Tuesday, April 01, 2008

Shut It Down!  Hell’s Kitchen is BACK!

Kim Reis

Gordon Ramsey is BACK with another season of Hell’s Kitchen!!!  He’s such a crazy person and I love it!  Who else can scream in someone’s face like that?  He’s such a rare person and he calls it like he sees it.  Although he’s usually inappropriate, he’s allowed to do it.

This season began with Ramsey disguised as one of the cooks on the show.  He boarded the bus with the contestants and they had no idea he was sizing them up before they even arrived at the HK restaurant.

Craig: COCKY, COCKY, COCKY and he doesn’t care who knows it.  Ramsey definitely brought him down a peg (or two).  He told him he’d shove his chef hat where the sun don’t shine.  HA HA HA HA!!  Craig is only 5’ 5” and he wears the hat to offset his short physique.  And, he disliked his signature dish.

Bobby: Says he’s the black Gordon Ramsey - Ramsey’s reaction to the contestants on the bus was priceless!  Because he witnessed Bobby’s cocky attitude, this will work against him because Ramsey is going to make him prove his cockiness.  His signature dish was deep fried and Chef Ramsey hated it, spit it out.

Jen: He spit out her first dish.  She was off to a bad start.

Corey: Called her plain and boring.

Jason: Told him that his first dish was worse than something that comes out of a tin can.

Shana: She burned her first dish.

Matt:  His signature dish was scallops, raw venison, caviar, white chocolate and Ramsey asked him if he was high before he cooked this dish.  He spit it out and gagged on it.  How embarassing!

Dominic: House dad, not a professional chef.  His signature dish was a chicken cacciatore and Ramsey told him it was boring.  At least he didn’t throw up or spit it out.

Rosann: She’s a receptionist in a law office but says she’s been cooking for 5 years.  She was the first semi-compliment of the night.  Finally!

Petrozza: He cooked a cornish hen inside a cooked pumpkin.  It was dripping with butter and it looked so disgusting.  He said it was dry and bland.  But, Petrozza said he was memorable.

Sharon: Ramsey said her dish was not up to Hell’s Kitchen standards.

Ben: Electrician got a “not bad”.

Christina: “Good concept; terrible execution.“

Louross: Hotel cook who received mediocre reviews from Chef Ramsey.

Vanessa: Halibut, pan seered with some oven cooking.  She got “the tastiest thing he ate all day.“

This season is setting up to be the best yet.  Lots of weak players who really think they are strong.  That sets this up to be funny because these cocky players will fall hard.

One of these people will be the executive chef of Ramsey’s “London LA” restaurant in Los Angeles, CA.  They all want it bad and Chef Ramsey is going to make them work to win.  There will be a men’s team and a women’s team to begin the season.  Captains to be picked by the teams.  Women decided quickly and efficiently.  Men had a tougher time deciding.  While the men argued, the women worked to get ready for their first dinner service.

Women’s Captain: Vanessa
Men’s Captain: Bobby

Men’s team - very weak, they couldn’t name the entrees for the night’s dinner service and people were already lined up outside. 
Women’s team - had no problem listing the five entrees.

First dinner service was a complete embarassment.  Jason was smoking a cigarette outside while he was supposed to be working on appetizers.  Not a great way to prove himself to Chef Ramsey.  Ramsey also spit out his appetizer plates.  Not going well.

Sharon was struggling on her appetizer station as well.  Jen tried to help her out, but Sharon’s ego got in the way.  Sometimes, you have to swallow your pride and accept assistance.  Ramsey spit out her risotto—twice.  And then he kicked her off the station, told her to go put on some makeup, and put Jen on the station.  Jen calls her “barbie”. 

The diners were hungry and the bread baskets were running low.  The more Ramsey yelled, the more nervous the contestants were getting.  Although I like watching him yell, if I were in a kitchen with him yelling at me, I’d probably end up in the fetal position, crying in the corner.

Vanessa was not a strong leader.  Poor Dominic was lost.  Bobby knew his kitchen was falling apart, so he tried to separate himself from the group so he wouldn’t get fired if his ship went down.  Jen was given a risotto compliment and she felt that it was a chance to get their mojo back.  The men finally started getting food out of the kitchen after three hours, but their guests had left and they heard those words: “SHUT IT DOWN!“  Louross tried to take over, but it was too late for their team to salvage their poor performance.

Although the entire dinner service was a calamity, Ramsey had to pick a winning team.  The women got appetizers out, but no entrees - so they won the service as the best of the worst.  Louross had to choose two men to be eliminated.  Jason will definitely be one of them and I think Bobby will be the other one up for elimination.

After the commercial break - I was so WRONG!!!  (by the way - I love the bumps in/out of commercials with the little pitch forks - so creative!)  Jason squeaked by, but should have been on the chopping block.  Bobby and Dominic were chosen to be in the bottom two by Louross.  I agreed with Bobby in the bottom two.  He first stepped up as a general and then, when push came to shove, he put his hands up and said it wasn’t his responsibility.  And yet, he was the darn captain!! 

