A VERY IMPORTANT Bachelorette 5 Recap – 6/29/09
-First things first, we are having our first ever sale in the RealitySteve.com merchandise store, effective immediately. Starting today, everything in the store is now $3 off for a limited time. So click on the link to the right and pick up a great gift for the whole family (Ok, that just sounded good). The sale won’t last too long, so get in while you can.
-Hope you all enjoyed the Holly and DeAnna interviews. It was a lot of fun, and I can guarantee, you’ll be hearing more of that sometime in the future. Here’s the problem I run in to with the interviews. I think a lot of you want to hear what the contestants on this show have to say. Trust me, if I could talk with every single person after they got eliminated, I would. But I can’t. ABC/Next Entertainment (Fleiss’ company) will never give them to me because they know what my site is about, they know all I do is make fun of their show, and they know I’m aware of the heavy manipulation and editing that goes on. So if they give me their eliminated contestants to interview, half the questions I want to ask they’ll never be able to answer. So, in a way, I kinda understand. I probably wouldn’t let them talk to me either.
-These contestants are only allowed to talk to ABC/Next Entertainment approved media outlets for a year from when their show airs, BUT ALSO, are pretty much never allowed to give away show secrets. That’s where ABC/Next Entertainment holds that lawsuit above their heads. Have you ever heard of any former contestant getting sued for that “mystery $5 million”? Of course not. But the threat is there, and a lot of contestants are scared off by it. But let’s say someone does decide to run their mouth to a blog or tabloid mag about what really goes on, and ABC/Next Entertainment decides to sue, well then this thing goes to court, and then the show secrets will get out during testimony. Solution? They need to have a contestant on that’s filthy rich and can afford to lose $5 million. Then, and only then, will all the show secrets ever get out. Lets hope it happens someday.
-So that’s the dilemma. When I do get interviews with people from the show, I can try to get as much as I can out of them, but nobody will EVER spill EVERYTHING. Just isn’t going to happen. I do my best with what I’m dealt with and try to get the answers you guys want to hear. Holly did the interview because she didn’t have to go through ABC/Next Entertainment, her finale aired over a year ago. Plus, she wasn’t on Jesse’s season, and her answers towards Jesse were because she dated him, not because of anything she learned while on the show. ABC/Next Entertainment never would’ve released DeAnna to me if I asked them, she did that for me as a favor, and I thought she did rather well. Did I know there were certain subjects we couldn’t broach? Of course I did. We didn’t need to say it, but it was understood. She didn’t tell me, and I didn’t ask. I know what I can and can’t get away with. So yeah, contestants who aren’t afraid to talk to me and don’t want to go through ABC/Next Entertainment, I will take any day of the week. But if their season just ended, just know that getting any real true dirt from them probably isn’t going to happen. Some of them have just become really good at answering questions, that you can kinda read between their lines in their answers.
-Now you might ask, “Well, you had Jeremy on right after his season ended, and you had Megan on last season while it was still airing.” Very true. Jeremy is a lawyer. He knows his contract like the back of his hand, so he was well aware he couldn’t get in trouble if he answered questions how he was supposed to. And he did. As for Megan, that’s kind of a head scratcher. I thought she was great when came on. She was very candid. However, since I posted her interview, I have never heard back from her. Kinda disappointing, and I don’t quite know what happened, but the minute that interview aired, I haven’t heard word one from her. My guess? Someone got to her and told her to shut up, she got scared, and figured cutting off contact with me would be the best for her. Do I know this for a fact? No, just a guess. But I find it awfully strange the timing of how everything went down. To each their own.
-Lets start off by immediately telling you this isn’t going to be a normal recap. We will resume that next week. Lets face it, last night’s episode was about two things, and two things only: Jake confronting Wes, and the return of Ed. Did you notice that in a two hour episode, they finished the first FOUR hometown dates in fifty minutes? That’s never happened before. Each guy only got one segment, and if anyone can tell me anything memorable from any of those, other than the fact that Jesse’s brother looked like a bloated Kid Rock, be my guest. Put it this way, it wasn’t memorable enough to write what I usually write during hometown dates, when I have plenty to cover regarding Wes’ editing. I need to share a few things with you regarding what I was talking about last week in terms of Wes’ editing, plus, the ridiculous return of Ed. Consider this weeks column a lesson in “Bachelorette 101″. Kind of a behind the curtain peek, if you will. This week, I am your teacher. Some of you may be aware of what I’m going to talk about, but I think most of you are clueless. Not saying that in a negative way, I’m just saying that you probably don’t follow television, and reality television, as much as I do. Trust me, I’ve read some of your emails, I’ve seen your comments, seen some of your tweets, and it’s time you become fully educated in what this show is really about. I promise, we will get back our regularly scheduled column next week. But for this week, after reading what I’ve read in the last five or six days, I realized there are A LOT of you that need to hear this, and frankly, I want to blow the lid on a couple of issues here.
-Once again, this isn’t something that I think happens with the show, or is some sort of speculation, it’s what I know. And I’ve got two pieces of evidence backing me up this week to help corroborate my story. One is Wes, who conducted a radio interview last Tuesday where he pretty much out-ed the producers on their manipulation and editing. Awesome, Wes. One of the first ones to ever do so publicly. For that, I applaud him. I feel bad for the hatchet job they’ve done on his editing, so I’d do an interview with him anytime. The second piece of evidence I have is from an interview done last year with a former “Bachelor” producer. This person goes on the condition of anonymity for fear of getting black balled in the industry (which I completely understand), but if there’s a better behind-the-scenes, here’s-how-things-are-really-done interview out there with a former contestant/producer/director from this show, I’ve never seen it. You will want to read this interview. Trust me. Pretty much confirms everything I’ve been trying to tell everyone for the last few seasons. I know a lot of you say, “Well, we know the show is edited”, but I don’t think many of you understand HOW MUCH its edited, and to what extent. Wes’ interview, and this interview with a former producer will tell you EXACTLY what I mean. This show is basically lying to its viewing audience on a weekly basis, to the point of misrepresenting peoples characters.
-One thing we need to put an end to right now is the people that say, “I can’t believe Jillian gave Wes a rose after he said all that stuff. How can she be so stupid?” Jillian is watching the show when you watch the show. In case you haven’t noticed (and I’m speaking mostly about Wes’ edit last week), all the things you couldn’t believe he was saying were: a) in 1-on-1’s with just camera (on the show, this is referred to as an “ITM” – in the moment), b) in voice overs, or c) sitting around with the guys. Jillian is unaware what Wes says in his ITM’s while the show is filming, she is unaware of any voice overs he is giving, nor was she around when he made the comment to the group of guys about “being here six episodes”, etc. I will get to this later. You can criticize her for keeping him around because you don’t like his hair, or think he’s creepy, or don’t like his music, etc. However, you need to remember that Jillian isn’t aware of things he’s saying during filming. The producers will never run to her and say, “Hey, we were just interviewing Wes and he told us he’s here for the fame.” Even though he never said that (which I’ll get to next). Once again proving how fake this show is. If one of the men reveals in their ITM something that could potentially sway Jillian’s decision one way or another, but the producers choose not to tell her, how is that helping her find “someone to fall in love with” and potentially become engaged to? It’s not. It’s called “producing the best dramatic television show they can.” I can’t stress this enough: THIS IS A TELEVISION SHOW. AND THE ONLY THING THAT KEEPS TV SHOWS ON THE AIR IS INTEREST AND RATINGS. If they don’t give you some sort of drama, your interest wanes. Especially this season.
-So how did Wes get screwed on the editing? Well, lets just call it a case of “Frankenbite” (I will explain later). As mentioned earlier, Wes did a radio interview last Tuesday with some station here in Dallas. I’ll put up the link to the site so you can listen for yourself (it’s about 5 minutes long), but here are the two most important pieces to what he said.
In regards to him talking about being able to “taste the fame”, here’s what he said verbatim:
“But I can tell you that a lot of what was said was either taken out of context or it was edited in with voice overs, on different subject matters. For instance, like last night when I said, ‘I can taste the fame, I can feel it’, when I heard that, I almost fell on the floor and had a heart attack.
