Tiny & Toya: The Sisters Next Door?

I doubt there are many people out there who feel BET's bad rap is unjustified. I don't know many people who are faithful fans of the network. Why? One reason is that we seldom see reflections of ourselves in the programming.

However, as much as I hate to admit it, I can relate to "Tiny & Toya." I'm not a single mom. I don't wear weaves or need subtitles when I speak (unless English is not your first language), but these two women seem genuine. They seem like two women who are simply trying to better themselves. Toya is an aspiring author, and Tiny wants to return to the music business. Viewers get to see their professional and personal struggles. If you can get passed the accents, it's a decent show; I think.

Although I watch both shows, I'd have to say that "Tiny & Toya" offers a better depiction of black women than the popular "Housewives of Atlanta." So far, no one on "Tiny & Toya" has cursed anyone out. No one's been accused of sex with married men. No one's gotten physically aggressive, and there seems to be no hateration.

Honestly, it's kind of nice to see the "Tiny & Toya" type of sisterhood on TV. I can actually relate to that; although, subtitles would help.

Do you watch? What do you think of the show?

Starmaker: Not Just Another Diddy Reality Show

MTV premiered a new reality show last tonight. Just like "Making the Band," "Making His Band" and "I Want to Work for Diddy," this show is executive produced by none other than ...

...wait for it ... Diddy!

I was surprised today when a friend told me that Diddy is planning to release an album soon. It's shocking that he'd have time between popping up all over MTV's primetime lineup.

I was also surprised that the show was kinda good. After so many reality show singing competitions, I wasn't expecting anything new, but Diddy's group of wannabes can actually sing. They were entertaining, and no one was up their performing for the sole purpose of being the morning's funniest clip on YouTube. Even those that got negative feedback from the judges were 100 times better than the worst of "American Idol."

Now, will Diddy find someone to turn into a star? After his "Making the Band" failures, I doubt it, but like those other shows, it's entertaining for now, and that's really all that matters from the viewers' standpoint.

Find out more about the show here.
http://www.mtv.com/ontv/dyn/starmaker/series.jhtml

ANTM: The Cycle Continues

A new crop of wannabe models make their way to reality TV history Sept. 9 when "America's Next Top Model" returns. The show is stale but reliable. You know the formula. You know what to expect, but it's still entertaining at times ... like that relative who doesn't know when to turn down that last drink. It's so expected, you're not at all phased, but you still watch and even get a sick sense of comfort in the familiar.

Tyra tried to mix things up this season by featuring hopefuls who are shorter than the average model. I'll give her props for that. I've often wondered why models are required to be so tall. Most folks aren't model height, and it seems designers should produce for the masses. No?

I doubt whether this "twist" will add anything new to the show, but I'll tune in to find out. I wonder if other "demographic" seasons are in the works. Maybe there could be a full figured season, or big boob season ... the possibilities or endless.

What type of seasons would you like to see? More short girls, too tall girls, big butt girls, or guys?

'Curb' Returns!: Be Very Afraid

There aren't too many shows left on TV that are unpredictable and original, especially when it comes to sitcoms, but as usual, HBO delivers on originality (even when the concepts are ill advised, ex: "K Street" ... snooze).

Luckily, "Curb Your Enthusiasm," returning is September is both original and a good idea. Larry David is cluelessly self sabotaging like Dick on "Newhart," but he's got the stinging wit of Dorthy from the "Golden Girls."

Obviously, Larry David, the show's star, is a funny guy. He's co-creator of "Seinfeld." Although, you can see similarities, it's clear that David's sense of humor is darker, drier and more biting than his broadcast network counterpart, Jerry.

He's crazy evil, and I love it. LOL. For those of us who appreciate dry, evil humor, the show's a Heaven sent. It's nice to know there's someone out there who thinks worse thoughts than I do. LOL.

I can't wait to see what the unapologetically sarcastic David gets himself into this season. He can't help but be bluntly honest, but even when he's biting his tongue and trying to abide by the rules of society, he still ends up making a butt out himself.

See it for yourself in September.

http://www.hbo.com/larrydavid/

T.O. Brings His Game to VH1

The "Terrell Owens" show premieres on VH1 tonight. From the extended trailer, it's a little hard to determine exactly what the show's about. T.O., the man the NFL couldn't tame, moves to L.A., and I guess he's trying to get his life together. He's romantically pursuing an ex, and he's got two black women offering him advice. I'm gonna tune in to watch, but skeptically.

If nothing else, the show should be good for a few shots of a shirtless man who puts other VH1 reality stars, Chance, Real, Flavor Flav and even R.J., to shame! A friend of mine plans to watch strictly for the eye candy. LOL.





