2012 senior class photos
2012 West Carrollton graduation
Home of the Week
Home > Blogs > Reality Bytes > Archives > 2010 > January
January 2010
Shows about hair and drag return to reality TV
RuPaul’s Drag Race
Airs on Logo TV - Mondays at 9 PM
This campy-glam reality TV competition features 12 drag queens decked out in all their finnery vying for the title of “America’s Next Drag Superstar.”
One the best parts of the show is the “lip-synch for your life.” This appears near the end of the show where the final contestants on the chopping block claw, strut and lip-synch to stay in the competition for another week.
Returning for another season as judges are Merle Ginsberg, fashion journalist and Project Runway crazy, Santino Rice.
Guest stars and judges slated to appear on the show include:Kathy Griffin, Cloris Leachman, Jackie Collins, Henry Rollins and a slate of celebrities sure to make to the queens swoon. Not too bad for a show Bravo took a pass on.
Shear Genius
Airs on Bravo TV - Wednesdays at 10 PM
“Shear Genius” is back on the air after a makeover. Jaclyn Smith has been cut as the show’s host and if Entertainment Weekly is correct the new host - Carnila Alves, fiancee of Matthew McConaughey - may be even worse. Hair reality TV star Jonathan Antin, star of Bravo’s reality TV series “Blow Out,” will serve as judge along with Kim Vo. Orlanda Pita will serve as a mentor to the stylist wannabes.
The competition each week includes the shortcut challenge - where each of the designers’ technical skills are evaluated and of course a dreaded illumination challenge.
The show helped to create another reality TV series on Bravo. Season one winner Tabatha Coffey has starred in two seasons of her own realityTV series on Bravo called “Tabatha’s Salon Takeover.”
TweetFrom Barney to dominatrix … some “Idol” highlights
Texas, the place where dreams came true eight years ago for the original American Idol Kelly Clarkson.
Wonder if any of tonight’s Texas contestants will live out the same dream? The search continued for the next American Idol, Jan. 27, with the help of guest judge Neil Patrick Harris (“How I Met Your Mother”), who said he joined the judges table in hopes of singlehandedly crushing peoples’ dreams. He must be after Simon’s job.
Surprisingly it took 15 minutes for the first Doogie Howser joke. On second thought, maybe that shouldn’t be a surprise. Things do tend to drag on for awhile on “Idol.”
Joe Jonas, one of the (insert squeal here) Jonas Brothers, took over at the judges table for day two of the Texas auditions. Did he even speak? If so, I didn’t notice.
But here are some things I did notice:
Superstar potential: Barney kids grow up to become, um, dominatrices, apparently. Erica Rhodes, who appeared on “Barney and Friends” as a child, is all grown up and ready for a more, well, mature sound to match her leather and whips. She sang “Free Your Mind” by En Vogue and impressed the judges with her vocals, her style and her sass. But I can’t help but wonder, what would that lovable purple dinosaur Barney think of this new Erica?
Maegan “Break the Rules T-shirt girl” Wright, who sang “To Make You Feel My Love,” has an absolutely beautiful voice.
And last but not least, leukemia survivor Christian Spear, 16, who sang “All I Can Do is Cry” by Etta James. I predict she’ll survive Hollywood week, too.
On a side note, has “American Idol” ever shown a contestant with an inspirational story who didn’t make it through? It’s just so obvious!
Not too shabby: Lloyd Thomas took a fashion lesson from Boyz II Men, with a dress shirt and tie paired with a baseball cap and some voice lessons from Stevie Wonder.
Jazzy Kimberly Carver sang an original song that split the vote 3-1 (Simon the odd man out).
Todrick Hall (who just happened to perform on stage with “Idol” winner Fantasia Barrino) performed an original song about his “Idol” dreams. Not sure about his songwriting skills, but he’s had one of the more memorable auditions of the season.
Another story of inspiration: Dave Pittman, who has Tourette’s Syndrome, got a big thumbs up from the judges for his soulful Sam Cooke song.
Shame of a nation: Eight seasons after trying out with a very high-pitched “Lady Marmalade,” Julie Kevelighan returned this season for another chance, this time with “Black Velvet.” She was much better than she was in Season One auditions, I’ll give her that much. But despite what her sign said, this was not her lucky year.