What I was talking about was, they (the producers) asked me a question, ‘What’s it like Wes when you’re writing a song?’ And I said, ‘Well, it’s kinda strange. Sometimes I can write a song in five minutes sometimes it takes me a few days, but, when it comes to me, it’s like I can feel it, I can taste it, it comes inside of me, and then it comes out on pen and paper.’ So, basically they can just take what I say, and take different sentences and put them together.
And in talking with the rest of the guys about “being here six episodes”, here’s what he had to say:
“They play the middle part of my conversation but they don’t play the beginning or the end. I was talking to the guys and I was saying, ‘You know guys, I understand there’s people that think I’m here for the wrong reasons. Well, I do have a CD coming out, I do need to be back home working. I said look, if I was just here for the fame and publicity, I’ve already made six shows, I’ve already got the publicity, but I’m still here, and I’m still here because I choose to be here. I want to be here for the girl, I want to see if anything happens between me and Jillian. I was definitely there for Jillian.’”
I’d say that’s pretty self-explanatory. It all comes down to this: If ANY contestant uttered the line, “I am not in love with her”, all the producers have to do is take one three-letter word out of that sentence (“not”), and it changes the whole context of what was said. “I am not in love with her” becomes “I am in love with her”. I’d say those are about as different of statements as you can make, no? Wes was asked a question about how it feels to write a song, he makes a couple comments about how he “can taste it, it runs through me”, they add in two words “the fame”, and it completely changes the whole context of what he says and makes 90% of the female audience start screaming what an a-hole he is. So to even those who say, “Well, it’s not like they can put words in your mouth. You said what you said.” Actually, totally inaccurate. They can make you say whatever they want you to say. It’s called editing. Wes never said the line that was presented to us last week about wanting to “taste the fame, it runs through him, etc”. He was talking about writing a song, but they added in “fame”, and there’s your storyline. Like we said last week, do you honestly think that someone would be that stupid to just start talking to the cameras about being there for those reasons? C’mon people. Think. Here is the link to the full interview Wes did. Scroll down the page and you’ll find it:
-Still don’t believe they can add in, or take out, words to these peoples sentences? Let me bring in excerpts from this interview someone emailed to me they found online done last year. It’s by a former “Bachelor” producer who wished to remain anonymous. I think this question and answer pretty much speaks for itself. Here’s what it said:
Q: Does the editing process do justice to the contestants or is there a vast difference between what happened during the taping and what appears on the broadcast? In other words, does the editing carve out a story line or play up certain personalities in order to make it more interesting? I think this is the general assumption that the audience has.
A: TOTALLY! Everyone always ask if what we see on TV is really what happened and for the most part it is but, going back to the film 100% and air 1%, the viewer is only getting to see the really good stuff and, even still, if the stories are many we are going to edit them down to the most compelling bits, therefore leaving out (often times) how somebody goes from seemingly normal to totally coo coo pants. We have even gone so far as to “frankenbite,” where you take somebody saying, “of course I’d like to say that I love him” and cutting the bite together to say “of course I love him,” cutting out the very important “I’d like to say.” [It's] definitely very misleading to the viewer and unfair to the cast member, but they sign up for this, fully knowing the reputation of the reality world.
So yes, you can always say, “Well, it’s their fault for going on the show. They knew what they were getting into.” True, but only to a certain extent. I think in recent seasons, a lot of these people that are cast don’t really know what they’re getting into, and I know they don’t read every single line of their contract. They go in thinking, “I’ll have a good time, I’ll meet some people, and hopefully I won’t embarrass myself.” Well, that’s all fine and dandy, and they may leave the show thinking they didn’t embarrass themselves. But if a producer pulls the beginning part of a sentence they said in Week 1 and splices it together with the ending of a different sentence from something they said in Week 3, then it could very well be embarrassing, and something they never said. I’ve said it from the beginning, I’m the first one to say you are fair game the minute you sign up to be on a reality show, but when I read stuff like this, and we’ve got former producers of the show admitting to it publicly, I’d say this show should come under a little more fire, don’t you? How can I possibly take ANYTHING that ANYONE of these contestants says seriously anymore? I can’t, and neither should you.
Want more proof? How about this little nugget:
Q: What tricks or strategies does the show employ to amp up the drama and tension during the taping of the show?
A: Well, in the private one on one interviews with a producer (like me) it is the producers job to get the sh*t talking started, like “tell me honestly what you think of Sally” — if the interviewee does not want to respond in a catty way then the producer will usually go to the next level, like “well I personally think she is a self absorbed, attention starved skank,” and then see if the person will take the bait. Once you start learning who in the house is not well liked it is easy to start seeding conversations and gossip. Also, if the conversations linger too long on favorite movies and stuff the producers will step in a say, “ok we all know we signed up for a TV show — so if you don’t start talking about something more topical then you can’t have the sushi you requested tonight.” The smarter cast members start to realize that everything can be bartered. Like, “I will give you a good one-on-one interview about Sally, IF you let me listen to my iPod for the rest of the day.”
Once again, some of you may have heard things like this, but to hear it straight from a producers mouth is a different story. I’ve been hearing this stuff for years now, so its not really new to me. One famous story that’s made the rounds is that on the application for the show they ask what was the saddest moment in your life, and the person in question talked about the death of their grandmother. Well, when they got eliminated, instead of asking them how they felt about the elimination and why they think they were eliminated, the producer asked them to go into detail about their grandmothers death, essentially trying to get this person to cry. They would get the footage of them crying, THEN ask a question about them leaving the show, and now that they have tears in their eyes, it makes it seem like they’re crying over being eliminated, when in reality, they had just re-lived a tragic life experience. “Then why even answer the question?” Because some of them don’t know any better. But that’s not the point. The story they are showing you on screen is not what really happened. It’s all lies. Nothing you’re seeing is real, and you have every right to question everything you see. To read the full interview, click on this link:
So even if some of you out there are still responding, “Hey, I know it’s fake, but I like the drama”, I don’t know what to tell you. Even the drama isn’t real. Maybe if Juan and David really hated each other, it’d be more interesting. But they don’t. All a producer driven storyline. And yeah, if Wes is mouthing off about wanting to be famous and deceiving Jillian, then it makes for great TV. But it didn’t happen. I just don’t see how that is even remotely interesting when it’s concocted by producers who are willing to spare no expense to tell a story. They could care less how they edit somebody, no matter how bad it makes them look. You know why? It’s their job. If they’re not good at it, ABC/Next Entertainment will find someone who’s better at it. Ask any reality show producer or cameraman if they like their job (especially on this show). I guarantee if they’re being honest, not one of them will admit to enjoying what they’re doing, but knows it’s a job and they need to pay the bills.
-Then there’s the whole scene of Jake confronting Wes about a girlfriend named “Laurel”. Once again, I don’t know what to tell you. If you don’t believe Wes, and you actually think that he went on this show with a serious girlfriend, knowing she probably would notice the guy is gone for over a month, probably gonna find out the reason for it when she sits down to watch the show, and then realizes what he was on the show for, well then, you are much more gullible than I thought. I really am amazed at how many people are believing what they’re seeing. Here’s a general rule for most of the guys (and girls probably) who go on this show: I think most of them who go on have “girlfriends” back home. Ones that, if things don’t work out, they can always go back to. Lets face it, for the most part, the guys that appear on these shows are decent looking guys. Probably isn’t hard for them to get dates. So yeah, to say Wes, or any of the other guys for that matter, don’t have someone back home that they are “friends with” back home, would be pretty ignorant. How about other contestants you hear about that, after their experience on the show, end up running back to an ex and getting back together? Here’s a short list that I can come up with:
Jenni (from Brad’s season): Her ex-boyfriend actually picked her up from the airport when she came home from the show, and now they’re engaged. Might even be married by now.
Melissa Rycroft: Lets face it, she said she’s been friends on and off with Tye for 2 years, but the “timing was never right”. Her whole ordeal happens, and yet again, a little more than six months after accepting Jason’s proposal last November, she’s engaged to someone else.
Shannon (crazy, dental chick from Jason’s season): Admitted in her post exit interview (which happened around 3 months after she went on the show), that she was happy and back together with her ex-boyfriend.