In the end, Ramsey chose Dominic to go home.  Unfortunately, I think he did it because Bobby makes better television.  Dominic went home in the first night which means he barely got 2 minutes of fame.  Not even close to 15 minutes.  Jason dodged a HUGE bullet.

OK - it’s late.  Laptop battery is running low.  I’m heading to bed and I’m gonna “SHUT IT DOWN!“

Dolly Visits Idol

Kim Reis

Well, it’s April Fool’s Day and it wouldn’t be April 1st without a dumb joke from Ryan Seacrest.  When the show began, Ryan said that the show was being pre-empted because of some union dispute.  It was actually funny when every member of my family froze and stared at the TV set.  I immediately said, “It’s an April Fool’s joke.“  and, I was right.

Dolly Parton is this week’s theme.  It looks like she botoxed her lips.  Why?  She’s so beautiful.  I don’t like that swollen look.

Brooke started it off with “Jolene”.  She’s so darn sweet!  Randy said she did “Alright”.  What does that mean??  With Randy, it’s comical because he always says “Alright Dawg”, but his inflection tells whether he really thought it was “Alright” or “Just OK”.  Paula did her typical critique - which was NONE.  Brooke then complimented Paula’s hair - WHAT??!  Weird banter.

David Cook was next.  Very creative guy, but I haven’t liked him from the beginning.  He’s growing on me with his own personal arrangements.  He did “Little Sparrow” in his own creative way.  It didn’t even sound like a Dolly song.  Didn’t really like his haircut either.  So, he’s not going to get a hair compliment like the back/forth between Paula & Brooke.  Judges liked his performance and Randy used the word “HOT DAWG” - and he didn’t mean barbecue.  And Simon was amazed that he made a song about sparrows sound good.

Ramiele was next.  Compared to others on the show, she’s one of the weakest.  Cute little singer, much more talent than I could even imagine on a personal level.  But, I think she’s going to be in the bottom two this week.  I couldn’t even listen to the entire song.  I hit fast forward on the TiVo remote about half way through.  Boooring…

Jason - Mr. Dreadlocks.  He’s very likable and he picked a song that suits his style.  Same as Ramiele, I don’t think he’s the strongest singer, but I think he’ll go on for a few more weeks until he also leaves his 15 mins of fame.  If he plays his cards right after Idol, he should join a cute boy band and go on Disney Channel because the teenie boppers will LOVE him.  He falls in line with the Jonas Brothers.  Cute face, boy band sound, sweet personality, lovable.  It’s so funny to listen to the judges.  Randy usually says OK, Paula usually says it was great and then Simon usually looks for that negative comment just to get the boos.

Carly came next with her booming voice, booming confidence and perfect song choice - “Here You Come Again”.  WOW!  She’s going to go far in this competition.  I don’t love the tattoos, but it’s not about tattoos, hair, clothes.  It’s about sound and she really blew me away with her ending.  Randy didn’t like the ending last week, but he liked this week.  Of course, Simon looked for the boos again and this time HE commented on her clothes.  He’s one to talk about wardrobe when he only owns 5 black shirts and 1 white one.  And, in previous shows, he tells Paula it’s not about clothes and hair - it’s about sound.  He had nothing bad to say about her singing, so he had to comment about her clothes.

David Archuleta is favored to win in the tabloids, but I’m not certain.  Like Jason, I think he’ll end up in a boy band somewhere and maybe even end up on kids programming.  Cute kid but I don’t think he’ll take the gold.  All three judges said it was the best performance of the night.  I don’t agree.  I thought he sounded good, but BEST??  I beg to differ.  The judges are really pushing for David to win and I’m not sure why.

Kristy Lee will be in the bottom two with Ramiele this week and, after that performance, she’s going home.  At first, I thought Kristy would push through because she is a “country girl” and I thought she could pull off the country sound better than Ramiele.  It’s too bad because Kristy has the “look” of an Idol, but the voice isn’t strong enough.  Last week, the American flag brought her through for another week because she pulled on the Patriots heart strings.

Syesha sang “I Will Always Love You” in the Whitney Houston sort of way.  Big song but I think she pulled it through enough to move onto the next level.  She looked very Beyonce tonight too.  She had great control over her voice and didn’t screech the high notes - although some of them were a little pitchy “DAWG”.  It was good enough to move onto next week, but she’s definitely not one of the strongest singers in the competition.  I couldn’t wait to hear the judges’ comments and, thankfully, they agreed with me.  Not bad enough to go home and not the best.  Some of the big notes were a little “off”.

Michael closed down the show and he’s also not one of the strongest singers.  I don’t think he has enough to go all the way.  He’s lucky that Kristy Lee is so weak because it took the bullseye off of him.  I didn’t like the gospel sound for him.  The judges loved him and I think he’ll stick around for another week (or maybe two), but he won’t be here for much longer.

My predictions as of April 1, 2008 - Carly will take #1.  It will come down to Carly & David Cook with Brooke and David A. in the final four.  I think Brooke will stick around because she appeals to the older audience/voters.

