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Reality TV News - May 2003

Bravo network to repeat NBC's 'Fame' on Friday evenings
May 31, 2003
NBC has announced that beginning this weekend, "Fame," NBC's new critically acclaimed talent-reality show, will become part of Bravo's weekly lineup of arts and entertainment programming.
'The Amazing Race 4' premiere draws best premiere ratings since 1st 'Race,' draws just under 10 million viewers
May 30, 2003
The final Nielsen ratings for May 29th are in, and CBS had an "amazing" Thursday, winning the night in viewers, households, adults 25-54 and adults 18-49 as the start of "The Amazing Race 4" posted its highest rated and most watched premiere episode since the series' inaugural race.
NBC's 'Fame' reveals details of 'Fastlane To Fame' prize package
May 29, 2003
Over the past several weeks, world-renowned actor/director/choreographer Debbie Allen has been traveling the country looking for the best of the best on behalf of NBC’s new reality series “Fame.” Last night, Shannon Bex, from Lake Oswego, Oregon, Alex Boyd from McLean, Virginia and Garry Adams from Merrick, New York moved on in the competition. The series, which is hosted by multi-talented ‘N SYNC star Joey Fatone, features 24 semi-finalists chosen by Allen from four open cattle calls featuring thousands of hopefuls.
CBS alleged to have pulled the plug on Jenna Morasca PETA fur bikini campaign
May 29, 2003
E! Online reports that PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) is upset that CBS has nixed PETA's plans for "Survivor: The Amazon" winner Jenna Morasca to appear in a new anti-fur campaign. The 21-year-old swimsuit model, who took home the million-dollar jackpot earlier this month, had agreed to slip into a fake fur bikini (think Raquel Welch in 1966's One Million Years B.C.) for a PETA print ad. According to a PETA spokesperson, everything was good to go, until CBS execs pulled out the rug at the 11th hour. "They initially gave us the green light on doing the ad then came back and said that it could not mention the word Survivor--the title of the show--or the word 'survive,'" says PETA spokesman Michael McGraw. "We had hope to make mention, in the caption, of her Survivor notoriety."
Ratings: NBC's 'Fame' premiere wins timeslots, draws more total viewers last summer's 'American Idol' premiere
May 29, 2003
NBC reports that the network's new talent-reality series “Fame” got off to a sizzling start last night, winning its 8-10 p.m. ET slot by a commanding 45 percent margin among adults 18-49 and delivering NBC’s highest rating in the time period since Dec. 11.
Double-size 'Dog Eat Dog' premiere wins Adults 18-49 ratings, grew stronger as the evening passed
May 29, 2003
NBC has announced that “Dog Eat Dog” returned to the NBC schedule on Tuesday evening with strong slot-winning results and a solid increase in 18-49 rating with each successive half-hour through the 8-10PM. ET block.
Carnie Wilson, JoJo & Johnny Wright named as celebrity judges for NBC's 'Fame'
May 29, 2003
NBC has announced that Carnie Wilson, JoJo and Johnny Wright have been named as celebrity judges for “Fame,” NBC’s ultimate talent-search competition series.
'Bachelor' couple Andrew Firestone and Jen Schefft attend Indy 500 together
May 28, 2003
Finally, a couple from a dating show that does things together in public after the show is over. The Boston Herald 'Inside Track' reports that Andrew Firestone, star of ABC's The Bachelor, and his chosen partner Jen Schefft attended the Indianapolis 500 together over Memorial Day weekend. According to the story, it was the first time Firestone, whose family helped pioneer auto racing, had ever attended the race.
CBS' new 'Cupid' relationship reality series to premiere Wednesday, July 9th
May 27, 2003
CBS has annoucned that "Cupid", a new relationship reality series from “American Idol’s” Simon Cowell, will premiere Wednesday, July 9th at 10PM ET.
CBS' 'Big Brother 4' to premiere Tuesday, July 8th
May 27, 2003
CBS has announced that "Big Brother 4" will premiere on Tuesday, July 8 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT) with the first of its three weekly broadcasts.
Bravo Canada to air 'Strip Search' Canadian male stripper search
May 27, 2003
Ah, what a day it's been for the formerly highbrow Bravo cable channel. First they announce their pathetic "let's trick a gay guy into falling for a straight guy" new reality series, and now we learn that Bravo's Canadian channel is finally doing what Canadians have been clamoring for -- giving them an opportunity to tryout for their own reality television program.
