I still faitfly watch RHOBH
I loved secrets and lies. Great show.
I agree these shows have become trash. I used to like the guilty pleasure of a distraction to watch when my babies would nap at some point in the week but now it is just not entertaining anymore and there are so many other good dramas out there to catch when I have the time. I still like reading this blog and the recaps.
I’m actually watching secrets and lies now. it is good.
On Tue, Mar 3, 2015 at 12:03 AM, Tamara Tattles wrote:
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“I loved secrets and lies. Great show.”
I watched the two hour premier and am hooked. Favorite fiction show atm is Better Call Saul. Soooo good.
You mean the americanised version of the aussie show? Why not just watch the aussie version?
Oooh, there is an Aussie version? Will see if I can find it on Netflix, thanks Michael!
My reason for watching is to be able to gossip about a person that isn’t actually in my circle so I don’t feel bad about it. Watching these shows have taught me a few things about myself though. I have learned being judgmental almost certainly means you will go through the same thing you are judging another on. The most amazing thing to me is these women see themselves on tv and still don’t change their behavior. I would be mortified to see myself behaving the way some do.
Lady Violet, on Downton Abbey’s season finale last night, summed it up: “”There is a point at which malice ceases to be amusing.”
I’ve watched all of the HW shows at one time or another – including DC, which I actually liked. I stopped watching OC a few years ago – really can’t stand any of the characters. Stopped watching NJ last season, and Atlanta this season. Never really got into Miami. Stopped watching NY when Aviva’s dad entered the picture, and find I have no desire to re-engage even though he’s no longer around and Bethenny has returned. I still watch BH – I’m not sure why, as I detest the Kim/Kyle/Brandi characters/story lines this season, and the plot lines are so ridiculous. I guess it’s an addiction I just don’t want to give up.
I do read most TT’s recaps for most of the shows. Other than BH, my 2 reality show faves are anything Top Chef related and The Voice.
It’s funny how many people don’t watch the shows anymore and just read the recaps (myself being one of these people). I find the recaps witty and entertaining where the shows no longer are. I do watch Top Chef and Project Runway even though the producers are doing their best to ruin those shows as well. It seems as though a lot of recappers (and I really only read NYMag and TT) are getting sick of having to recap this crap as well and make into something worth writing about. I hope you figure it out, because I really enjoy your blog.
It’s like riding past a horrific accident. You know it’s bad but you just have tolook . Fascination with the macabre perhaps is why I still peek. Rarely catch first run, usually only reruns during the week if I read something aboutwhat hhappened and just want to see it for myself. Seems like the networks both cable and broadcast are getting desperate. Netflix will give them a good run.
I find that I watch less, and less and less often. And when I do, I don’t enjoy it at all. Too annoying, scripted, ridiculously dramatic. Buh-bye RHO..everything!
I so agree with this comment – the shows are annoying, scripted, and ridiculously dramatic. Would also like to add that these women are horrible actors and getting paid way too much money to pimp themselves out.
Applause!!
Dear TT: In almost every blog I have followed over the years, sooner or later, “they ask your question o f why”. Some have taken breaks, QUIT, or have been sued, before “logging permanently off”. There are several answers for this, many of them touched on them here. First and foremost, I watch to make myself feel better. I believe in women, and support them. Yet this type of tv moves us back. It shows women in the way before equality- where they had to be desperate, vindictive, and manipulative, in order to stay alive or supported. It is produced by queens (sorry, but fact) who want us to be portrayed as high strung nasty bitches- for a laugh, and to support how they want to be. We watch to escape the angst of having to do better, and take the high road. Even when we do, this type of TV makes us righteous. Many of the younger girls watch, and like the nastiness, and expect trashy drama. That worries me for society. In the long term, most will walk away, or take long breaks ( as I have) in order to move on, or hopefully pass to a better stage of life. In the meantime, hit the happy pill button!
I’ve been a lurker for several months, and reading this post made me come out of the “shadow” – so happy to discover that I’m not alone in thinking that Bravo is killing the series! I began watching the first season of Orange County. I was slightly acquainted with a woman who lived in Cota de Caza, and I was nosy and eager to see just how “exclusive” the area was. I loved it in the beginning. The woman were mostly supportive of each other. I’m sure there was some snark and gossiping, but I don’t recall any major drama or nastiness between the ladies. The first season of NJ, I loved the interaction of the families. Now, nastiness is all they seem to want to show. And ENOUGH with all the whore-calling! I often find myself thinking that I hope that no teens are watching these shows without their mothers present to offer critiques….as in “this is how women AREN’T supposed to behave!” I thought Andy was a hoot for the first few years. I don’t know if he has gotten worse or if I am just getting sick of his shtick. It seems like he is having way too much fun pitting women against each other, and they seem more than willing to air their dirty laundry (whether real or engineered) in public for a fat paycheck. How many of these couples are going to end up in divorce or bankruptcy court due to appearing on these shows? I’m still mostly watching the shows – I have no problem in admitting that I like to watch a little drama 🙂 But sheesh, if I keep feeling angry or stressed after watching an episode, I’m going to have to give it up and find something actually productive to do with my time.