Thursday, March 27, 2008

Trace vs. Piers! - Celebrity Apprentice Finale

Kim Reis

It’s down the finale in Celebrity Apprentice.  Trace Adkins vs. Piers Morgan.  As I watch the show and HOPE Trace wins, I’m glad to see that Piers is in the Final Two.  He deserves to be here (even though he was sometimes mean in the process). 

As the previous celebs were voted off (sometimes two at a time), each person had many strengths and weaknesses.  14 celebrities started, but Trace and Piers were the last ones standing and both earned their spot.  As Trump said, “Good vs. Evil.  England vs. US.“

Trace’s team had Lennox Lewis & Mary Lou.  Piers had Steven Baldwin and Carol.

Piers’ strategy was to gather the best auction prizes to raise the most money (and to get the celebrities drunk quickly so they will spend lots of money).  Trace’s strategy was to bring in more celebrities at the event and to organize a great event.  My opinion: Money Talks.  Although I do love Trace, I think Piers’ strategy is a language that Trump understands loud & clear.

Sidebar: Trump is not good at reading scripts on live TV.  He doesn’t sound comfortable.  Choppy.

Back to the action…

Piers actually apologized for being rude to Steven Baldwin.  I don’t think it was a sincere apology.  It was all shrewd business.  Piers sure was raising some serious auction items to raise some serious dollars.  Steven was not doing well in selling tickets to the event and Piers was sweating it.

Trace was portrayed as doing duties that were useless.  Like, he had to find black nail polish for one of the Backstreet Boys.  Give me a break!!!  This show did not showcase the BS Boys in a good light.  It made them look like total pre-madonnas.  I loved how Trace commented about the B.S.B.  So funny!!!  Trace was able to bring in some country stars who were going to attend the event. (and hopefully spend lots of money on the auction).  But, I’m surprised that he didn’t bring in more powerful country stars.  The country community seems like such a family, and I can’t believe he couldn’t bring in some heavy hitters like Garth Brooks, Dolly Parton, Martina McBride, etc.

Trace’s children and wife surprised him during the heat of the organizing moment.  It really showed a humble side of a genuinely nice guy.  So sweet!  Showed his soft side.

Where do these people get this kind of money for the auction??  I mean, seriously!  They could share some of their money with me!!  One guy bid $200,000 for two items.  WOW!!!  Piers raised over $300k in the auction.  He kicked Trace’s butt on that.  Holy moly!

The B.S.B. performed.  I guess it was “OK”.  It just looked so “90s” to me.  I didn’t like B.S.B. before and their attitude sure did solidify my opinions.

Trace’s focus was on the event and ticket sales, but unfortunately that didn’t raise big bucks.  In the end, Piers won Celebrity Apprentice and that’s what Trump had to do.  Piers’ big win was well deserved, although I’m sad because I really liked Trace in a personal way.  What a gracious guy!  If you saw his performance of “You’re Gonna Miss This”, it sure does explain my life.  I can’t believe I have a 16-year-old and a 10-year-old.  Weren’t they just born??  If you haven’t heard Trace’s song, you’ve just got to take a moment to check it out and reflect on your own life for just a moment.

BOY!  I sure did want to be on The Apprentice back in 2005!  Now that I work at NBC, I think my chances of being on the show have been shattered because I think the rules say I can’t work at NBC.  DARN!

Tuesday, March 25, 2008

Dancing With the Stars - Week 2

Kim Reis

Dancing with the Stars - Week #2.  This is their last chance to WOW America before two couples get voted off the show.  Here’s how I see it:

Steve Guttenberg is so darn CUTE!!  Last week he lip synced “HI MOM!“  This week he mouthed “HI DAD!“  So cute!  He had nice footwork this week too.  He’ll go pretty far.

Christian de la Fuente needs help.  He’s a latin lover with no rhythm.  Poor dude.  He improved from last week, but still not one of the best. 

Monica Seles danced the Mambo this week.  She’s much more feminine than her tennis days, but not sure she’ll go very far once the vote off process begins.  She’s a little stiff. 

Wait a minute!  Listen to me giving opinions like this!!  I can barely do a box step and - those bodies on those women!  WOW! 

OK - back to my opinions (like they matter in any way- he he he he). 

Penn won’t make it past this week.  Poor, poor Penn.  He’s such a big lug.  Just not a dancer.  But, at least he tried. 

Priscilla Presley: Not sure of her age, but I’m sure she’s over 50.  Maybe even 60?  What a body!  She’s so athletic and she has some unbelievable moves.  She sure is a sexy grandma!  She’ll be around for a while. Her Mambo reminded me of Charro with a little ARRRRRIBA!!!

Shannon Elizabeth: Who is she??  She’s very pretty, very tall and she did well.  Don’t think she’ll go far because she’s not as recognizable.  But the judges loved her for sure.

Jason Taylor: Very light on his feet for a football player.  He did a nice job with the Mambo.  And, I’d hope so since he’s representing MIAMI!  Hot stuff!