NBC already filming a second "bachelorette" edition of 'For Love Or Money'
May 27, 2003
Variety reports that NBC has ordered a second edition of its new upcoming "For Love Or Money" reality show -- before the show has even aired its first episode.
'American Idol' voting overtaxed U.S. phone systems
May 27, 2003
The parallels with Florida 2000 continue to pile up regarding the American Idol finale vote. Now it's disenfranchisement.
Bravo to air 'Boy Meets Boy' gay 'Bachelor'-like reality series
May 27, 2003
The Hollywood Reporter reports that NBC-owned Bravo will air American television's first primetime gay-themed reality dating series this summer.
Did misdials cost Clay Aiken the title on 'American Idol'?
May 27, 2003
The American Idol finale voting saga reminds us more of the 2000 Florida presidential election fiasco every day. In an uncanny imitation of the "hanging chad" controversy that forced the Bush-Gore Florida vote count to the U.S. Supreme Court twice, the Associated Press reports that more people may have tried to vote for runner-up Clay Aiken than for winner Ruben Studdard ... but misdialed the number, so their votes weren't included in the final count.
'American Idol' Gay Idol Journal - "The Grand Finale Edition"
May 27, 2003
Larry Johnson, a comedy writer currently working for Disney TV, has posted the latest installment of his weekly 'American Idol' Gay Idol Journal diva rant, an exclusive to the RealityTVWorld American Idol message boards.
'American Idol's Clay Aiken & Ruben Studdard appear on NBC's 'Today' show
May 26, 2003
The Associated Press reports that "American Idol" winner Ruben Studdard and runner-up Clay Aiken took the "Today" show by storm on Monday morning, wowing a crowd of screaming fans who braved a downpour for a glimpse of their favorites. "It's like a monsoon. Poor Clay is worried about his hair," the always perky Katie Couric joked as she tousled Aiken's slightly less spikier than usual 'do.
Roseanne's new ABC reality show to begin airing in late July 2003
May 26, 2003
Reuters reports that comedian Roseanne Barr's previously announced new 13-episode ABC reality show finally has an airdate. The prime time show, which was first announced back in October 2002, still does not have a title yet but will begin airing in late July and follow Roseanne at home and work as she puts together a cooking show. The cooking series actually will be shown on cable network ABC Family.
NBC's 'Second Chance: America’s Most Talented Senior' to premiere June 1st
May 26, 2003
Well, apparently NBC has finally realized how BAD an idea their new “Second Chance: America’s Most Talented Senior" reality series was, as despite previously being announced as "new reality series," "Second Chance" is now being promoted as a "one hour special." The special, featuring celebrity judges Shirley Jones (“The Partridge Family”), Barry Williams (“The Brady Bunch”) and Estelle Harris (“Seinfeld”) and will air on Sunday, June 1 (8-9 p.m. ET).
'American Idol' winner Ruben Studdard and runner-up Clay Aiken sign with BMG
May 25, 2003
According to People Magazine (link for subscribers only), American Idol winner Ruben Studdard has been signed to music industry legend Clive Davis' J Records, part of the Bertelsmann Music Group ("BMG"). Ruben will be spending Memorial Day weekend working on his new CD, which, according to Clive Davis, will combine pop, R&B and hip-hop-influences, and may include a collaboration with rapper Fat Joe.
'American Idol' vote count controversy continues
May 25, 2003
We thought we were kidding when we suggested that Fox use Jimmy Carter to oversee the next American Idol elections. Now, as Fox changes its story daily, it's actually starting to look like a good idea.
Did Clay Aiken know 'American Idol' winner in advance?
May 23, 2003
Did he or didn't he?
'Bachelor' couple Andrew Firestone and Jen Schefft discuss having children
May 23, 2003
We have to give The Bachelor's Jen Schefft credit for optimism. Even though none of the couples from the previous editions of reality dating shows have ended up getting married so far, the Associated Press reports that Jen and her Bachelor mate, Andrew Firestone, discussed having children in an interview that will appear in the June 2 issue of US Weekly.
'American Idol' host Ryan Seacrest to host new daytime show
May 22, 2003
Be honest ... do you tune into American Idol to see Clay, Ruben, Kelly, Frenchie, Simon ... or to see host Ryan Seacrest? In an apparent new update on a story that we first reported on a couple of months back, Fox apparently hopes that some people really do tune in to see Ryan. E! Online reports that Fox's Twentieth Television production arm has cast Ryan in a new daytime show that will begin airing in January 2004.
