Reality TV, that beautiful disaster, so often ridiculed for simply providing a beacon of hope to washed up talent and any other drug addicted, disorder afflicted or otherwise odd screwball by turning their relative misfortunes into some intense programming, scored big tonight. VH1, the network famously known as MTV’s mature older brother, which now spearheads this new age television, kicked off the much anticipated series finale of Tough Love Couples, and it delivered. Lucky for you, they love to replay episodes ad nauseam, giving ample opportunity to those who missed the magic.
There are several reasons why reality programming is met with such scorn, and all are rather shallow, I believe. Their approach is non-traditional. For example, "real" working actors are shunned in favor of those who have fallen from grace, which causes jealousy and resentment among professional thespians. It all stems from the fact that the business has found a way to entertain the masses without forking out tons of cash. With that said, let’s talk about the show.
For the most part, reality shows are fueled by situations, as opposed to star power. We are rarely blown away by an individual’s performance, as in sitcoms or crime shows, yet, every now and then, a shooting star is born. True to form, they burn hard and fast, before disappearing into the night. Tough Love‘s stellar contribution is named Steve Ward, a self-proclaimed relationship expert who is assisted by his own foremost authority on the sexuality of women, his mother — who, incidentally, might be called a M.I.L.F. in some less refined circles.
Sporting chubby cheeks and a million dollar smile, this wolf in sheep’s clothing stood proud on this night, and watched the results of his diabolical boot camp, which was set up to strengthen the relationships of six random couples by forcing them to survive his attempts to sabotage them. It's all for their own good, of course. [wink]
The stage was set in the style of a formal ceremony. Here, the participants had reached an ultimatum, after weeks of torment by Mr. Ward, in the form of challenges, ranging from a sex shop visit (designed to expose shortcomings in the bedroom) to a phony interrogation that was obviously staged well enough to squeeze out full confessions about fidelity, bringing destruction to one relationship and an early exit from camp. (I know, honesty is the best policy, but some things are better left unsaid... for the greater good.) So, under his sinister watch, each of the surviving couples had to decide if they were getting engaged or splitting up for good. [insert evil laugh]
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Article comments
1 - motherbug
LOVED the show and all the LOVE with all of the couples.
I wish them all the best!
Is Simone a model? Have we seen her somewhere before. They are a beautiful couple,and I see 3 more kids for them to add to their beautiful family.
Mario and Christina. There is nothing like Young Love to melt your heart, no matter how old it is!!!!!
Love them! All the best to both of you- always and forever.
If they were the Jersey Shore, I would watch.