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Will you watch?

10 Reasons Sandhurst Should Win

The finale of season two of "Make Me a Supermodel" airs this week.

The second season was leaps and bounds better than season one. There was a more interesting and diverse group of wannabes, who were all pretty likable. The challenges were more ... challenging. I, for one, tended to agree with the judges more times than not, which is always good. You hate to see your favorites booted off early, especially for a bogus reason like, "you're too sexy." (That's Tyra's favorite ignorant reason to kick aspiring models off her show, but I digress.)

Another reason season two prevails is because of Sandhurst. How could viewers not love this guy? In addition to just being fine, he's funny and smart and will hopefully take the title this season.

Below are my 10 reasons Sandhurst should win:

1) His chiseled, sculptured body.

2) His chiseled, sculptured body. (worth repeating)

3) His sense of humor.

4) His compassion.

5) His humility.

6) His accent.

7) His debunking the stereotype that all male ballet dancers are gay.

8) His easygoing personality.

9) His ability to take instruction and improve.

10) His raw talent as a model, particularly on the catwalk.

Do the other two have all these qualities? I'll admit Jonathan seems pretty cool, but does he have that magnetic personality that Sandhurst has? I'll let you think about it. No. Branden might be cool, but that "e" in his name is enough for me to hold a grudge.

So, that leave Sandhurst. Will he be made into a supermodel? I hope so. What do you think?

The Hills: An End of an Era

"The Hills" as we know it is over. I'm going to miss Lauren. Out of the "Laguna" crew, she was definitely the most lovable -- obviously. Now, she's gone, and we're left with Audrina, Stephanie, Brody, the Pratts and Kristin.

I can understand why MTV decided to bring Kristin back. It continues the whole "Laguna Beach" tie in, and she just may be controversial and nostalgic enough to hold the attention of "The Hills" and "Laguna" fans.

I, for one, am skeptical. Lauren was mature, and you sort of rooted for her 'cause she often made sense, was rational and tried to avoid drama; although, it followed her. In contrast, Kristin will more than likely bring the drama and will irritate viewers. Maybe I'm just speaking for myself.

Regardless, I will give he show a chance this fall. I have a feeling Kristin will irk my nerves, but maybe she's changed since her "Laguna" days; although, the previews don't support that.

What do you think about Lauren's departure, Kirstin's return and the Pratts?

Ladies Love Does 'Hollywood'

E! True Hollywood Story is profiling L.L. Cool J tonight. I'm surprised they fit the highlights of his quarter-century career in an hour-long show. I'll be tuning in mostly for nostalgia's sake.

L.L.'s second album, "Bigger and Deffer" was the first I ever bought. Actually, it was so long ago, I think my parents bought it for me. Yes, it was a record ... not a tape ... not a CD (and not an eight track). LOL.

My favs: "Kanday," "I'm Bad," and, of course, "I Need Love." Ahhhh.

Are you going to tune in? Get a little preview here.

The President Makes It a Late Night

President Barack Obama sat down with Jay Leno Thursday night. It definitely wasn't the normal NBC "Late Night" interview, but if there were people out there unaware of Obama's feelings toward the bail out and AIG, now they know.

I think Obama may be the first U.S. President to do a late-night TV interview while in office (News programs excluded). What do you think? Is that an appropriate forum for the prez, or should he try to keep things more formal and old school? Will his critics suggest he's being too casual? What do you think?

Obama did get in a few quick stories about Michelle, Sasha and Malia. Did I mention that I love the Obamas? I could listen to the first couple discuss family life all day long.

If you missed it, see it here. =>

Jill Scott's New HBO Series

I've been waiting for HBO to post the trailer of this show. I heard a while ago that Jill Scott would be starring in a new series, but there wasn't much info out there about it.

Anyway, here's the trailer for "The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency." I'll definitely be tuning in. I like Jill, and HBO has a rep for great series. Plus, like "the Wire," this will be one of the few shows on TV with a predominantly Black cast. Anika Noni Rose plays Jill's sidekick. (She's also the voice of Disney's first Black Princess.) HBO also gets props for airing a drama that's located in Botswana. It will be nice to see some Blacks in another setting other than "urban."

Click here to view the trailer.

Will you watch?

Drag Race

Just when you thought it was OK to turn the TV back on, RuPaul is getting his/her own reality show. "Drag Race," airing on Logo (Surprise. Surprise.) is a drag queen competition. The winning queen will be deemed the greatest man-as-woman in the U.S. I'm not sure what the winning prize is, and I'm not sure I want to know.

The madness begins February. Will you watch?