Kate Brockhouse (Andy’s season): Probably don’t remember her from the show, but I referenced the fact she had a blog about the show afterwards that ripped it up and down. Granted, she was told to stop because she was giving away show secrets, but in the blog, she actually ADMITTED she went on the show with a boyfriend, and has since gotten married.
So maybe it’s a little more prevalent for women contestants to go running back to ex’s than it is for the men. I actually posed this question myself to a former “Bachelorette” contestant in an email. The person I asked was Lisa, who as you know is one of the models in the RealitySteve.com store and finished 3rd during Lorenzo’s season. I asked her this about three months ago in an email because it was right around the time I’d heard Melissa was dating her ex-boyfriend Tye. And knowing that wasn’t the first time a former bachelorette contestant had run back to an ex, I asked her to explain this phenomenon where, during the show, they’re crying about how they’re so incredibly in love with someone, and the minute they get dumped, they go running back to an ex. Here was Lisa’s answer, which I thought was very telling:
“Actually I think that what happens is that most girls are single when they apply for the show (except for people like Kate, which I still don’t understand). I was. But then the casting process takes up to 6 months (like it did in my case) and the girls that get cast for the show aren’t as single as they were 6 months ago (I wasn’t). Between applying and leaving for Italy I dated one guy for a couple of months, broke up and then started seeing another guy (my current BF) about a week before I left. I also still had some feelings for my ex-ex-boyfriend and we even talked about getting back together when the show was airing.
For me, my ex-ex-boyfriend was just as wrapped up in the airing of the shows as I was and we talked a lot during that time. Heck, I even started talking to my college boyfriend again who hadn’t wanted to even email with me up till that point (we had a pretty bad breakup). I can very easily see how it is easy to get back together with an ex through this process. In the end, I chose to have an exclusive relationship with my current BF but it could have just as easily gone the other way. Watching yourself on TV every Monday is tough, and then reading terrible things that people have said about you on the Internet is even tougher. You need a support system to come out of it as sane as possible. Sometimes people can only find that its someone that knows them really well. PLUS you can’t date (well, not supposed to) when the show is airing so if you need some type of support from a male then you have to already know that person and be cool just hanging out watching TV and movies on the couch every night and ordering take out. Does that make sense?”
Interesting to hear that side of things. I never looked at it that way. Whatever the case, my point in this was I’m sure most of the guys who appear on this show have a female “friend” or two back home that they could always go back to if things don’t work out on the show. Doesn’t necessarily mean they’re a “girlfriend.” So basically this show somehow found out about Wes’ friend “Laurel”, and created a storyline out of it. There is no way that Wes admitted to having an exclusive girlfriend while he was filming the show. Just didn’t happen. I mean, you saw the way it played out last night, with Jake in his questionable airline outfit showing up at Jillian’s hotel room to warn her about Wes. That was a bad daytime soap opera scene if you ask me. Really Jake? You’ve known this girl for a month and yet you’re SO concerned for her well being that you call TANNER of all people to ask if you’re doing the right thing? Please. I didn’t buy any of that garbage last night. You probably shouldn’t either. But hey, I understand some of you get caught up in this stuff. It’s my job to bring you back to the real world and tell you what you saw last night was a complete bogus storyline created solely for dramatic purposes. Jake was somehow coerced into coming back, and that whole scene was just for show. Sorry to burst your bubble. Don’t know what else to tell ya’. On a side note, for those asking me if this is the same “Laurel” who is Brad Womack’s ex, the answer is “yes”. There. Let your conspiracy rumors begin.
-Now lets talk about the return of Ed. Shocking, huh? Yeah, not really. I told you two weeks ago it was going to happen, and considering the way he returned, still really with no good explanation other than “I feel I made a mistake”, pretty much should tell you all you need to know about how “scripted” that whole exit/return was. I will be the first to admit that I was a little confused as to when Ed was returning. In a previous column, I stated that Wes didn’t last past the hometown dates. Obviously I was wrong, because I screwed my math up. I’ve always known who the final four, final three, and final two were, but I got confused when they went to the 30 guys and 5 hometown dates. If it were a regular season, after the four hometown dates, the remaining three men would then go off to their final destination. Well this season, after the hometown dates, the four remaining men actually go to Spain first, and then to Hawaii. So when I had found out early on that Wes “gets to the final four”, it was before I realized there were going to be 5 hometown dates. So you see what I’m getting at. Yes, Wes goes home next week. Don’t think many of you are shocked to hear that.
-As for Ed himself, some interesting news regarding him that’s come to light in the last week or so. The rumors circulating are that he’s left a female in Chicago high and dry about his “Bachelor” experience. A girl that he was dating who believed she was his girlfriend. And the girl is pretty upset at what has transpired. As the story goes, I received an email from a friend of one this girl explaining to me that her friend “without a doubt” was Ed’s girlfriend before he left for the show. This girl was under the assumption they were dating when he left to film the show. He came back to Chicago (after the bogus work excuse), then left again, saying he had to go to Texas for something . This girlfriend then couldn’t get a hold of him for a while after he left for “Texas” (i.e. Spain and Hawaii). An email was sent to him asking “So I guess we’re seeing other people now” and Ed responded with “No, I just need to wait until this show is over”. This Chicago girlfriend of Ed’s is under the assumption they are still together and she just has to wait out the show. I’ve have tried through a couple different channels to get this girl to talk to me, but she wants to stay out of the media because she feels embarrassed her boyfriend went on a dating show on national television. Wow. Good stuff. So Lindsey, if you’re out there and want to officially tell your side of the story, whenever that may be, I’m here for ya’. Kinda sucks what he did to you.
So that’s it for this week. I hope I educated enough of you out there to where you stop believing the lies this show spreads on a weekly basis. Hey, that’s why I’m here. No “Reality Roundup” on Friday as I’m on a plane to California tomorrow morning for 4th of July weekend. As always, any questions, comments, emails, praises, criticisms, email me at steve@realitysteve.com. Until next week.
Steve, I have been a loyal fan for years and I love you, but come on already. I don’t care about who said what and what is true… it’s stupid, pointless, entertainment!!! We all know it is completely ridiculously false, but it’s fun. I used to enjoy coming here to see what you nicknamed people and read your funny comments, unfortunately, now it’s turned into a “if you believe it” pile of crap! If there are people out there who do believe it, then they are delusional!! Please, stop doing interviews with people who think they are famous after being on this show – let’s get back to the basics!!! I would gladly wear your t-shirt – if you were just the same ol’ hilarious Steve I used to love to read on Tuesday’s! Now, I get sick of reading about editing / scripting / etc. Just get back to making fun of these people and being funny Steve again. I have been a fan for so long, but I am kind of done now! I am sure I will be back next week, but I hope that we can get YOU back!! I miss Steve of way back when!
I think the majority of the Bachelor/Bachlorette viewers realize that not everything in the show is exactly as it appears, but don’t care and will continue to watch it anyway for the entertainment factor. Why you waste so much time and energy trying to prove the lack of realism to the gullible few is beyond me. I tuned in today to see your recap of the show and have a laugh. Not to be barraged with this “It’s all bulls**t” nonsense yet again. OK, IT’S FAKE…DUH…WE GET IT!! Now can you get back to what you do best please?
RS – I enjoyed the blog today because it does shed light on the fact that this show is totally bogus but like a lot of people – I still enjoy watching it. You bring a new dimension to reality so to speak.
Your blog was very informative and interesting but like the poster Stephlk74B said, I want YOU back next week doing what you do best, bringing us a hysterically funny recap of the show. Because of YOU, Rs, we all watch this show with different eyes but don’t let that be your focus. There was so much to trash this week – like Jake’s crying scene on the balcony. Good Lord!!! man up Jake!! L0L
I just have to say…did anyone find the comment from Reid’s dad foreshadowing? “If this is the one, you need to fight for her, tell her how you feel”, something to that extent. To me it just screamed “Here is the guy who was going to get the boot in the F2, but he opens up, lays everything on the line and does his best to get the girl.” Granted, it could be the cutting and splicing of the previews that make it look like someone did a plea for Jill’s heart when she already made her mind to let them go, but that comment just really screamed at me for some reason.