I LOVE Marissa (known best for her leading role in Hairspray on Broadway).  I was almost in tears at the beginning of her “story” portion of the show.  She felt like she couldn’t compete with the other dancers.  She’s so darn cute and feels that she has to compete with those tall, slim model figures.  I love her energy, but I predict that she’ll be going home soon.  She got some sympathy votes from the judges tonight.

Adam Carolla - he’s in the same class as “poor” Penn. Adam is a funny guy and dances that way too.  Buh bye Adam.

Still in AWE that Marlee Matlin can dance.  She’s DEAF!!  WHOA!  Her teacher must be an AMAZING leader.  She has the great chance of going far in this competition.  Unfortunately, my poor husband tries to lead when we dance and I just don’t give the poor guy a chance.  He tries to zig, I zag and drag him with me.  I’m trying to learn how to let him lead.

Kristi Yamaguchi is BY FAR the front runner and I predict that she will take the entire thing.  I know it’s only week #2, but she’s got it. 

Mario is RIGHT BEHIND HER.  So she better not look in her rearview mirror cuz he’s on her tail.  He’s a HOT dancer. 

Once the few weaker dancers get voted off, this contest is going to get TIGHT.  Some great dancers this season!!

American Idol - It’s All About the Top Ten

Kim Reis

Tonight’s Idol theme was “Songs from Year They Were Born”.  I didn’t recognize most of the songs and I thought the song choices were poor.

Ramiele: She san “How Do I Get You Alone” by Heart.  Unfortunately, the whole time she was singing, I was comparing her to Carly who sang it much earlier in the competition.  Carly did a MUCH better job (by far), so it made Ramiele sound worse.  She screeched a bit and she didn’t hit the big notes.

Jason: I thought he sounded really good.  My husband said “WOW”.  The judges said they weren’t impressed.  WHAT??!!  I thought he sounded fabulous.  But, at the end of the show, when I compared to the other singers, he was one of the weakest.

Syesha: Sounded solid.  Liked her performance.

Chikezie: The word I would use to describe the performace is “OK”.  Not fab - not horrible.  I don’t think he’s going home, but he wasn’t the best.  Compared to the others, also one of the three weakest.

Brooke:  “Every Breath You Take” was the song.  She made it her own.  LOVED IT!!  When she first started singing, she almost had a hiccup and started the song twice.  Sounded rather weird.  I still stand by my opinion that I think Brooke might take it all.  I think conservative voters will continue to vote her through.  I was disappointed that the judges didn’t love her performance.  She’s going to have to step it up if she wants to stay because the judges are looking for her to out-do herself.

Michael: We had a rocker in ‘da house!!  “We Are the Champions” is the song and that’s what he did.  Rocked me!!  He definitely got the crowd “whooing”.  Michael sounded pretty good, but the background singers sounded horrid.  He’ll be around another week for sure.

Intermission - WHAT was up with Paula’s gloves???!!!  Ugly - with a capital UG!  And, Simon wasn’t wearing a BLACK SHIRT!  Wow!  And, at the beginning of each show, Ryan Seacrest starts at the rear of the audience and says (very dramatically) - “THIS is American Idol!“  The audience screams.  And then, in short order, she comes out from behind a wall on the stage.  How does he get back there so fast???!

OK - back to the show…

Carly:  “Total Eclipse of the Heart” - as soon as I heard the music begin I thought to myself - Ooooh.  This should be good.  And, I was right.  WOW!  Killer!  She rocks.  As it began, she was already making me grit my teeth with excitement as she sounded like she was ready to belt the notes.  She sounded fabulous.  That’s her sound and she rides that type of song very well.  She’ll definitely be in the top four for sure - maybe even top two.  I’m torn between her and Brooke to take it all.  Randy must have had cotton in his ears!!!  I felt like he made his negative comments just to get a reaction.  She sounded great.  Although, Randy was right on one thing.  The run at the end was a little out of tune. 

David: He’s being called the “Golden Child”, but I don’t love him.  Not sure why.  He doesn’t blow me over each time he sings.  I mean, he sings in tune.  But I don’t find him to be as amazing as the judges say he is.  They continue to put him on a pedestal.  I had never heard that song before and it sounded kind of “gospelly” {is that a word?}  Didn’t love it.  He sounds very young. Side note: Did you hear the stories on TMZ about his father being a horrible stage dad?  You should check it out.  Interesting story about how his dad acts backstage.  Not that I’m judging David on that story, but it’s definitely interesting. 

Kristy: Great song choice.  “God Bless the USA” - pulled at the heart strings of America.  She realizes that she’s the weakest singer and she picked a song that people love.  She did get some nice comments from the judges (for the first time).  Simon finally gave her a positive comment and he thinks it was enough to keep her in the competition. 