The very perky and annoying Vanessa Johnston (pink flower and spandex girl) couldn’t quite pull off Etta James. Simon called her his worst nightmare!
Cry me a river: Lots of tears tonight! The saddest of all: Dexter “Winkie” Ward, who had all the confidence when he strutted in the room, but couldn’t back it up with his audition to “If I Ever Fall in Love” by Shai.
»»Photos: American Idol season 9
TweetFinally, an “Idol” guest judge we can all appreciate
Is it Hollywood week yet?
This audition episode after audition episode business is getting a little boring. Sure, there are a few standouts (good and bad) in each city, but for the most part, it’s all a blur, and I’m guessing few auditions will be really memorable by the time we get to Hollywood Week.
At least we had Katy Perry. The singer-songwriter (“I Kissed A Girl,” “Waking Up in Vegas”) was one of two guest judges on tonight’s (Jan. 26) episode of “Idol.” Avril Lavigne (“Complicated”) didn’t have much to say behind that horned hoodie.
Perry should be a guest judge every week. Finally, someone who wasn’t afraid to really speak her mind.
Here’s the rundown:
Superstar potential: Every show needs a Cinderella story. This week there were two. Andrew Garcia, a father seeking a better life for his son, gave Katy Perry chills with his vocals. Foster child Chris Colightly, who Simon said belongs in a boy band (he did sort of have a Corbin Bleu/Justin Guarini look about him), wowed some of the judges at least with his version of “Stand By Me.”
Not too shabby: Rocker chick Mary Powers, who sang Pat Benatar’s “Love is a Battlefield.” Simon called her look cliché, but gave her the thumbs up anyway. Pastor and dad Jim Ranger, who impressed the judges with his original song “Drive.” The very likable minister Tasha Layton, who sang Joss Stone’s “Baby, Baby, Baby.” How can you not like a minister after all?
Shame of a nation: The very animated Austin Fullmer, who sang Cheap Trick’s “Surrender.” His dance moves did not impress. Neil Goldstein sure can rock a vest, but couldn’t rock Meatloaf-style. Sandwich-maker and martial artist Dameon LaFavor … maybe he should try standup instead of The Righteous Brothers. A.J. Mendoza “the ventriloquist,” who managed to sing “Cult of Personality” while barely opening his mouth. Jason Greene, whose “I Touch Myself” performance made Katy Perry of all people feel dirty.
Just plain creepy: Susan Boyle and Adam Lambert’s love child. The preview for tomorrow’s episode in which Barney (yes, Barney the large annoying purple dinosaur) auditions. What??????
»»Photos: American Idol season 9
TweetEx-convicts, ripped pants and more surprises on “Idol”
Orlando — the place where dreams come true … at least for a few.
About 10,000 “American Idol” hopefuls headed to Mickey territory to show off their skills, but only 31 advanced to Hollywood week.
Judges Randy Jackson, Simon Cowell and Kara DioGuardi were joined the first day by guest judge Broadway superstar Kristin Chenoweth (loved her on “Glee” by the way). Here’s a look at some of the highlights from tonight’s (Jan. 20, 2010) episode:
Superstar potential: Seth Rollins, 28, whose modern interpretation of “Someone to Watch Over Me” by Frank Sinatra moved me to tears for more than one reason. This father of an autistic child is hoping his vocal talents will not only help fulfill his dreams of having a music career, but also help his family better afford expensive treatment for his son.
The very likable Jermaine Purlfoy, who auditioned while in college for Season 7, gave it another shot with a little Tony Bennett. Randy said it was the best audition of the season so far. Simon predicted, “the chicks will like you.”
These ladies didn’t get much air time, but Janell Wheeler, Brittany Starr James and Kasi Bedford all had fantastic voices and star quality.
And tonight’s major dose of triumph-over-adversity came from 25-year-old Matt Lawrence, whose performance of “Trouble” was pretty appropriate considering he spent four years in jail after he robbed a bank with a BB-gun while a teenager. Matt’s hoping for a fresh start. Kara predicted he’d make the Top 12.
Not too shabby: Despite getting a little nervous and forgetting the words to “Turn Me On” by Norah Jones, the judges saw the potential in Shelby Dressel, 18, and gave her a golden ticket. If you need a refresher, Shelby was the recent high school grad who can’t use the right side of her mouth due to an undeveloped nerve.