Regarding Wes. Yes, they do edit on Bachelorette, and yes, they do mold certain characters to fit their story line, but that’s your “evidenceâ€? An interview with the guy who came off looking like a jerk on the very TV show you’re talking about? Conflict of interest, don’t you think? I mean, do you really think he’s going to speak highly of “The Bacheloretteâ€? And, even if what he said is true, it doesn’t mean that he isn’t there for the “wrong reasonsâ€.
And this stuff about the producers actually producing the cast members is old news. We KNOW they put words in their mouths, we know they’re showing us selective bites, I’m surprised it wasn’t mentioned about all the alcohol they give them.
Your comments about Dave and Juan’s fight not being real, and Jillian and Wes are too easily dismissed. Sure, they could be true, but as far as you putting them off, you don’t have actual hard evidence. You’re just speculating what is probably true, but you don’t know. That makes these comments without merit or credit. Also, you mention how this is “not remotely interesting†yet you wrote paragraph after paragraph about it.
Regarding Ed. A list of people who had significant others was given, and why it wasn’t a big deal, and then the blog went on to say that Ed was being shady because of some e-mails that may or may not have been legit from a friend of a friend… so I don’t really see how that adds up to Ed being the bad guy.
There are a lot of inconsistencies and a lot of assuming. Statements shouldn’t be made even if they’re 99% true. A lot of assuming here.
The whole show is friggin’ scripted. The producers HAVE to be involved with the whole Ed and Jake return dealio. How else would those guys know where/when filming was taking place. Jake was staying upstairs at the SAME HOTEL as Jillian, for crying out loud. Do you REALLY believe she was surprised to see him? Want proof? Jake shows up supposedly an hour before Wes was to get her to go meet his family. Yet, SHE’S DRESSED AND READY and there is a camera person in her room when the door is knocked upon. She was still wearing same clothes when Wes arrives, and at his family home. What woman in history was ever ready an hour earlier than necessary? And, the camera person? “Um … let’s just be on hand and ready to roll, because, um … you never know who the heck might happen to knock on your door an hour before Wes is SCHEDULED to show up.†Give me a break!
How could the producers cut and paste individual words and phrases like that without it sounding totally choppy and fake? People usually speak in complete sentences, don’t they? And don’t those sentences kind of “flow together” as they’re spoken? I’ll believe it when I see it, but right now, I’m just not buying it.
I think Wes is cut next due to his lack of romance when the cameras are gone (the tasteless “intimacy” problems hinted at in the preview a couple weeks ago). And then I think Wes shows up in Hawaii to propose. That would fit what Jillian says about “the one who was hardest to let go” — she REALLY REALLY liked Wes a lot.
It also fits the storyline TPTB have crafted for Wes through the edit. Right now he’s the bad boy who might have a girlfriend and can’t open up. When he proposes in Hawaii the audience will be freaking out because it looks like Jillian is seriously considering it, and then everyone will cheer when she rejects him again. He’s the heel. We’re supposed to hate him, we’re supposed to be so relieved when Jillian says NO. (And some people will feel sorry for him and believe he really did change and his proposal was sincere, etc.)
This blogger who knows Laurel says that Laurel was NOT dating Brad and NOT dating Wes while their shows were being filmed, but she had dated them both in the past. Here’s his blog:
http://www.diningoutwithrobbalon.com/news.html#kagay
I caught that too – Jake and Ed just happened to know Jillian was in Austin and even knew what hotel and the room number!
I totally agree with the “Real” “Reality Steve” fans who have been reading your commentary religiously for years. Do what you have done to get us to keep coming back week after corny week to get some giggles over a show which we all know isn’t even close to reality. Last night had a lot of ammunition as the home town dates always do, which I wish you had reviewed in the fine fashion we have become acustomed to. Promise me next week you will?
I think Ed’s family refused to participate in any of the hometown date drivel, like Melissa’s family last season, but the producers just decided to put a different spin on it. Rather than turning it into the “what is the family hiding/afraid of?” storyline, they temporarily removed Ed with the job excuse, and he conveniently came back when it was “too late” for Jillian to meet his family. Funny, there was no mention of what the Boss said upon Ed’s change of heart. Wouldn’t it be sort of logical for Jillian to ask Ed if he’s still employed, or ?
IMO, His job was never in jeopardy, but I think his family was smart to stand their ground and avoid those editors’ brutal knives.
They let him leave and come back WAY too easily to believe. Will that be a standing rule now on future seasons? You can choose to leave early on and then come back close to the end, and see what happens? Uh huh.
I do love when you point out to us how the show is scripted and what goes on behind the scenes. I just wish you would do it in addition to giving your synopsis of the episode. I have figured out that the show is not real, but watch because if I’ve seen the show, your synopsis is so much funnier because I know what you are talking about. That is really the only reason I watch the show anymore.
I mean, are we supposed to believe that if Wes really had a girlfriend back home and was doing all he’s edited to be doing more guys than Jake wouldn’t ‘out’ him? I could see them whispering in her ear on the way out the door that she should watch out for him or something, whether it is because they care about her or have sour grapes over Wes being there when they are leaving, but someone would tell her. Also, like you mentioned, and I mentioned in last week’s comments, IF THE SHOW WAS REAL and Wes really said he was there for the wrong reasons, the producers would let Jillian know in order to help her find a partner.
And I don’t know how you didn’t mention it, but somehow, they were all right there in the same place when Ed left and Chris ‘didn’t know Ed left’ wink, wink, but this week, they were supposedly not in the same location with Chris and yet, Chris knew that Ed was back! The producers could at least make an attempt to hide the fact that the show isn’t real!
I love lemon’s theory about Wes coming back at the end!
Almost everything in this entire episode was very obviously heavily scripted. The scenes with Jillian and Jake and then Wes, Jillian, and Jake sitting on the sofa were even edited to “play” just like daytime soap operas. That was one of the most noticeable things to me when watching them. So, when I saw RS mention soap operas in this post I just thought “bingo!”
The things that seemed the most real and authentic to me in this episode were
1)Michael and all of his reactions, and his family. The poor guy — he didn’t have a chance! I felt sorry for him [Of course, I could be wrong and maybe he is just a great actor.] I did feel that if Ed had not come back she would have kept Michael around for another week and dumped only Jesse. But, that doesn’t really matter at this point.
2) Wes’ evasiveness. Sorry, I know he did have a bad edit and was probably also told by the producer to act that way in exchange for getting some promotion of his music. But I felt that his evasiveness and dishonesty were real (another great acting job?). Also noticed that his entire family who met Jillian consisted of females, and I have a feeling that they have him on a pedestal. On the positive side for Wes, though, I’ve never liked him more in this series than when he was up on stage. He seemed comfortable, relaxed, and in his element. Yes, that one song (“Jillian’s song) is pretty bad, but he was a good performer over all, I thought.
I hadn’t heard the rumor about Ed’s girlfriend.
My question is, with all of this fakery going on, how much did Jillian know? Or in any of these shows, how much does the Bachelor/ette know while it is happening? And why in the world would anybody willingly put him/herself in this position?
This is the first time I have ever commented on here….BUT please Steve go back to your weekly recaps…and even if possible do a double recap next week. Last nights show was just plain silly and funny and full of things to comment on and for that matter poke fun at! Your recaps have always made me laugh out loud at my desk on Tuesdays…. Today, sad to say, was a quiet day….though maybe its good so that my coworkers don’t think I am crazy
!
Well, I have been a loyal RS fan for a while now, and I enjoyed your column today. There are a lot more than a few people who still don’t believe this show is scripted. I appreciate your insight and the way you present your position. I love the fact that you are exposing the truth behind this show..which is the reason Chris is annoyed with you..they need people to keep believing their baloney.
OK. So I have been reading this for a few seasons now, and this is my first comment. I agree with many of the people above… I miss the old recaps. I feel like this has become the “RS – I told you so!” show, and it is getting boring. In fact, after listening to the interviews and reading some of the Tweets, I really believe that RS is starting to believe his own press, just as many of the contestants do once the show is over. Anyway, the show is clearly scripted. I get that. But my question is, do the contestants realize/agree to the script, or are they being completely manipulated?
if it’s no big deal for people to be seeing other people while on the show, how is ed the bad guy? also, i have read numerous sources that say ed has a very high level job with microsoft. i have also read jeremy say that is you are smart about the contracts, there are ways to manipulate them so you can have contact with work while you’re filming. i think it is much more plausible that ed worked it into his contract that if he was still there after a certain amount of time, he would need to go back to chicago at some point to deal with work. of course, jillian has been manipulated by the producers with how they scripted that break, but still. i think his work was legitimate. and considering all you need for evidence on this website are e-mails from friends of friends and hearsay, i guess i can say this is truth and if you don’t believe it you are delusional.