David Cook: Did they save the best for last?  Could be.  He’s the Bo Bice of 2008.  The real rocker.  His tone reminds me of Eddie Vedder from Pearl Jam.  He sang Billie Jean, a Michael Jackson song, as a rock song.  Kind of weird rendition.  But, I think it worked.  He definitely went out on a limb with originiality.  Very bold, very brave.  The judges think he’s a possible winner.  I think he’ll be in the top 4 - not sure he’s going to win it though.  Simon said it was “amazing”.  Great job!

OK - here’s my prediction:  Three weakest performances were Chikezie, Ramiele and Jason.  I think Ramiele and Jason will be in the bottom two with Ramiele going BUH BYE.  Will I be right?  Hmmm?

Saturday, March 22, 2008

“Deal…Or NO Deal”

Kim Reis

Now - you might not think “Deal or No Deal” is a reality show.  It’s really a game show.  BUT - I consider it a reality show because real people have the opportunity to become millionaires and that’s so exciting to me.  As a matter of fact, when I married my husband 12.5 years ago, the only thing I asked was for him to win Powerball.  YUP!  Still waiting.  I mean, how selfish can he be???  I asked ONE small thing when we got married and he can’t even deliver.  He’s probably waiting for LUCKY year 13.  Yeah, yeah - that’s the ticket.  Patience.

Anyway (why do I always go off on tangents in these blogs??) - NBC10 is sponsoring a casting call for “Deal or No Deal” on Saturday, April 5th from10am-1pm at Twin River.  It’s so exciting!!  In other markets, the DOND casting director said that thousands line up to win a chance to be on the show.  I love these kinds of things!  I tried out for The Apprentice once.  Didn’t make it (obviously). - yes, another tangent.

Although they will shut down the line at exactly 1pm, every person will be guaranteed to be seen in groups of 10 (as long as they arrive before 1pm).  Contestants will have 20 seconds to impress the judges on why they should represent the Southern New England market on the show and win a chance to become a MILLIONAIRE on “Deal or No Deal”!

Here’s the most exciting part!  One lucky person will win a DOND briefcase that contains a golden ticket.  Could it be you???  This golden ticket allows them to meet the casting director FIRST.  No need to wait in line all night in the freezing temperatures.  Not only do they get to meet the casting director FIRST, but they also get to meet him ALONE.  One-on-one.  Not in a group of 10.  Want the chance to win this golden ticket?  CLICK HERE. 

Not only do we have ONE golden ticket, but we also have FIFTEEN VIP tickets.  What is a VIP ticket?  Well, this ticket also allows you to cut the line.  But, this is very different to the golden ticket.  You still meet the casting director in a group of 10.  It’s not a one-on-one event.

And, even if you don’t win a golden ticket OR a VIP ticket - you still can go to Twin River and wait in line.  EVERY PERSON in line is guaranteed to meet the casting director (as long as you arrive BEFORE 1pm).  GOOD LUCK!  I’m anxious to see how RI and SE MA impress the director!  We’re a great area of the country with some great, interesting people.

Now, if you’re a typical “Rhode Islander” - you might be too nervous to drive ALL THE WAY to Twin River.  It’s ALL THE WAY in Lincoln.  Just pack a lunch, make sure you have your cell phone and make arrangements for overnight accommodations (if you feel compelled).  It’s really not that far away and well worth it.  You could actually make a nice day of it.  Win the chance to be on “Deal or No Deal”, have lunch or dinner, see a great show at “Catch a Rising Star” and maybe even play some slots.  Hope to see you there! “Take me to the river….“ {insert music notes here}

As a matter of fact, someone from Barrington has already been picked by DOND and she’s going to Los Angeles where she might be picked to go up on stage.  She didn’t get this opportunity through NBC10.  She actually won the opportunity by purchasing a DOND scratch ticket.  Way cool!  You can read the story by CLICKING HERE.

Come on Southern New England!!!  Let’s represent at the “Deal or No Deal” casting call and SHOW THEM WHAT WE’RE MADE OF!!!

Celebrity Apprentice - The Final Showdown Begins

Kim Reis

I’m so glad that Trace and Piers are in the final showdown together.  I like Trace A LOT and I think Piers deserves to be there.  It was definitely unfair the way they picked the final two, though.  I mean, if I were Carol or Lennox, I’d be rather upset that I didn’t have the chance to prove myself in a final challenge.  Oh well.  I guess that’s how it goes in the real business world.  Sometimes, things just aren’t fair.

I am a big fan of country music, but didn’t know Trace very well.  I knew his work, but never really heard him speak or saw him in concert.  What an interesting guy.  I recently took the Myers Briggs Personality/Style seminar and found out that I’m an ESTJ.  Basically, the ESTJ tells me that I’m an extrovert who likes order, I think way more than I feel and I like to get things done immediately (check it off my list as you might say).  For those of you who have never heard of the Myers Briggs test, you can take one here for free: 

ESTJ - “Administrator”. Much in touch with the external environment. Very responsible. Pillar of strength. 8.7% of total population.