Bravo! Perceptive commentary. Your idea for a Claudia spin- off is a really good suggestion. I would definitely watch it. Totally agree that Atlanta Housewives is past it’s ” sell by” date. Utterly unwatchable!
I love your blog. I was a rabid housewives/bravo watcher. Would never change channel. Now I just leave the t.v. off and read your blog. If I get weak and turn it on, like last night, I cannot stand it anymore. Give me Kroy & family. Not all this. Last night I turned to watch golden girls. But you know what? We had a normal housewives – D.C. Ok, pretty normal. How long did that last? You are right. We created, or at least fed, this monster.
Well I actually think If they filmed Porsha being a hooker that would be interesting enough to me to give her her own show. I know when I watch less housewives I’m happier. It’s a chicken and egg thing. I care less about it when I’m busy and happy, but also it doesn’t ever nourish me or make me feel good when I’m down either. That’s just my personal experience.
I enjoy analyzing the fights and misconceptions but when it gets really really nasty and childish or they resort to physical contact, I just can’t. Which seems to be all of Atlanta and Orange County now.
The setups are not what turn me off, it’s the women believing everything they’re told by the producers off camera and then turning into raging lunatics over a lie.
I would totally watch a spinoff of Porsha hooking and then going to church. Sadly, they can’t openly show her alleged tricking because she would get arrested (again).
On Mon, Mar 2, 2015 at 8:53 PM, Tamara Tattles wrote:
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I’ve always been curious if our favorite housewife franchises are the city nearest us or with the type of people we most relate to or if some franchises are just better than others.
Such an on point article summarizing all I’ve been thinking plus even more.
My DVR is set to record new episodes, so it automatically records the ten minute previews of the upcoming eps, and guess what? That all you need to watch. It recaps the previous episode and gives you any new material. When an entire hour long show can be condensed into a seven minute show, you have problems.
I read your recaps then determine if I should watch and if so what to FF through. Bottom line for me is that I can’t believe these women and men are stupid/desperate enough to do this crap for a bit of money. That and how intelligent women like us still come back to watch the Tom foolery.
are you watching married at first sight: the first year? it’s pretty good.
and orphan black, season 3, starts apr 18. hoping it’s good; unsure, now they’re adding boy clones & the ugly weird guy has the role.
i’m disgusted by all the housewives shows at this point.
oooh remind me again when Orphan Black is closer to starting…
http://s17948.p858.sites.pressdns.com/?s=Orphan+Black
On Mon, Mar 2, 2015 at 10:19 PM, Tamara Tattles wrote:
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Tamara, as so often happens, you perfectly put into words what I think and feel about these shows. Where Bravo use to be a staple of my tv viewing, I’ve moved on from most it and watch, often reluctantly, only a few shows on the network. I watch more scripted shows then I have in years and although I don’t often comment on your scripted show recaps, I read and enjoy most of them. But I still love your Bravo recaps, even if I no longer watch the shows. They lend themselves to your particular brand of snark and I often still spit my coffee through my nose laughing at your brilliant observations.
Hopefully some Bravo spy will read this post and take notice.
***applause***
I don’t watch anymore, not since I realized the women never really share the truth. Fake, repetitive nonsense. I do love your witty recaps and enjoy the comments. I finally got Netflix and watched Orange is the New Black and House of Cards. Quality entertainment, no trashy housewives with FAKE story lines.
Netflix has ruined me for regular TV. Some really amazing shows coming this year too – Bloodline looks REALLY good, as does the new comedy one with Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin.
Well TT as usual you come with a correct assessment of us all, and the HW shows. I agree with you and Valentina (above) Continuing to watch these shows is turning our brains to…Kool-Aid (?) And it is like watching never-ending train wrecks that it’s hard to turn away from. I won’t say I will go cold turkey, but I am going to make a conscious effort to wean myself away. Maybe if enough of us do that Bravo (and some other networks too) will get the hint. Meanwhile, I am a rabid Empire fan, Downton Abbey, Mr Selfridge. The Haves and The Have Nots, The peoples Couch, AHS, just bunches of other GOOD stuff out there for our entertainment, that wont turn our brains to Kool-Aid. Nothing against Real Kool-Aid. Lol
And Netflix is a life saver!
The expression jumping the shark jumped the shark.
I love reality tv so much, but even I am sick of the housewives. I gave up on NJ, NY, and quit a RHOA for awhile. BH has just about lost me as a viewer as I can’t stand Brandi and the Kim storyline just keeps on repeating its self. I still like RHOC (minus Tamra) bite me! Seriously though one can only take so much of crazy faced grown woman fighting in sausage casings covered in glitter. Time for a new recipe or time to move on.
Loved the comment about the “lady garden”. Never heard it before priceless. I would so love to see Empire discussions it’s my new fav show.