Jersey sisters Bernadette Desimone and Amanda Desimone certainly make up for in style and spunk what they may lack in raw vocal talent.
I’m not sure what to think about Jay Stone’s beat-box version of the Beatles’ classic “Come Together.” I was rolling my eyes until he actually started singing. He had a decent voice behind all that noise. But somehow I don’t think he’ll make it as far as Season 6 runner-up Blake Lewis.
Shame of a nation: Theo, the sequined cape-wearing “superhero” complete with sequined-feather mask who sang Pat Benatar’s “Heartbreaker” in superhero fashion. I wonder what his purposefully blurred T-shirt said. Backward baseball-cap wearing Jarrod Norell, whose “Amazing Grace” was neither amazing nor graceful. He couldn’t take no for an answer and had to be escorted out by security. Yep, definitely a “no.”
In a league of his own: The best part of the show by far came when Cornelius Edwards ripped his pants by doing a split during his energetic performance of “Proud Mary.” I don’t know if they just liked his voice or if he got the pity golden ticket.
Up next: Dallas auditions to air Tuesday, Jan. 26, 8 p.m. (EST) Fox.
»»Photos: American Idol season 9
Speaking of vocal skills, where do you like to show off yours? Vote in this week’s Best of Dayton Poll for Best Place to Karaoke
TweetLocal woman gets some exposure on “American Idol”
It’s week two of “American Idol.” I was prepared for a letdown, after all the chances of finding an audition as memorable as Atlanta contestant Gen. Larry Platt’s “Pants on the Ground” were slim to none.
But at least a local “Idol” hopeful got some, well, national exposure.
West Chester (love how “Idol” spelled it Westchester!) resident Amy Lang didn’t make it to Hollywood, but hey, at least she showed off her, ummm, special talent. The waitress not only shared her desire for Ryan Seacrest with America, but enhanced her audition to Aretha Franklin’s “Dr. Feelgood” with a fake fainting and a special little dance the judges called “boob bouncing.” We’ll leave the rest to your imaginations.
Now onto the other highlights …
Guest judge, country superstar Shania Twain joined Randy, Kara and Simon in Chicago to spot the potential in some of the 12,000 contestants (only 13 made the final cut). Here are some of the Windy City contestants who blew the judges away … or not.
Superstar potential: Chicago’s Angela Martin, back for a third time after making it to Hollywood Week during season 7 and to the top 50 in Season 8 (but who had to drop out due to a traffic warrant.) She made the judges proud with a little Mary J. Blige. Angela definitely has some star quality.
Here’s this week’s triumph over adversity story, which automatically boosts your chances. The judges saw the potential in 21-year-old Paige Dechausee of Illinois, whose asthma nearly took her life at age 15. Paige impressed most of the judges with her bluesy vocals.
Not too shabby: Katelyn Epperly of Des Moines, Iowa, (the curly haired blond with large tattoo whose family is going through divorce) who sang some song I’ve never heard of called “Syrup and Honey.” Charity Vance, 16, from Arkansas (the energetic high school student who comes from a family of hairstylists) who sang “Summertime.” John Park of Illinois, whose “bottom end” got more compliments than his vocals.
Shame of a nation: Curley Newbern, whose falsetto frightened and entertained the judges. And I’m not quite sure how to describe this one, but Brian Krouse, who says he used to sing for the troops, sang some tiptoeing song by novelty act Tiny Tim and swore on his mother’s life his audition wasn’t a joke. It was really, really disturbing.
Honorable mention: Our very own Amy Lang. She’s definitely a performer.
Up next: Orlando auditions episode, Wednesday, Jan. 20, 8 p.m. Fox (EST)
»»Photos: American Idol season 9
Tweet“Pants on the Ground” making star out of 63-year-old man
No big surprise that Atlanta man Larry Platt, now 63, has become an overnight Internet sensation with that catchy original song “Pants on the Ground” that he performed before “American Idol” judges.
Comments on his performance took over Twitter and Facebook mid-performance. A video was quickly downloaded on YouTube, and registered well over a million views as of early Friday afternoon. Fan pages for “Pants on the Ground” have thousands and thousands and thousands of followers.
The song has already been remixed, and you can download ringtones.
Don’t miss Platt when he sings “Pants on the Ground” on “The View” Monday morning (Jan. 18, 11 a.m. ET, ABC).