Banks and Kutcher Bring 'True Beauty'

Two celebrity TV gods have joined forces to bring "True Beauty" to ABC. The contestants on the show think they're competing to be deemed the most gorgeous. However, the celebrity judges are really looking to see if their beauty is real or just skin deep.

Trya Banks and Ashton Kutcher's new show premieres tonight at 10 p.m. (ET).

The first few minutes of the show are available on You Tube, and it's already clear which beautiful people are overly shallow and superficial. Hopefully, some nice people will rise to the top.

However, it's reality TV. That means that the more horribly wicked and mean the beauties are, the more likely they'll stay on the show ... for rating's sake. So, it will be interesting to see whether the truly wicked and beautiful get kicked off, or will beauty be determined by ratings.

Will you watch? The show airs against "Mama's Boys" and "The City." Monday's the new Thursday night! LOL.

The Hills: Will Heidi and Lauren Be Friends?

The season finale of "The Hills" felt a lot like a series farewell. It had the type of resolution of story lines that was witnessed when the Evans family of "Good Times" finally left the ghetto. However, during the after show, viewers were assured that Lauren and "The Hills" will return.

That's good 'cause I really want to see where Audrina and Justin Bobby are going. He spit out a ring for her and shared some really sweet emotions. It would have been more touching if he were actually able to part his lips. The mumbling sort of ruined it for me, but Audrina lapped it right up. Good for them. What will happen next season? Maybe those two will be the new stars of MTV's "Newlyweds." Where does that leave Speidi?

I'm not sure, but their about-face at the Justice of the Peace means there's more time for Heidi to change her mind. However, it was actually a sweet moment. Spencer realized Heidi was unhappy with her mom's absence from the "ceremony." (Thanks, Stephanie) I hope that was evidence that Spencer will put Heidi first before his own selfish desires. Will she get the big, traditional wedding she's always wanted? I'd say she's one step closer.

So, what's up with Lauren? The season ended with her and Heidi having a civil conversation. There was even a hug, and Lauren said she'd be there for Heidi if Heidi really needed her. Ummm. Wait 'til Spencer gets a load of that! I guess we'll have to wait 'til next season

What did you think of the season? Do you plan to hang in there for another season? If so, which story lines will be bringing you back?

Blush

Lifetime's first reality competition series, "Blush," pitted make-up artists against one another. My favorite contestant, Nolan, won the big prize. I also liked Todd. I'd party with those two any day. Maxi rounded out the final three. He's what you'd call "elaborate" or "extra." His main criticism the entire series was his over-the-top attitude. "Blush" had some of the biggest personalities I've seen on a reality show; however, there was no violence. So, I give them props for keeping it funky minus the fisticuffs. LOL.

Honestly, I'm not a big makeup person. A little lip gloss and eyeliner is my everyday, but I definitely have more respect for face paint now. I wish I knew how to cover blemishes with foundation, and do that whole smokey eye thing. I'm starting to understand why DeShawn of "Housewives of ATL" has her own in-house, make-up artist (but I don't excuse her).

There were women on the show, but the most talented in the group were men. That made me think of "Project Runway." The majority of winners on that show have been men. Why are men so into fashion? Is it because they spend a lot of time staring at women? Is it because they'd secretly like to put the clothes on themselves? Are they fulfilling fantasies? Mmmm?

Either way, the fellas have got lots of talent whether it's doing make up or designing clothes. Let's hear it for the boys.

Did you watch "Blush"? Who was your favorite? Do you have a new appreciation for make up? Will there be a season two? Can someone show me how to do the smokey eye?

Stylista's Star

The CW's "Stylista" took a handful of 20-somethings and gave them the opportunity to win a Junior Editor position at Elle Magazine. Surprisingly, few of the candidates had actual journalism experience. You don't see people on "Project Runway" who've never sewed before, but I digress.

Johanna took home the prize and won the position. Although she didn't always shine in the weekly challenges, she did seem to be the most passionate about the job. She also worked hard when some others seemed to be a little more strategic, yet less dedicated about the hustle.

Early on, I liked Ashlie, but she turned me off when she spazzed out about Colonge being eliminated. I never liked Megan; although, her confessionals were among the most entertaining. Katie was dramatic. So, I missed her when she left. I don't think the others warrant mention.

Did you watch? What did you think? Does Tyra have another hit on her hands? Will there be a season two? Can this be considered a spin-off of "The Devil's Wears Prada"? Will I ever be able to view the pages of Elle the same way again?

Momma's Boys

NBC's newest reality show, Momma's Boys, is like "The Bachelor" on steroids. Instead of one bachelor, there are three men looking for the right woman. However, unlike "The Bachelor," the men on "MB," have their moms along for the ride to help make that final decision.