Take Free Myers-Briggs Personality Test

Anyway - as you might be thinking “WHAT DOES THAT HAVE TO DO WITH CELEBRITY APPRENTICE???!“  Well, if I were to guess, I would think Trace is the complete opposite of me.  He’s more of an introvert and I envy that personality style.  He’s a smart guy, but he doesn’t feel like he always has to talk.  He thinks before he speaks and, when he does make a sound, it makes a whole lot of sense.  I really envy that!

Trace vs. Piers should be an interesting showdown next week.  They have to put together a fundraiser with the Backstreet Boys as the headliners.  They will be judged on three criteria: Number of tickets sold, money raised at the celebrity auction and how well they ran their piece of the event. Trace feels that he can win two out of three goals for the challenge (sell the most tickets and best run piece).  Trace is focusing on the event and his celebrity roladex to bring in more celebrities to sell more tickets.  I can’t wait to see what country stars show up.  That should be HUGE!  One of the things he had to do to make sure his part of the event went smooth was make sure the Backstreet Boys’ backstage dressing rooms are to their liking (they are SUCH pre-Madonnas!!!) 

I think Trace is going to win it all - but I think Piers did a great job and really proven himself as a shrewd businessman.  Trace is working to raise money for the The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network.  His daughter suffers from severe food allergies and I hope he gets to raise the $250k for the cause.

Saturday, March 15, 2008

I’m a Big Loser!

Kim Reis

I just got a chance to watch Biggest Loser from March 4th!  I know, I know.  It’s already March 15th and I’m only blogging now.  But, I just haven’t had time, which makes ME a big loser.  So - as I watch it - I get more and more aggravated with my own station (NBC10) for breaking into the show at the high points of the show (like weigh-in results) to give me primary updates.  Couldn’t they just put it in a squeeze back and scroll along the bottom??  Don’t get me wrong, their coverage was great.  But, if I have a choice to watch Biggest Loser or news coverage - Biggest Loser takes the cake!

OK - I’ll get off my soap box now and get into the meat of the show. 

First, why does Biggest Loser do food challenges?  If you’ve ever watched Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew on VH1, he’d never do a drug challenge.  Food is an addiction for most overweight people.  My goodness!  That upsets me.  Especially since I am someone who lost 125 lbs and struggle everyday to keep it off.  I think the food challenges are horrible.

Danny ate 1100 calories to win $9500.  Was it worth it???!!  OK, it was worth it.  What’s a few more minutes on the treadmill.  HAHA HA HAHA!  But, even though he won $9500, it still makes me mad.

The challenge prize was weird this time.  They had to pull themselves across a canyon on a zip cord and collect flags.  It was a difficult challenge and took a lot of upper body strength.  But, the prize was odd.  The winner won a ride in a fighter jet.  If I were a contestant, that would not motivate me one bit.  No desire to ride in a fighter jet.  I would probably puke.

In the end, Bernie used his immunity coupon to save his friend Brittany.  In the end, that caused him to fall below the yellow line with Kelly.  He was perceived as more of a threat, so he went home.  When Bernie first came to the Ranch, I didn’t like him at all.  But he has grown on me.  I felt bad that he went home. 

The contestants are now singles (no more teams).  So, they really need to focus.  My guess is that Danny will be the last contestant standing, but Mark will be the Biggest Loser overall.  I just don’t see a woman taking it…AGAIN!  What is your guess?

Real Life

Kim Reis

I’m so upset!  I’ve been so busy with work and all of the chores that life brings that I haven’t had a chance to watch “my shows”.  Although I have them in my TiVO, I haven’t been able to watch them.  And, it makes it tough to watch any news, read magazines or listen to the radio for fear that I’ll hear what happened before I get the chance to watch it.  Like, for example - I heard that some Biggest Loser “cast-offs” were invited back onto the show.  WHAT???!!  WHO???!!  WHEN???!!  UGH!  I have to hurry up and watch it before someone blows the whistle and ruins it for me.  So, today is a rainy Saturday and I’m gonna take the day to catch up on Biggest Loser, Idol and Celebrity Apprentice.  I’ll blog later.  Although old news - I’ll give my thoughts and opinions (in case you care). 

Sunday, March 09, 2008

Gone Country - Finale

Kim Reis

What a dramatic ending to Gone Country.  For those of you who don’t know - it’s a show on CMT where John Rich (from Big & Rich) is trying to find a new country star.  The catch is that the contestants are already stars.  They are:

Maureen McCormick (AKA Marsha Brady)
Bobby Brown (R&B artist from the 80s/90s)
Diana DeGarmo (former American Idol contestant)
Julio Eglesias Jr. (Julio Eglesias’ son)
Sisqo (R&B singer - big claim to fame is The Thong Song)
Dee Snider (Twisted Sister)
Carnie Wilson (Brian Wilson’s daughter - Beach Boys, and singer from Wilson Phillips)

Maureen McCormick was always known as the “perfect child” while playing Marsha on the Brady Bunch, and she was the most fragile throughout the show.  Bobby Brown is a mess and drinks too much.  He also walks in his sleep and pees where ever he feels like it.  Rather disgusting.  They all had quirks, but those were the two rarest.