Wanna start singing along? Here are the “official” lyrics:
Pants on the ground Pants on the ground Lookin’ like a fool with your pants on the ground
With the gold in your mouth Hat turned sideways Pants hit the ground Call yourself a cool cat Lookin’ like a fool Walkin’ downtown with your pants on the ground
Get it up, hey! Get your pants off the ground Lookin’ like a fool Walkin’ talkin’ with your pants on the ground.
Get it up, hey! Get your pants off the ground Lookin’ like a fool with your pants on the ground
»»Photos: American Idol season 9
TweetWhy ‘American Idol’ producers should revisit that age limit
The producers of “American Idol” should really re-evaluate that whole age limit thing.
Because tonight, Jan. 13, 2010, a 62-year-old man won the hearts of “Idol” fans across America.
“American Idol” judges Randy Jackson, Kara Dioguardi and Simon Cowell and guest judge Mary J. Blige hit Atlanta in search of some true Southern talent.
The judges spotted some real contenders in Atlanta — and even found their new William Hung.
Here’s a look at the good, the bad and the funny.
Superstar potential: Church singer Jermaine Sellers, who added an R&B twist to Joan Osbourne’s “What if God was One of Us?” and prompted the first “this kid is HOT” of the season from Randy. The fact that Jermaine cares for his mother, who has Spina bifida, adds that whole triumph-over-adversity factor.
The “authentic” country girl from the country Vanessa Wolfe offers the rags-to-riches fairy tale element. From rural Tennessee, this small-town girl talked about her really cheap clothes and even told host Ryan Seacrest she’d never been on an “aeroplane” before. Imagine the Hollywood makeover possibilities here.
Super talented and super-pretty country singer Mallorie Haley, who very confidently sang Janis Joplin’s “Piece of My Heart”, could very well be this season’s “It” girl.
Police officer Bryan Walker, the Tennessee cop looking to chase a dream instead of a suspect, prompted Randy’s second “HOT” of the evening.
Not too shabby: The very likable beauty pageant contestant and Miss Congeniality winner Keia Johnson, who sang Celine Dion’s “My Heart Will Go On.” Not the best vocals, but she’s very marketable, and we all know that matters in this competition.
“Guitar girl” Holly Harden, whose ridiculous guitar costume was a little off-putting, actually surprised the judges with her Loretta Lynn lyrics.
“The next big thing” Skibowski, who certainly seems to think pretty highly of himself based on the fact he referenced himself in the third person practically every other word and wore clothing basically marketing himself as an “Idol” star, actually had some talent to back it up.
Shame of a nation: Dewone Robinson, who performed a frightening original duet (complete with acting out the male and female parts) called “Lady we’re not together anymore.
” Alabama’s Jesse Hamilton’s three near-death experiences couldn’t earn him enough pity points to overshadow his embarrassing rendition of Garth Brooks’ “If Tomorrow Never Comes.
” The way-too-energetic Lamar, whose “Kiss from a Rose” wasn’t quite as good as he swore it was. At least he delivered the best parting line of the night: “Man, I wish Paula were here.”
In a league of his own: 62-year-old Gen. Larry Platt sang a really, um, catchy, song called “Pants on the ground.” Who knew droopy pants could make for such strong song material! At least he got the judges laughing with his original lyrics and smooth dance moves (he even did a split). “I have a horrible feeling that song could be a hit,” Simon said.
Simon could be onto something. There’s just something special about that song. In fact, it’s now stuck in my head and is probably trending on Twitter as we speak — and if it’s not, it should be.
“Pants on the ground, pants on the ground… Looking like a fool with your pants on the ground.”
Somehow I don’t think we’ve seen the last of Larry.
What did you think of Atlanta’s offerings?
»»Photos: American Idol season 9
TweetSome people to watch for on “American Idol” Season 9
A new season. A new batch of talented singers looking for their big break. A new batch of not-so-talented singers looking for their few minutes of fame.
Tonight (Jan. 12, 2010) Season 9 of “American Idol” debuted with — surprise, surprise, — some really good singing, some really bad singing, some laughter and some tears. There were plenty of stories of adversity and inspiration — and even a fight or two and a spanking threat.