I think the only thing that really isn’t “scripted” is who she picks as “the one”. And I really think the bachelor/bachelorette know by this point who it’s going to be, and she tells the producers, and they they use all the “other players” to build some drama for those last weeks. They just have her keep saying “I have no idea what I’m going to do”, every week before the rose ceremony just to keep the illusion of dramatic indecision.
I am new to this site, I’ve only been here a couple of weeks. Most people I know that watch this show understand that it is edited a lot to get you to believe one thing or another for drama and interest. While understanding that each week we only see a few minutes of was hours and hours of raw footage most people still feel like they are getting a fairly decent picture of the people and the situations they are watching. All of my girlfriends see it almost like a live version of a caricature. Not exactly real but close enough. This makes it easy for us, or on here for Steve to mock and make fun of these people. Unless what he is saying in this post is true, especially the claim of the “frankenbite”. How can you mock these people when it’s totally made up? For example a caricature drawing of Pres. Obama will always show him with oversized ears but you know it’s a drawing of him. Now take that same drawing and give him blond hair and white skin and know one will even know who it is a drawing of. You have to watch reality tv with grain of salt but if they take all of the real out it what’s the point of watching at all?
This show gave up on the idea of people finding love a long time ago. It’s track record for people getting married sucks. If they would get away from the trash this show is now and made it about helping these people find love and getting married their ratings would sky rocket!
Now that RS has made me a cynic, I totally could see last night that Jillian was sitting on the couch and waiting for the cues for Jake AND Ed to come to the door of the hotel rooms. It was not a natural lounging around waiting at all and she is not a very good actress. And…wouldn’t she want to talk a little more to Ed before inviting him to the rose ceremony? Now that was totally scripted!
What is bizarre to me is that Jake had said on a previous episode that if he knew one of the other guys had a girlfriend, he would call them out, and yet, he never told Jillian anything. And NOW he knows that Wes has a girlfriend? Poor Jake was manipulated by the producers to instigate all this nonsense, though I think he really believed what he was telling her.
Also, why is Wes getting such as bad edit, considering he made it to the final four? I was under the impression that the final four all got reasonably decent edits. I guess he really rubbed some producer the wrong way. Or maybe the season would have been too boring otherwise.
As for Ed maybe having a girlfriend, I’ve read some posts over at Television Without Pity basically stating the same thing, EXCEPT that it was more casual, and Ed was very upfront with her about the whole thing. It wouldn’t surprise me to find out that the girl was more serious about things than Ed – it happens all the time. So I wouldn’t jump on the Ed-as-bad-guy wagon just yet. Two sides and all that, right? Also, maybe I am misreading something, but did Ed actually tell her he was on the show (while it was filming)? I thought his excuses for leaving were work-related. If that’s the case, how could there be an email exchange about waiting until the “show” is over?
As much manipulation that goes on on this show, I don’t understand why former contestants continue to encourage their friends to apply. Yes, real feelings are involved – the producers are counting on that – but finding out that they’ve been screwing with your head wouldn’t exactly make me jump to recommend it.
To me, the worst part of the obvious scripting was when they showed Jake in his hotel room..and the phone suddenly ringing..and lo and behold, it was Jillian!
Give me a break. Were the cameramen sitting in his room, taping him sitting alone on his bed when the phone suddenly rang?
What a bunch of nonsense. It was like a soap opera with some really cheesy acting. (The crying on the balcony scene, for example).
This was possibly the most scripted episode YET.
I was kinda dissapoineted at Jake ,really Jake crying on the balcony for a girl you just know for a month?
I still think he is a nice guys though,but I thought he was smarter than to fall in the producer`s trap.
Ed having a girlfriend,if this true,he is just disgusting…
This is my first comment, though I have been reading the blog for a while. Slow work day
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“If you don’t believe Wes, and you actually think that he went on this show with a serious girlfriend, knowing she probably would notice the guy is gone for over a month, probably gonna find out the reason for it when she sits down to watch the show, and then realizes what he was on the show for, well then, you are much more gullible than I thought.”
I do believe Wes thought this reality show was cheap publicity. He’s self-absorbed and knows how to say what Jillian wants to hear. I don’t think he is the victim of editing. He did say, “I have Jillian wrapped around my little finger, y’all,” didn’t he? What a jerk.
If he has a girlfriend, and it wouldn’t surprise me if he did, she might be complicit. What I mean is, he convinces her that he’s just acting… doing it to promote his career, and her job is to stay out of the public eye until his stint on the Bachelorette is over. Wes’ family is not going to embarrass him by making any admissions on national tv. Just another possible spin on that situation.
Steve this is GREAT. I knew a lot of this stuff just from reading you for a while now, but the interviews just make everything that much stronger. I could not believe the whole re-telling of grandmas death thing to get some tears going. That’s really disgusting! Anyways I do have some questions for you. Nothing groundbreaking but here they are..
1. Why does it seem that all the people that are on the show are from big cities? I don’t think I’ve really seen too many people from random states/cities. There’s just always a ton of southern people.
2. Same kind of thing…it looks like they only pick rich people. All the hometown dates I have seen through the years, not once have I seen an average or below average house. They are all over the top. Have you noticed this or know why this is?
3. Have you heard the rumor about one of the guys who is currently still on the show is a father? Do you know if it’s true?
4. Has Kiptyn been chosen as the next bachelor already?
5. Do you think Jillian knew Ed was coming back before the segment of them was filmed? Because the whole thing looked really scripted to me, especially how she was just sitting in that living room and all the SUDDEN Ed was there.
6.. Last, do you really think Jake called Tanner on the phone about protecting Jillian?
Dont think Ed’s girlfriend back in chicago is Lindsey. I heard it is Bethany from a very good source.
I like the producer/back story stuff but….I REALLY wanted to hear you talk about Michael’s family…OMG! They need to try decaf. I had no idea there was a CLONE..Two, Two, Tow dorks in one. Please return to your recaps…I know it’s scripted..I watch the show to fully appreciate YOUR comments!
…AND, does every family who ends up having a hometown visit need to have a band? That just doesn’t seem normal! I mean, maybe Guitar Hero, but a full fledged band or dance group?
Interesting editing on Wes. I thought for sure that when he said the line (or something similar), “I came her for my cd” that they just edited/cut the tape at the “but I surprised myself and fell for the girl, too” part. Didn’t realize it was the extensive hatchet job that it was. Crazy.
I don`t think the editing on Wes is quite the crucifixion that alot of ppl think. Afterall, if what RS says is true and its possible to bargain with a producer to get your hands on an iPod for a day, then I`m sure it`s possible to bargain for a few mins of air time in order to peddle your music in exchange for keeping Jilli on the DISoriented Express and to boost ratings! No matter how you look at things, the guys left on the show so far are not much to show for 4 billion years of evolution! What was Michael like, he cried more when Tanner was going last week than he did for himself this week!
steve, if you read my comment last week you would see to turn on the close captioning and look at the upcoming scenes at the end of the show; as i saw last week, you could figure out the final 3.
I’m so glad so many feel the way I do; RS, you’re losing your appeal quickly. I also have been a fan for years because so many of your comments echoed my feelings and made me LOL.
Now even your writing style is beginning to irritate me…asking a question instead of stating a fact! “did I know….”…”Can I prove?”…c’mon
And don’t keep saying you don’t get paid for this and aren’t seeking fame. Baloney! Now you’re selling products with your name all over it? And you get SO much pleasure that Chris H. thinks you’re despicable. At least he shows more personality in his blogs than he ever has in the show….where he’s a darn mechanical robot.
You LOVE trying to bring this show down. And you have done it for me, but unfortunately there are a lot of people out there who will continue watching.
I used to enjoy this show for all its smarminess but now I have no use for it. I used to enjoy you, and now have no use for you. Keep true to yourself, Steve, and not the guy you’ve become since last season. You used to have a gift for making us laugh with good humor, now it’s nothing but viciousness.