Reality shows take 5 of top 10 rating slots in U.S. 2002-03 season
May 22, 2003
They may be disappearing from the fall schedules, but reality shows are still atop the ratings. According to the Associated Press, five of the top 10 shows during the 2002-03 TV season were reality shows.
'Bachelor' winner Helene Eksterowicz honored by high school
May 22, 2003
This is how fame goes in reality TV: one day, all of America wants to see you -- the next day, you're lucky to be speaking at your former high school. The Associated Press reports that former Bachelor winner (if you could call ending up with the self-absorbed Aaron Buerge "winning") Helene Eksterowicz was honored by her former high school in Gloucester City, N.J. , on Monday for "bringing honor to her hometown."
CBS announces 'Cupid' suitor auditions in New York, Miami, and LA
May 22, 2003
"Cupid" is CBS new upcoming relationship reality show featuring a single woman looking for love. The Cupid Girl, Lisa, and her two friends, will scour the country, auditioning eligible bachelors, each of whom will have 30 seconds to impress them enough to warrant a date. Want to try for a date with Lisa? CBS has announced upcoming suitor audition information for New York, Miami, and Los Angeles. Full information follows below.
FOX correction: Ruben Studdard won 'American Idol' by about 130,000 votes, not by 1,335 or 13,000
May 22, 2003
First host Ryan Seacrest said over 24,000,000 votes were cast and Ruben Studdard defeated Clay Aiken by only 13,000 votes. Then later in the broadcast he apparently tried to correct himself and say Ruben actually won by 1.335 votes with 50.28% of the vote. At this point the more analytical viewers at home probably did the 50.28% of 24,000,000 math themselves and figured out that would actually come up to a difference of about 130,000 votes.
Ratings: 'American Idol' finale averages 33+ million viewers, tops 40+ million at the end
May 22, 2003
Zap2It.com reports that the 2002-03 May Sweeps period ended Wednesday night on a very high note for FOX, as the finale of "American Idol" blew away its competition. The first hour of "Idol," featuring the mother of all recapping and foot-dragging, averaged 16.9/27 at 8PM. At 9PM, "American Idol" grew to a 20.3/29, with nearly 40 million people watching the final half-hour as Ruben Studdard was named the winner over Clay Aiken.
Ruben Studdard crowned 'American Idol,' but Clay Aiken still tops the Amazon CD Sales List
May 22, 2003
Ruben Studdard might have been crowned the winner during last evening's "American Idol" season finale, but so far Clay Aiken is proving to be the champion in the category that the show promoters really care about -- record sales.
Ruben Studdard becomes second 'American Idol' winner by razor-thin margin
May 22, 2003
The votes are in for the second installment of American Idol, and American has made its choice. By only 1,350 votes out of over 24 million votes cast, Ruben Studdard, the plus-sized "teddy bear of love," defeated Dixie crooner Clay Aiken to win the second American Idol competition.
ABC's next 'Celebrity Mole' filming in Mexico?
May 21, 2003
OK, so some other people claimed 'Survivor 7' would take place in Mexico, and it turned out they were wrong. However, RealityTVWorld.com has received an exclusive tip that one reality show is currently taking place in Mexico: the next edition of ABC's Celebrity Mole.
Ratings: Penultimate episode of 'American Idol 2' draws over 27 million viewers
May 21, 2003
Mediaweek reports that as America gears up for the season finale, last night's installment of Fox's "American Idol" scored a whopping 16.9/25 from 8-9 p.m. -- 69 percent above the season finale of CBS's JAG (10.0/15) and the program's best ratings of the season. More than 27 million viewers tuned in to watch Clay and Ruben sing their final songs.
NBC's new 'Last Comic Standing' comedy search to premiere Tuesday, June 10th
May 21, 2003
NBC has announced that its new reality comedy competition, “Last Comic Standing: The Search for the Funniest Person in America," will premiere Tuesday, June 10th at 9PM ET. As we previously reported, repeat airings of the summer series will also air on the Comedy Central cable network.
'Meet My Folks' to return to the NBC lineup starting Monday June 9th
May 21, 2003
NBC has announced that it's "Meet My Folks" hit relationship show will return with new episodes starting on Monday, June 9th at 10PM ET, with this season including two special two-part episodes.