These people lived in a house together and prepared to perform in front of John Rich to win a recording contract in country music.  They wrote a country song and spent time on a ranch where they had to become COUNTRY.

What amazed me about this show was how the contestants reacted when it was time to perform.  They are already “stars” in their own right, but they were so nervous about getting on stage to perform.  Over the past several weeks, I’ve watched the show and I actually got nervous for them as they got on stage.  WHY?  They are professionals.  Being someone who has “dabbled” in standup comedy, singing and acting, I felt the same nervousness that they showed on TV.  But I thought stars don’t get nervous.  Obviously - I was wrong.

Amazingly, in the final showdown, they all did a GREAT job.  They all wrote country songs from the heart.  I’m a fan of country music and listen to Cat Country 98.1 and Sirius Channel 60 all the time.  They really did a great job.  I would have picked Diana DeGarmo to win it all.  I can totally see her becoming a country star.  But - John Rich picked JULIO EGLASIAS JR as the winner of the house.  WHAT???!!!  I mean, don’t get me wrong, he sounded great.  A real Latin Lover.  But country star???!!!  I just can’t see it happening.  Time will tell.  John Rich is going to produce an album for him.  I’ll be very surprised if I hear it played on my stations.  Bobby Brown also left the show saying that this won’t be the last time country fans will see him.  Hmmm?  Only time will tell.

Friday, March 07, 2008

Idol After Eliminations (March 7, 2008)

Kim Reis

Well - I was right in my last blog.  Bye bye Luke & Kady.  I didn’t realize they were voting off two last night or I would have made another pick in each gender.  BUT - I must say - if I had picked two more “eject-ees”, I would have lost.  I would have picked Kristy Lee Cook and David Hernandez to go home this past week.  NOT Asia’h or Danny!  Although Asia’h and Danny were not the strongest, I still feel they deserved to be in the top 12.

SO - my picks for next week’s show will be - Kristy Lee Cook and David Hernandez

I still think Brooke will win it all - with David Archuleta, Carly Smithson and Ramiele Maluby going pretty far.

Who are your picks???

Thursday, March 06, 2008

Idol (March 5, 2008)

Kim Reis

I’m sorry it’s been so long since I’ve blogged.  My TiVo is so backed up that I think it may explode.  Busy, busy, busy week. 

OK - enough about excuses.  Let me comment about this week’s Idol.

For the guys - I liked most of them.  Not sure why all the hype about David Archuleta.  Cute kid, nice voice, not sure he’s strong enough to win it all.  But he’ll definitely go far.  This week, I think Luke Menard is heading home.  There are other voices that are stronger than he is.  We’ll see if I’m right tonight.

As for the girls.  Interesting night, dawg!  I thought they all really sounded strong.  I think the girls had a much better night than the guys.  Buh bye Kady Malloy.  Just not strong enough compared to the others.  Although I like Amanda a lot (blonde streak in the front her hair for those of you who don’t know their names), I don’t think America will think she’s mainstream enough to push her through all the way.  But I think she’s unique and she’ll go far.  Next week, I hope she just sings.  I’d like to hear her vocals without the screaming.  I never felt that Syesha Mercado ever “found the note”.  She was all over the place and flat—a lot.  I LOVED Brooke’s performance last night and I really liked Carly’s performance.  Although, Carly’s tattoos have gotta go.

There’s no total standouts yet - but I’m going to go out on a limb and say that I think the next American Idol will be Brooke White.  Who is your pick???

Tuesday, February 26, 2008

Biggest Loser Goes to VEGAS BABY!!

Kim Reis

The blue team won a trip to Las Vegas because of their big win last week.  The black team (Jillian’s team) was very jealous.  My favorite player has been Dan since the beginning, but I think he’s becoming a bit cocky in this episode, which makes me sad.  The blue team seemed like they were really gellin’.  Gellin’ like a felon.  (Sorry, couldn’t resist)  But, as the episode played out, the team started to fall apart a little bit.  There’s more about that as my blog plays out.

When they arrived at the hotel room in Vegas, their shower had a pole in it.  What the heck was that for???!!!

Sorry - I went off track for a moment.  I just couldn’t help wondering what a pole in the shower is truly for.

Very funny - the black team sent room service to the room as a “gift”.  Full of fried foods, desserts and beer.  The blue team was smart and pushed the cart back in the hallway.  NICE THINKIN’!

The blue team went out on the town for the night.  They looked SHAHP!  That’s right - as RIers say - they look SHAAAAAP (no “R”).  They were wearing black suits that fit them perfectly.  They looked great.  They really partied, but I was happy to see that they stayed away from food products.  They went on the Slingshot, which is an amusement park ride on the top of a building.  The funny thing was when Roger sat in the seat of the ride.  Last time he was there, he couldn’t fit because of his larger size.  I know how that feels.  How humiliating!  When we went to Universal Studios a few years ago, I couldn’t fit in the Hulk rollercoaster because I was too large.  We waited in line for 90 minutes, only to get to the front of the line and realize that my big butt wouldn’t fit in the seat.  Not only was I embarrassed, but I felt horrible for my husband and children who waited all that time.  They refused to ride without me and that upset me even more.  UGH!  Fond memories—NOT! 