Btw, the interview with Wes on the radio, AND the interview with the Producer (or whomever) were both listed on ABC’s message board last night-I read both before I saw the show. So you weren’t even the first with news today.
I think you started out with good intentions, unfortunately, your 15 minutes of fame got to you just like it does to so many Bachelors and Bachelorettes.
Wow..that was alot of double talk Steve to make the point you love Wes and believe he’s not a complete loser/liar.
I’m amazed you just barely mentioned Jake..so did Jake flat out lie or not??? Can’t have it both ways. I believe Jake and not Wes. Wes is a playa…who probably has several girlfriends back in Texas and is just a very poor choice for Jillian if she is serious about finding Mr. right to settle down with and have a family.
I think Ed is a jerk and Jillian is getting what she deserves. Just my opinion, and I am entitled to it, just as everyone else is entitled to their own opinions.
As for you saying Jillian only sees what we see. duh?? She was sitting there when Jake said Wes has a girlfriend and she chose to ignore it. This is the first time I hope a bachelorette picks the wrong person. She brought it on herself..all the good guys are gone, except for Reid, and I hope he goes next, cause I really like him and he can do so much better than Jillian.
Thanks for your updates…but this last one really was nothing new to me. It’s a TV show..”reality” is a stretch..I’ve watched everyone of them from the beginning and will continue to do so.
The best ‘reality’ show starts next week, Big Brother..now that’s the greatest one, imo.
I heard that Kiptyn already signed on to be the next Bachelor..anyone else here anything about this???
I will not watch if Kitpton is the next Bachelor. If it’s Jake, Michael, Reid or Jesse, I will.
Okay, I’ll admit I was a little disappointed you didn’t do a recap of the hometown days but I really do not understand people who leave these long-ass comments complaining about the stuff you write. All I can say, Steve, is you should be flattered that your blog means so much to these people as their days seem to have been ruined by the lack of a proper recap.
ANYWAY…since you didn’t really comment on any of the hometown dates there are a few things I have to say. First of all, my favorite family of all was Michael’s family. Yes, they are all slightly hyperactive but they seemed like they really love being around each other and have fun together. Kiptyn’s family on the other hand…is it just me or did they come across as completely pretentious, uptight, and controlling? Their whole little “test” pairing the wine w/ the lasagna was so ridiculous…then when his mother was talking and said how it’s good Jillian is open to “family involvement” or something like that and said how she thinks it’s good Jillian wants her to be honest and open because she could never lie. Translation: If you marry my son I feel completely entitled to be all up in your business and will pretty much be the mother-in-law from hell.
I actually almost felt bad for Wes at one point…I had the same thought as someone else, why would Jake have not come forward with this sooner? It’s not like he didn’t have the opportunity. It was all so obviously staged.
Well, it’s a funny thing…I read your column earlier today and thought the same thing that I find has been expressed by quite a few people here now. WE MISS REALITY STEVE!!! I could hardly wait to read your old columns – fall on the floor laughing funny! And now??? Um, not so much…today was especially disappointing. My gosh – last night’s show was ripe for the pickin’! You maybe should realize that many of your readers have a modicum of sense and realize it’s not for real. It gets worse all the time – but reading your comments the next day made it worth the pain and agony of watching. Come on Steve…get back to what you did so well. Watch the Bachelorette with us and make us laugh again….
So I’m not the only one annoyed by the column. Used to love this blog–hadn’t checked it for a while. Thought todays read would be hoot–considering last night’s material (Kypton’s mother! Snooping on the hot tub tete a tete! Love..it don’t come EEEEAASSSY!) –but instead I get a lecture. A lecture? Steve, you’ve become your own worse enemy. A media whore. You’ve insinuated yourself into the series. I don’t want to know you’re hanging out with Jeremy. I want you to make fun of Jeremy. DeAnna’s a blinking, blathering (fill in the blank) – not a tee-shirt model! We don’t need anymore media whores. We need funny, funny Steve who used to validate why I’m so amused by the show. Bring that Steve back. PLEEEEAASSSSEEEE!!!!
Just discovered something very interesting. When Jake came to Jillian’s room to “talk” to her, the room was #105 and posted on Jake’s left side of the door. When he went back to the room and Wes answered the door (and I’m assuming this is suppose to be the same room) the room was #505 and posted on Jake’s right side of the door. Oops!!!! Missed some editing there boys!!
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I’m glad to se emost people feel the same way I do. I would rather just read the funny blog of the episode. Why has it become RS’s mission to destroy the credibility of the Bachelor? Did he try out and not make it. Ha ha…J/K. But, really, I’d rather just watch it for fun then read a funny blog not constantly hear how it’s fake. I mean duh…it’s a “reality tv” show.
one more thing..after looking at the photos of Deanna, Holly, Richard, & Natalie I have to think “no wonder they didn’t find love”. They look like a bunch of college party kids.
Hey I’ve had my college fun too but come on how are we supposed to take them serious?
Yeah, Steve, I missed your funny recap this week; the only reason I watch. I couldn’t wait to read about what you had to say about Kipton’s family! Actually, all of them. I wondered, too, about the same thing as queenbee14. All of these families have such fabulous homes. The only one I remember maybe being on the lower end was Jenni’s(Brad)family. And we never saw their house because they all had dinner at her mother’s beauty shop. I love the inside information but do hope you do a recap. I would love to know how much of this editing applies to the Biggest Loser. I can’t believe stupid Helen won.
Hi Steve,
I enjoy your blog and always look forward to the good laugh on Tuesdays. I agree with the other posters, you dont need to continue to blog about the show being fake. If people still believe that reality shows are really based in reality and not scripted, then they are idiots, and exactly what the producers of these shows are hoping will tune in. I know everything about this show is based in reality as much as daytime soaps. And even though most of these seasons where boring, its fun to poke fun at it and laugh about it with friends. Its all pure mindless entertainment. Bring back the old Steve! Looking forward to the next recap!
I like your truthiness. (Not so much the talking down to us like we’re all stupid. You can make fun of people on TV and producers etc., but don’t make fun of your audience. Then your t-shirt sales go down).
Anyway, the only reason I come to your blog is to find out all the truthy gossip. I do want to know the truth. So keep up the good work.
I watch this pathetic show just so I can read your hilarious recap. Now your wasting an entire column telling us the show is scripted. Well no shit, Sherlock. Even Stevie Wonder can see it. Yawn. ZZZZZZZZ.
I meant you’re.
Even though I agree with the others that miss the old Reality Steve, I am DYING to know if Kiptyn is the next Bachelor. Can you confirm that for us RS? I’d also like to know your thoughts on the pick if it’s true. I think he’s even more boring than Jillian.
Oh, and one more thing, Laurel for the next Bachelorette!
Apparently they all have the same interior designer and landscape architect too. I don’t think any of the homes shown really belong to the families. They all seem straight out of the same Home Decorating magazine. I thought that last season too, especially when they went for the whole Sleepless in Seattle thing, with Jason on a houseboat. But I can see why they’d do it, for privacy reasons.
BTW, Happy Canada Day tomorrow to all you Canadian Chicks … who RS will never have the pleasure of dating! LOL
Hey Steve think your great and love your recaps…BUT for all you ladies who were hoping for a bachelorette recap this week, go to television without pity website…..there is a pretty funny recap there!
Steve- don’t let anyone tell you how to run your website. I like it and I think you are a great person.
C’mon Steve, you can’t have it both ways. You’ve become very wishy washy, always contradicting your own “beliefs” depending on who you are bashing or defending. You believe Wes doesn’t have a girlfriend because he says so (and Jeremy vouched for him), yet you so easily believe an email from a friend of Ed’s supposed GF? Plus, you had just said they all had GFs so what is the big deal?
And why wouldn’t Jake call Tanner? He’s another Texas boy and was the one who told Jillian about someone having a GF. Is that why you questioned him calling Tanner (the Wes GF implication) or is it because Tanner’s editing made him look crazy at times? But it is editing, right?
Still love your blog…just tired of nothing but conspiracy theories week after week. Let’s get back to your humor and talk about why none of these guys would ever give Jillian a 2nd glance elsewhere.