Here are a few highlights from the season debut, set in Boston with judges Randy Jackson, Kara Dioguardi and Simon Cowell (sorry folks, no Ellen DeGeneres yet), with guest judge Victoria “Posh Spice” Beckham.
Like every other audition episode of “Idol,” nine times out of 10 you can immediately tell who’s going to shine and who’s going to suck solely based on the pre-audition footage. Here’s a look of some Boston contestants who got their golden ticket to Hollywood, and some others who, well, didn’t.
Superstar potential: The “complete package” Ashley Rodriguez, who sang a sultry version of “If I Ain’t Got You” by Alicia Keyes. The drummer with two broken wrists who sang an unexpectedly good rendition of “Let’s Get It On” (he looks more like the rocker type). A speedboat actor (who knew there was such a thing) who did a beautiful rendition of The Beatles’ “Yesterday.” The very soulful 16-year-old Portugese girl Katie Stevens, who belted out Etta James’ “At Last” to make her grandma battling Alzheimer’s proud. Cancer survivor Justin Williams of Utah, who had a lovely voice and wasn’t too bad on the eyes, either. And last but not least, the very emotional Leah Lorenti, whose jazzy “Blue Skies” ended the show on a really high note.
Not too shabby: Nigerian Bosa Mora from Columbus, 22, who Simon called “good but boring.” The really, really polite country crooner Joshua Baylok. The “not annoying” 16-year-old (who comes complete with the heartwarming story of being part of a large family with many special-needs children). The 28-year-old Italian nice guy with a huge voice (who could help restore people’s opinions of the Italian community in the wake of “Jersey Shore” — I love the “Shore,” but it’s true.)
Shame of a nation: The crazy dancing “American Idol” video game master who undoubtedly proved the video game doesn’t work. The geek whose rendition of Britney Spears’ “Womanizer” was just plain frightening. The incredibly nasal spiritual guy who compared himself to Chris Brown and The Eagles (hmmmm, not seeing it). The freaky anime fan who butchered classic Janis Joplin. Oh yes, and the way-too-excited-yet-nervous man who looks like Latoya Jackson but sings like a 3-year-old girl. Hey, those were Simon’s words. That’s exactly why, I’m gonna miss Simon.
In the end, 31 made it through to Hollywood.
Did we catch a glimpse of the Season 9 winner? Spot anyone you hope survives Hollywood week?
Tweet5 ideas for another new “American Idol” judge
So Simon Cowell has announced this ninth season of “American Idol,” premiering tonight (Jan. 12, 2010) at 8 p.m. EST on Fox, will be his last.
Cowell’s reason for leaving: To focus on “The X Factor,” another successful British singing competition with an American version set to debut—also on Fox—in 2011.
Or could it be that without Paula Abdul beside him at the judge’s table, there’s simply no reason to go on?
No matter the reason, it’s safe to say “Idol” just won’t be the same without Simon, whose brutal honesty was either loved or hated. It will be interesting to see what the 10th season of “Idol” will be like without Simon — that is if the show can go on without its biggest star.
Of course, no replacement judge has been named yet (after all, can we ever really replace Simon?). But let the speculation begin…
Because every competition-based show these days seems to have a token opinionated British guy (and “Idol” will now have a void in that area), we set that as our criteria.
All in good fun, here are some possible candidates:
Gordon Ramsay: Fox’s “Hell’s Kitchen” host and world-class chef from London has a fiery temper that could singlehandedly crush the dreams of every aspiring entertainer from coast to coast. If he can call aspiring chefs, “*!@&ing donkeys” and can even make grown-men cry, then we’re sure he can come up with some suitable insults for “American Idol” hopefuls. Heck, Ramsay may even make Simon look like a nice guy.
Ricky Gervais: The award-winning writer and comedian who created the original, British version of “The Office” will be hosting The 67th Annual Golden Globe Awards on Sunday, Jan. 17, 2010 (NBC, 8 p.m.). We expect him to have a little fun at the expense of Hollywood’s best and brightest stars, so why not extend that philosophy to some 20-something Hollywood wannabes?