OK - enough about me.  Back to Biggest Loser…

The blue team stayed out late and Mark was the only one who woke up and worked out early.  When Roger woke up, he was pissed that Mark didn’t wake him up to work out.  Dan was pissed that they DID wake him up with all the arguing.  The team seemed a bit divided, but they got over it pretty quick.  They went to a tattoo shop and got “PRIDE” tattoos.  I wonder if they will still feel that PRIDE and unity when they start voting each other out, one-by-one?  And, Dan’s mother is gonna kick his butt when she sees that huge forearm tattoo!!  If that were my son, I’d be so sad.  I sculpted that little body for 9 months.  To have a huge, permanent tattoo in a moment of impulse - UGH!  Just my opinion.

Who was voted out this week??  Visit NBC.com.

Chachi Had a Baby!

Kim Reis

Scott Baio is 46…and Pregnant.  What a show!!  If you haven’t seen it, it airs on VH1 and it definitely makes me think of Chachi in a different light.  Yes - Chachi from Happy Days.  He’s a jerk!  He treats his girlfriend like crap.  He’s selfish and a whiney baby.  Nothing like his Chachi counterpart.

This “semi” reality show follows Scott Baio through his “real life”.  He’s very immature and you would not know that he’s a 46-year-old grown man.  Last season, Scott went through his struggles with growing up and how his girlfriend Renee tries to get him to be a man.  At the end of last season, he proposed to Renee and, while proposing, she told him she was pregnant.

Hence, now we get to this season.  Renee finally had her baby in the last episode.  Little Baby Bailey was born via C-Section and Scott actually seemed supportive.  But, I wonder how long it will last?  Throughout the episode he whined about how his life was over because he was going to have a baby.  He wanted to have one last party because he felt like he’d never party again.  How pathetic!  My best parties have been with my children.  Having a baby does not stop your life for goodness sake!  Scott Baio - GET A LIFE!!!  Sometimes I wonder if the reason for his reactions is because of his age.  He’s had too much time to be selfish and has no idea how to share his life with someone else - especially a demanding little baby.

I have some friends who had babies late in life and, I’m not sure that’s such a good idea.  They over-analyze everything their kids eat, they won’t let them play with plastic toys, they freak out if their kids get a little scrape on their knee.  I’m so glad I had my children young in life.  Money was definitely tighter, but we lived for the moment and the kids were allowed to be kids.

I wonder if Scott will stay with his two girls (Renee and Bailey)?  Will he let them down?  Will his selfish and destuctive behavior ruin this special time?  Will he be able to handle Renee’s post partum (and I’m sure she’ll have some)?  More to follow…

Click Here to see excerpts from Scott Baio is 46…and Pregnant!

Wednesday, February 20, 2008

The Biggest Loser (Feb 19, 2008)

Kim Reis

This week on The Biggest Loser, the final 9 contestants got to go home to their families for a week.  DANGER, DANGER!  I always love the part when their families look shocked at the contestants’ transformation.  Being someone who lost 125 lbs, it always make me teary to see them go home.  My favorite player is Dan.  He reminds me of a good friend and he’s really matured so much on The Ranch.

The blue team is Bob’s team (Dan, Jay, Mark, Roger) and the black team is Jillian’s team (Maggie, Bernie, Brittany, Paul & Kelly).

I would love to see Paul & Kelly (ex-husband and wife) get back together.  They are so cute.  When Paul goes home, we met his girlfriend (Julie) and she looks exactly like Kelly.  Paul still loves Kelly - poor Julie.  And, Paul totally over-ate when he went nuts on chicken wings at a restaurant.  EEK!  He could be next.  Jillian was so mad at him for ignoring her phone calls while he was off The Ranch.

Many of the contestants came home to huge parties, surrounded by friends and families.  I felt like the families were rude because they had all kinds of junk food.  It’s hard enough for these contestants to lose the weight.

Mark (original black team with his brother) is a jerk!  I’ve disliked him throughout this entire season.  He threw all the junk food in the GAH-bage at his family’s PAH-ty.  I don’t dislike him because of the junk food - I just think he’s very rude.  I hope he goes home soon.  And, he’s so mean to his brother, Jay.

Brittany has only lost 33 lbs.  I’m not sure what her problem is??  Most everyone else has lost more than 70lbs.  She’s probably going home next.

Almost everyone who went home made some kind of mistake.  A lot of drinking, parties, junk food and over eating.  It clearly showed that these contestants are not ready for the “real world” - outside The Ranch.

Casting for the next Biggest Loser has started.  Visit NBC.com to sign up and represent Southern New England!!! I’m trying to talk my husband into doing it with my mother.  Son-in-law and mother-in-law DUKE IT OUT on The Ranch.  HA HA HA HA!