I totally agree with you about Wes’ editing – but come on, you have to admit, he is still totally that guy you want your best friend to break up with, because it’s so obvious he just isn’t that into her. Wes seems to bring out Jillian’s insecure “Do you like me, do you like me?” side. Why do so many women fall for that hard-to-get-so-into-himself-assholes? Regardless, shame on the producers for the character assassination, even arrogant bastards don’t deserve that.
Thank so much Jennylynn for the tip about the blog at televisionwithoutpity. It was great…..what Reality Steve’s used to be! Steve………I’ve always loved coming here on Tuesday mornings to read your sarcastic, slanted, sophomoric, and skewed view on the Bachelor/Bachelorette. But as many others have said, you have gotten away from that and it’s too bad. Don’t get me wrong….I love knowing the winner and stuff before the end (I’m one of those people that read the end of the book first……I do NOT like surprises), but you don’t really even give out specifics, just hints and veiled hints. I too wish you would write the way you did in the beginning. I used to almost fall out of my chair laughing every Tuesday morning. I haven’t watched the show at all this season. After last year’s fiasco, I decided enough was enough. But I do still go to the boards and read what people have to say about the show and would love reading your blog if it goes back to the “way it was”.
I agree with the other posters, that I love old RS and want him back. Which is really a compliment…we love how funny you are, know how stupid the show really is, and can’t wait for your recaps.
I am TOTALLY on the Laurel for Bachelorette band wagon.
(btw I realize I cant spell…its part of my charm)
Hope this links works.
All I can say is WOW and Yes, Jake did NOT lie about Wes.
Jake ’swears to God’ and Wes is in love with another:
All you Wes naive fans, lol..read it and weep. Rock on Jake..hope you are the next Bachelor!
http://www.delainadixon.com/tvdivagal.html
ITA with this post. I also like knowing the truth and the information Steve has. I wonder though if Steve has lost some of his desire to write like he used to write due to his new friends. I wouldn’t think he’d be comfortable poking fun at Deanna now even if warranted since she is modeling his tshirts and did the interview for him. And she is only one example. Maybe mixing business with pleasure really doesn’t work – just a thought.
I thought I was crazy but you saw the same thing. Glad to see this.
you are awesome. keep giving the dirt.
Well, as far any of these people on these reality show having any right to sue anyone, it’s ridiculous. The all know exactly what they are getting themselves into and will be scrutinzed and picked apart..goes with it..they are getting paid, so they shouldn’t act all innocent and ticked about anything. They know it’s ’scripted’ before they join. All of them want their 15 minutes of fame, and some of the nicer contestants hope they do really find love and happiness, but not all of them.
OK does anyone really care that he has or had a girlfriend? I am from Texas and just want everyone to know not ALL Texans talk like that. Please did anyone hear his sister’s have such a twang when they spoke? Did he practice that? Another thing I am so sick of is these men getting eliminated and then crying. I hear what you said about that Steve but if these guys are that gullible anyway it is a good thing they are gone. I pretty much record the show and then just watch about 15 minutes of it. I like Jillian but there is really nothing there this season that keeps me waiting til Monday’s. I really wish they had the drunk guy that falls on his face a few times. THAT is good television. Who was that girl who fell of her stool during the meet and greet lol
RS ~ I hope you’re not lettin some of these comments get to you…like people tryin to tell you to “go back to bein your old self”. I didn’t come to your site until Jason’s season and the only reason I keep comin is for the dirt. Sure, I enjoy the funny recaps but for some of these people who are at work on Tues. mornings, rolling on the floor laughing, getting the attention of their co-workers…well all I can say is “get to work” and “get a life.” Yes, I think RS can be funny makin fun of the people on the show…but a little smile is really all he gets from me. Doesn’t necessarily deserve a laughing out loud sorta reaction.
I may be wrong on this but I would assume that realitysteve.com gets more hits NOW than he did THEN. Am I right, Steve? PLEASE keep up the good work! This was one of my favorite Bachelorette recaps.
RS, Before someone got to her and shut her up Megan did another interview with a blog called “RealityBlurred”. She got really intense and laid out what the producers did to her and the other girls on the last season of The Bachelor to get them to deliver what they wanted. Brings up a lot of questions about who got what after the last season. Seems like some of the girls got smart and delivered on cue…lasted through to the final four and got what they wanted. Looks like the guys in the Bachelorette this season are doing the same thing. Deliver for the producers and the producers will deliver for you. Great point about the upscale nature of the bachelorettes and their homes. If you do some background work you’ll find there are a lot of pageant girls who participate. The homes are the real homes of the families for the most part, however the show goes in ahead of time and helps the family to “present their home in the best possible way for television.” Upscale girls have the careers, time, and desire for exposure that make them perfect contestants on the show. They have been part of the cool girl group most of their lives which gives them the inflated egos, extremely self-centered nature, and makes them feel they are “natural” winners in the competition and therefore more easily coerced by a devious producer – or – smart enough to negotiate for what they want to give the producers exactly what the producers want. All of the feigned emotions are already rehearsed in these girls along with the facial expressions, wardrobes, and tears on cue. That’s why real girls like Megan are eliminated early. Their naivite’ quickly catches up with them and they are overwhelmed by the process. As long as it makes interesting TV that’s really all the production company cares about. Like a jury, careful selection of the contestants upfront delivers the desired result. I would love to see all of the questions the contestants have to answer during the entire selection process before they are chosen. That would tell you so much about the process.
Anybody can think whatever they want. I worked for a TV News show for a while and if the news can be edited and manipulated I dont doubt for a second that a show like this can be too. The bottom line is, if someone is stupid enough to believe what they see, then let them. Who cares? But I do read your column religiously every tuesday because I find it funny, fresh and sarcastic. I love your perspective on things. I feel like you take the words out of my mouth every week. So please go back to what you do best: entertaining us.
I’m a long time reader of this blog, and agree with most of these posts. it does seem that long time “fans” are disappointed of late, and newbies are not…simply cuz they don’t know what the blog was like before “the fame”.
For me, these two paraphrased comments sum it up:
* I’d rather have Steve make fun of Jeremy, Deanna et al, than to hang out with them
* Is Steve selling any merchandise?
[sorry for NOT crediting the proper authors]
Im sure glad you are blowing the lid off again this year on the bachelorette. ITs really too bad that they cant offer us a real reality show without any scripting but hey its what people want. I grew up at a time that quality shows were around, such as little house on the prairie, the waltons, etc.. great family shows which we dont have anymore. One of these years perhaps we will have those shows again. Just wanted to let you know I still enjoy reading what you have to say. I feel bad for wes too, Im sure he is a great guy…
Wow….first ever sale in “Reality Steve” merchandise!!!! Don’t insult our intelligence..you have to put them on sale so that so somebody will buy them!!
Steve, I have to agree with the others- what has happened to your wonderful witty funny blogs that I used to enjoy so much? Now it just seems your sole purpose on here to try to one-up the B’ette producers and Chris Harrison. But yet then in your interview w/ Deanna, Jeremy and ditsy Holly, you totally kiss Chris’ butt and say “Chris, please let me interview you.” I think all the infamous publicity you received last season with the Jason debacle has gone to your head. Now it’s all about you being friends with Jeremy and Deanna and Holly and being a part of the “clique”. That interview was so silly bye the way, that the last 30 mins shouldn’t have even been aired. You seem to like to show off that you are “friends” with these people (2 of whom you’ve never even met in person).
As far as Jake and Wes, I don’t know what to say. I don’t think Wes is as innocent as you portray him to be. Sure he probably got some bad editing, but I still think he’s pond scum. Jake seemed like an honest, straight-forward guy so why would he tell lies about Wes? I imagine he got paid for coming back last week, but I don’t think he has it in him to outwardly lie about Wes. Plus there’s a new article over on EW.com with jake again asserting that Wes told him several times he still had a gf Laurel and that “Jillian wasn’t the girl for him.” http://www.eonline.com/uberblog/watch_with_kristin/b132261_bachelorette_jake_spills_more_dirt_on.html.