TT: I would love to see a follow-up post on this, and ask who HONESTLY went off the reality shows and who couldn’t break the habit. Because it looks like a damn good portion of your commenters claim they’re done…
T, excellent post and you are 1000% correct. I almost feel dirty after watching an episode. I also feel numb. I gave up RHNJ, RHNY and RHOC
but was holding onto RHBH. The only reason I watched this season of Atlanta was to see how Kenya handled the Apollo prison story. I love Blacklist, Madam Secretary, Downton Abbey, and more and wish that I had friends to discuss those shows with each week. (sigh) But I will still read your blogs, because they are the best entertainment. JenB
The fact that RHOBH has two soap opera actresses as part of the cast is very suspicious. I would love to know what is fake and what is real, trying to figure that out is the only reason I watch anymore.
I too love Netflix, cool movies, documentaries and fun “TV like” programs, and no commercials!
Watch “You’ve been Trumped” and you will hate him as much as I do!!
TT how about a Netflix post where we can recommend good shows since it’s kind of hard to search on Netflix.
@natalie where do I find “You’ve been Trumped”? Is that on Netflix or a network?
@eg I watched it through Netflix, it is still there. Its a documentary.
Nah, it seems like hating Trump takes up a lot of your time. I’d hate to dedicate that much time to watching shows about people to further fuel my hatred.
On Tue, Mar 3, 2015 at 10:34 AM, Tamara Tattles wrote:
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@natalie Thanks for heads up on that documentary.
I tweeted to Bravo at the end of last season that they all needed to be replaced. Every single one of them. This show is predictable and tired.
Clearly. your opinion is important.
On Tue, Mar 3, 2015 at 11:37 AM, Tamara Tattles wrote:
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For me it is more of an escape from my reality. I am dying and when I need a mental break with nothing of emotion it helps. Also you and all the comments on here always make me laugh and try to not take things to serious. I am watching my husband pack to get me to the Mayo clinic but really wanted to thank you and thank all the people who post funny, silly comments. I wish you all well and hope I am making since on many meds. Thank you!!! You have been great support and not even know it, Amy .
Thoughts and prayers to you, Amy.
Hope you get Internet access at the hospital kiddo! I’ll be sure to call someone a vile (but kinda funny) name for you!
On Tue, Mar 3, 2015 at 12:29 PM, Tamara Tattles wrote:
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I wonder the same thing often. Are they are a reflection of our own dysfunctions and somehow we watch the train wrecks with vain hope for them… And or to cope with ours. Tv sensationalizes the issues to a morbid degree and we continue to watch in a transfixed intoxicating trance. But then I come to the conclusion, I’m dealing with numbers, interpersonal conflicts, problem solving… Blah blah all day at work… This mindless entertainment seems to give me a sense of relief from the days issues. Still not enough to justify the hostility that fills the living room and extends its stress.
Nene who?
Call me crazy but my favorite Real Housewives franchise was the Washington DC version, sure it had some dramatic moments but overall the “ratchness” was relatively low and all of those ladies had something to offer and when I heard the cast banded together to refuse filming with the White House crashers I was thrilled that they didn’t sell out, that was the real reason why DC was canceled the ratings were not the issue because they beat averaged about 1.6 million viewers which at that time was pretty good for a freshmen Real housewives series. The Real Housewives needs to return to its roots and get off this Love and Hip Hop type of foolery if it wants to continue to thrive.
You’re crazy!
Pure escapism for me. I loathe to admit I even watch these shows and yet, can’t wait to read all the recaps, comments, etc. At the end of the day, I know I might not ever fly on my private jet to some beautiful locale only to screetch and whine and hair-pull like American gutter bitches and I feel smug about that. Money doesn’t buy you class or decorum. And thats why I continue to watch because I may be poor but I have my dignity. Mama taught me how to act like a lady…if I can’t have the lifestyles, at least I have that. And I feel better about things. But I got bored with NY mid-season as well as Jersey. And I’ve never been fond of ATL.
I have a request Tamra. Have u ever watched sister wives? It’s kind of sick and wierd but fascinating at the same time and Initiates some interesting debate on the nets. Their season just ended but maybe u could recap them next season if you feel inclined. I’m pretty hopelessly addicted to reality TV. Not sure I can be helped but best I can do is not start watching any new shows unless there’s some major buzz that it’s worthwhile.
I wish producers would stop interfering so much in reality TV in general. That seems to be a problem across the board in the whole reality TV industry. Even old giants like survivor are almost unwatchable and hard to follow because all they do is hide idols and film ppl rooting around in the dirt. And then there are about 8 idols floating around and no one even can follow what’s happening strategy wise. We don’t even get to know the cast’s personalities on any kind of meaningful level like we did in the early years. Makes me sad. :'(
I stopped watching RHOA several seasons ago. I just read it here
Can you recap Secrets and Lies?
I just saw the first episode. Is the next one tonight?
On Thu, Mar 5, 2015 at 7:47 AM, Tamara Tattles wrote:
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As I watch the show, I fully aware of the ratchet buffoonery of it all. My real life is nothing like the show and I am fully aware that they are not role models for any facet of my life. I enjoy mocking and slant agreeing with the various #teams that sprout up. They’re hilarious and I don’t even think they mean to be. I’m not missing any checks due to any of their antics…