The relationship between these grown men and their moms is troublesome, to say the least. Many of them still live at home. One mother admits to calling her son 100 times a day, and he answers each time! Another apparently tells women that her son is gay to keep them away. It'd be an understatement to call the relationships "dysfunctional."

In the premiere, Khalood -- one of the mothers -- offended several women when she boldly announced her preference for a white, petite, Catholic daughter-in-law. She refuses to accept Black, Jewish or full figured women who may be interested in her son. Of course, this caused some tension, and one black girl argued with Khalood about her views. I'm not sure why she cares. Personally, I'd be glad her views were expressed early, and I'd stay clear of her and her son. Who needs 'em?

The first elimination happens in the following episode. It will be interesting to see if the minority women are cut from the show first. We know that's Khalood's preference. Will she learn some tolerance from this experience? Will the fellas defy their mothers, or will the moms maintain total control? Are there any girls on the show who can please both the guy and his mom? Will anyone find happiness? Will there be more arguments? Will you watch?

The Hills: The Buzzed Bride

There have been rumors circulating that Heidi was somehow under the influence when she agreed to a private, impromptu wedding with beau Spencer. On the latest episode of "The Hills," the rumors are confirmed.

If the episode stands up to editing, it looks like Spencer manipulated Heidi by flying her to a romantic island and throwing Patrone shots down her throat. Then, he suggested marriage. She agreed. That's not to suggest that she didn't want to marry him, but most girls don't dream of stumbling down the aisle with a hangover on their wedding day.

On next week's season finale, Heidi's mom reacts. That should be interesting.

Again, I ask. How long will it be before the Speidi spin off? I'm taking bets.

Heroes: Lots of Dead Heroes

The latest episode was deemed the season finale, but the show returns in February. Whether I'll be returning to NBC to watch it, is another issue. Whether there are any heroes left to watch next season, is what we'll explore now.

It seems a lot of heroes took their last bow. Claire lost her biological mother, the fire thrower. The fear feeder, also known as Marlo from "The Wire," was iced to death. Sylar was killed, and a few other rogue "heroes" succumbed to death in various ways. Elle and Arthur Petrelli were murdered last week. So, only the original Petrellis, Hiro, Ando, Mohinder, Tracy, Parkman and Daphne seem to be left? Am I missing anybody. The list is getting shorter.

Yes, Hiro did survive. The last episode had him hanging on a ledge. He pulled himself to safety, but was almost sliced to death by his father. Is it me or is Hiro starting to remind you of Charlie Brown. Whenever he tries to do something, I end up thinking, "Good Grief." Please, help this wayward hero get himself together! I can't take it anymore. I'm expecting a girl dressed in blue to pull a football from him any second now.

The next season's preview promises more darkness. The heroes will be hunted and captures. Oh, joy!

Will you watch, or have you had it with these heroes?

Secret Millionaire

I stumbled upon a new Fox series last week. It had the same philanthropic feel of "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition." I found myself wondering if the network could write the whole series off as charitable giving.

I digress. The show, "Secret Millionaire," transplanted a multi-millionaire into an impoverished, urban neighborhood. He was given $14 a day to live on, and his goal was to walk in the shoes of the less fortunate and then give away $100K.

So, after the millionaire volunteered at soup kitchens and sat down with those less fortunate a la "Good Times," he learned the joys of giving back and provided some much-needed assistance to his new friends.

I hope the series ends with a reunion show or "Where Are They Now?" segment. I'd like to know if those given the money were actually able to make better lives for themselves. In today's economy, $100K doesn't go as far as it used to.

I'll probably tune in again next week. It's a feel good show that makes you grateful for what you have and want to give to somebody else.

It airs Thursdays of Fox. Check it out.

The Hills: Spiraling Toward the Spin Off

"The Hills" began with Lauren meeting Whitney. Now, it's time to bid farewell to Whit. She's packing up and moving away from California and away from Lauren. However, it doesn't look like she'll be alone. She's got new friendships to look forward to. One particular dark and handsome fellow steals some smooches with Whit before she quickly heads back to California. Will we be seeing more of him on "The City"? I think so. He has a bit of a Justin Bobby thing going on, but for Whitney's sake, I hope similarities end with the mussed up hair.

In the same old news, Spencer continues to criticize Stephanie's choice in a man. Isn't that ironic? I'm surprised that Stephanie listens to her bone head brother at all. She can't possibly respect his opinion that much. Can she?

What do you think? Is Spencer looking out for his sister's best interest, or just being a jerk? Will Whitney's romance with the New Yorker continue? What will happen to Lauren and "The Hills"?