There’s just way too much info in there for me to think Jake is lying. Jake seems like too honest of a person to continue to lie to the media if what he is saying about Wes was made up. Even if let’s say Wes purposely fed him this info for big ratings, I still believe Wes told Jake this info. My only question is why Jake waited until last week to tell Jillian if he knew about it all along. He could have just pulled her aside when he got axed at the rose ceremony and told her. Now in that case I think the producers told him to hold his “juicy information” in order this week in order to make a bigger impact, not to mention boost the ratings. Heck, I enjoyed it. I love drama!
Here’s that article on Jake, it didn’t seem to work on the last post.
http://www.eonline.com/uberblog/watch_with_kristin/b132261_bachelorette_jake_spills_more_dirt_on.html
Ya know that’s funny. I don’t understand why the continue to have 20 somethings on this show. For the most part they still want to party and not get married. I know this is not all 20 somethings, but alot of them. I think they should have people in their early and mid 30’s instead ALONG with contestants in the SAME age range. I mean Jillian being 29 should have had all 28+ year olds on her show to choose from. I know they might have been contestants for Melissa since it was a quick switch-over, but still. Let’s get contestants on how are more ready for marriage.
Kristin…I think late 30’s for the Bachlorette and she picks from guys in their 40’s…that would be alot of fun and maybe they would be seriously looking for love or a mate. I’m sick of the young ones all the time, too. Yes, I’m older, but that’s not the reason. It’s as you stated, they just want to party and make out, bascially and get paid for it..not really looking for love or commitments. jmo
Watching Jake in his hotel room, calling Tanner on the phone, etc. I had the sudden feeling I was watching a low budget, poorly acted soap opera. It all seems so scripted now…so acted out, maybe because I’ve been reading Reality Steve for awhile. It wouldn’t surprise me at all if Melissa, Jason, and Molly had been in on all the drama at the end of their season – acting it all out – with Melissa getting America’s sympathy, attention, and future career out of it (as well as $$), set to go back to her boyfriend Tye when enough time had passed. Seems like ABC is hiring actors for this show these days. Was it like that at the beginning? Is it just Reality Steve sinking into my brain lately?
Patti.. I agree with you. I think that would make it much more interesting to watch. People in their mid to late 30’s are ACTUALLY looking to get married. I know when I was 26, I was no where looking to get married. Now that I’m in my mid 30’s, things are much different. Producers probably think men in their late 30’s, 40’s wouldn’t be “attractive enough.” (Meaning the stereotypical washboard abs 20-something year old they always cast). But that’s not true, sure some men in their late 30’s, 40’s have receding hairlines and a little gray hair (some) but that’s just the way it is. There are tons of gorgeous late 30’s, 40’s guys out there I’m sure! I’m sure they could at least find 25 of them!!! I know I would watch!
Tennisany1… it does seem to be getting alot worse lately I feel too. I don’t remember Trista’s season being so contrived. I know they want to add drama for ratings… but what about just showing 2 people fall in love (or like). Geez this season, I don’t think we’ve heard one single guy (except Michael) say in his confessional that he actually “has strong feelings” for Jillian. I think that’s why I’m not really rooting for any particular guy right now b/c I don’t even know how they feel about Jillian. There’s no connection with them. They’re like a bunch of strangers. I WANT to know what they are thinking. Maybe we’ll get more of that in the next couple of weeks. I mean even slimely Wes who Jillian said she spent so much time w/ in the house doesn’t have a confessional saying “I really like talking to her and spending time with her.. ” Oh well. Watch carefully, have we seen any confessional with Kiptyn, Reid or Ed saying how much they like her? I know definitely not with Kiptyn. It can be implied w/ Ed’s return (which was so contrived and poorly done in my opinion.)
Wow. The next thing you’re going to tell me is that Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny aren’t real either.
I was hoping to hear your take on the families, especially Kiptyn’s uptight one, but I guess I’ll have to look elsewhere. I hope Kiptyn’s family watched this episode and saw that they are the reason why he’s single.
you probably knew this already, but I was reading Jeremy’s twitter page, and it said something about the wes hayden band, so I googled it, and this is what came up http://weshayden.com/index.html if I’m not hallucinating, i believe that’s the same Wes that’s gonna get kicked out tonight on the bachelorette.
Wondering if ya still feel bad for Wes and that he got a bad edit after tonight’s show? Did not look like many editing tricks on some of the things he said!!!
Hey Steve, awaiting your next recap of The Bachelorette. Do you still think the producers messed with Wes’ words? I thought he was gonna keep up with his charade but yet he outed himself as soon as he got in the limo – WOW!
I don’t know about anyone else, but I would never buy a CD of his even if I LIKED Country music. That song of his makes me prefer nails on a chalkboard!
It will be interesting to hear Wes’ comments about his conversation in the limo ride home. However, he was throwing back the drinks – they may not have had to edit much of that…
And what is up with the comment at the rose ceremony, “I’m gonna go home & have lots of sex” or whatever it was he said? It seemed like a sketchy edit, but where did they get the material for that slice? Like I said, I can’t wait fir his comments…
All I have to say is.. I think Wes had a mission and it was accomplished. He could have dressed a little better(I mean, jeans and a jacket are ok w/ me, but w/ holes, etc on a date?) I dont think that is cool. I cant believe Jullian fell for such a guy .. I dont know… why do women fall for bad boys? When I first saw him at the opening, I knew he was a player.. seriously.
Oh well, I have to remember haha, this is a “REAL” tv show haha. But, whatever, I enjoy the show!
@luvthebeach
Santa Claus and Eastern Bunny arent real! Boo hoo! lol
Oops Easter
@luvthebeach
lol I agree.. poor kipton.. mom is the reason for sure! Honestly, let the boy grow up. How old is he?
FIRST OFF… for those who don’t believe the show is edited or doesn’t contain scripted scenes, please watch this past week’s episode and note ther begining of Jillian’s date with Ed. The left side of her shorts are soaking wet when they “greet” each other for the first time. SURPRISE, that’s the side of her shorts she soaks “later” in the date when her and Ed are getting it on in the fountain.
This show is clearly edited. I don’t get how someone can say Wes didn’t get poned. He Maybe it’s because I know people who have been on reality shows, but I thought it was common knowledge that they could edit you to make you look pretty much however they want.
I mean, they can get people to buy most anything. Imagine if they said Reid was racist. If they get footage of three people talking and laughing with Reid then show a shot of silence, and then get 2 of those people to say that Reid was telling a racist joke…we’d believe it! They can completely fabricate things – not only take off the beginning on your sentance to alter it or splice your together words. I imagine Wes said “It’s not like I’m here just for publicity, if that’s the case I’d be all… I’ve made it 6 shows, I sang my song…etc”
Anyone who doesn’t think they butcher this is an idiot. Do I think Wes is a great guy? No! However, everyone gets edited.
The other option is that he went on the show to ACT like a jerk behind her back in trade for the publicity.
Does anyone else get the feeling that Ed is reading cue cards when he’s talking to Jillian?
@cubbieblue Kristin
I want to personally retract all the rude things I posted in the first paragraph of this post. I wrote them in haste on a very bad night I had and it wasn’t fair to reality steve who has always been a nice person to me and I always enjoy his columns. I would delete it myself, but there is no delete or edit button on here. SORRY REALITY STEVE!!!
I want to personally retract all the rude things I posted in the first paragraph of this post. I wrote them in haste on a very bad night I had and it wasn’t fair to reality steve who has always been a nice person to me and I always enjoy his columns. I would delete it myself, but there is no delete or edit button on here. SORRY REALITY STEVE!!!
I wish someone had told her Europeans don’t go around in shorts, especially short shorts. I guess Canadians are as unsavvy as Americans with overseas fashion etiquette. Spain is also a little more conservative than other neighboring countries.
I’ve never doubted it was all for the sake of drama, but the reality here is that people like to see other people bahaving badly and making themselves look foolish. It’s human nature. We like to think there is some girl out there who makes worse decisions with men than we do. Who cares if it’s real or not? I don’t know these people personally, so to me it doesn’t matter if they’re actors or real people. We all watch sitcoms and tv dramas…why is this any different? I dont have a vested interest in Jillian Harris’ happiness. How can I? I don’t know her.
And for me, personally, I’m watching this season because I think Reid is cute. That’s it. I like to look at him, so I tune in. I’m a girl, what can I say?