Sir Elton John: The English singer-songwriter, composer and pianist is one of the most successful performers of all time, so he’s certainly a qualified judge of music talent. He has even appeared as a guest judge on the program. One problem: he has been a vocal critic of “American Idol,” particularly related to the voting process, but maybe he’s had a change of heart. You never know …
Ozzy Osbourne: The “Prince of Darkness” has had a storied music career that has spanned five decades as both the frontman of metal band Black Sabbath and as a solo act. He also rose in popularity among the masses after his hit MTV reality show “The Osbournes.” The only problem: you won’t be able to understand a word he says. But maybe a little mystery could be a good thing.
Sharon Osbourne: OK, she’s doesn’t fit the criteria of token opinionated British guy, but she is British and she is extremely opinionated, so two out of three ain’t bad. The wife and manager of Ozzy Osbourne has gained fame in her own right from “The Osbournes, ” (a reality television show that followed her family’s daily life) and as a judge on the talent shows “The X Factor” (British version) and “America’s Got Talent.” Why not “Idol”?
Who do you think would be a good replacement for Simon Cowell? Will you watch “American Idol” without Simon?
Tweet“The Bachelor: 14” and reality TV show about where food comes set to air
“The Bachelor 14” or “The Bachelor: On the Wings of Love”
Airing on ABC, Starting January 4, Mondays at 8
By now we all know the drill - sinlge guy, Jake Pavelka, looking for love is armed with roses and is paired up with the ladies in search of a lad… As the show readies to air, CNN and others are reporting that according to the show’s host, a producer and a bachelorette “had a relationship.” CNN is also reporting that the “situation” will air during the season. Which leads this writer to wonder if this is all code for… we (ABC) wanted a little extra publicity for the show so we’re leaving “it” in the show.
http://abc.go.com/shows/the-bachelor
Also airing tonight -
Blood, Sweat & Takeaways
Airing on Planet Green, Starting January 4, Mondays at 10 Want to know where your food comes from? Well, six British fast-food consumers spent a month doing just that as film crews were there to capture every dramatic moment. “Only by growing, rearing, harvesting, processing, preparing and cooking the foods will they truly discover what goes into getting it onto their plate and into their gob.” - Discovery.com
http://planetgreen.discovery.com/tv/blood-sweat-takeaways/
TweetA new year - a new slate of reality TV shows set to air in 2010
As a new year rolls in, it brings with it more than 15 new and returning reality TV shows. Its too cold outside to do much else, so here’s a list of the shows returning tonight (JAN 03).
Frank the Entertainer In a Basement Affair
Airing on VH1, The show starts Jan. 3, Sundays at 8 Frank “The Entertainer” Maresca is 31 and lives in his parent’s basement. His parents are hoping the show will enable Frank to find the woman of his dreams as 15 ladies vie for Frank’s affections.
http://www.vh1.com/shows/franktheentertainerinabasementaffair/series.jhtml
Platinum Weddings
Airing on WEtv, The show starts Jan. 3, Sundays at 9
Back for another season is the over the top reality TV series about brides planning their perfect day and I mean perfect. The couples to be appear to have unlimited budgets, unlimited bling and unlimted drama that fill the hour-long show.
http://www.wetv.com/platinum-weddings/ Giuliana & Bill Airing on Style, The show starts Jan. 3, Sundays at 9 Bill Rancic, winner of The Apprentice, is interviewed by a new reporter and the rest is wedding history. Style calls the show now in its second season, “real-life romantic comedy.”
http://www.mystyle.com/mystyle/shows/giulianaandbill/index.jsp
Worst Cooks In America
Airing on Food Network, The show starts Jan. 3, Sundays at 10
We all know one right… the cook that no matter what they try recipe they try it just turns into something resembing trash. The show follows 12 “of the most hopeless cooks in the country will compete in a high-stakes elimination series in Worst Cooks in America.”
http://www.foodnetwork.com/worst-cooks-in-america/index.html
Secrets of Aspen
Airing on VH1, The show starts Jan. 3, Sundays at 10
Real Houswives meets VH1 - execpt the women are single and living rolling Aspen style. Jeff Olde, Executive Vice President, Original Programming and Production, VH1 said, “Aspen is a town very much on the pop culture radar, but this show goes beneath the glamorous surface and into the real lives and relationships of some of the women who call Aspen ‘home.’ The town’s remote location, the seasonality of its residents and all the pleasures and pressures of wealth give this city its own unique set of rules.” Can we say drama!
http://www.vh1.com/shows/secretsofaspen/series.jhtml
What will you be watching?
Tweet