BoDog Casino posts 'The Amazing Race 4' odds, sets favorites
May 21, 2003
BoDog might have had to suspend it's "Survivor The Amazon" wagering after it caught CBS employees who were apparently in the know betting on the Survivor finalists, but apparently that hasn't stopped them from taking bets on another CBS-produced reality show -- "The Amazing Race 4."
Second season of 'Dog Eat Dog' to premiere on May 27th
May 21, 2003
NBC has announced that it will launch the second season of “Dog Eat Dog” -- one of last year's biggest summer hits -- with special back to back episodes on Tuesday, May 27 (8-10 p.m. ET). Host Brooke Burns (“Baywatch”) will return for the second season.
'The Amazing Race 4' to premiere with 90 minute special on May 29th
May 21, 2003
CBS has announced that the twelve teams of "The Amazing Race 4" will start their race of a lifetime quest for $1 million with a special 90 minute episode of "The Amazing Race 4," airing on Thursday, May 29th (8:00-9:30 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Phil Keoghan once again returns as host of the series.
Coming soon: 'Fear Factor: The Video Games'
May 20, 2003
Can't stomach eating any of those nasty things required of real "Fear Factor" contestants? Well then how about a virtual one then? NBC Enterprises and Endemol USA have announced that they are teaming up with ARUSH Entertainment and Playinteractive, LLP to create, market and distribute interactive video games based on the hit NBC series Fear Factor™. Tentatively titled Fear Factor: Unleashed, the games are targeted to be in stores in 2004. Joy Tashjian Marketing Group helped broker the deal.
‘NSYNC's Joey Fatone to host NBC's 'Fame' talent search, series to premiere May 28th
May 20, 2003
NBC has announced that recording artist and pop superstar Joey Fatone of ‘NSYNC has been named host of “Fame,” NBC’s ultimate talent search competition series featuring Emmy Award-winner Debbie Allen who attempts to find multi-talented performers from across the country. The series will premiere on Wednesday, May 28 (8-10 p.m. ET) and continue on Wednesdays (8-9 p.m. ET)
NBC's 'For Love Or Money' to premiere Monday, June 2th, Jordan Murphy to host
May 20, 2003
NBC has announced that it will premiere “For Love or Money,” a new and unscripted drama series in which 15 beautiful women compete for one lucky man, on Monday, June 2. The special two-hour premiere will air 9-11 p.m. ET, with the series airing in its regular time slot -- 9-10 p.m. ET -- beginning Monday, June 9.
'Real World: Seattle' houseguest Rebecca Lord joins band with Keanu Reeves
May 20, 2003
Who says that reality TV stars are allotted only 15 minutes of fame? Kimberly Potts of E! Online reports that MTV's Real World: Seattle houseguest Rebecca Lord, a Virginia native who was an aspiring 19-year-old singer during that show, is now fronting a group named "becky." The bass player in becky is none other than Hollywood matinee idol (and star of The Matrix trilogy) Keanu Reeves.
FOX and AOL to kick off 'Paradise Hotel Sweepstakes' during 'American Idol' finale
May 20, 2003
Fox Broadcasting Company and America Online will kick off the "Paradise Hotel Sweepstakes" during Part One of the "American Idol 2" finale, which airs Tuesday, May 20 (8:00-9:00 PM Live ET/PT) on FOX. AOL subscribers can win the chance to audition for "Paradise Hotel" daily beginning Tuesday, May 20 through Thursday, May 29. Each Sweepstakes is an opportunity, exclusive to AOL subscribers meeting eligibility criteria, for viewers to become participants on "Paradise Hotel" which premieres Monday, June 16 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX.
Ratings: 'Bachelor 3' series finale averages over 15 million viewers
May 20, 2003
Despite other media reports that the ratings for the season finale of ABC's "The Bachelor" were a relative disappointment, ABC reports that the show drew an average audience of 15.0 million viewers during its 2- hour telecast, with 17.5 million viewers tuning in to the final half-hour (10:30-11:00 p.m.) of the program to watch Andrew Firestone propose to Chicago resident Jennifer Schefft.
Clay Aiken CD ranked #1 in Amazon CD Sales Rank, Ruben Studdard at #40 and climbing
May 20, 2003
Although Clay Aiken and Ruben Studdard are still battling for the title of the next "American Idol," that hasn't stopped them from already beginning a record sales competition.
Locals dish dirt on Paris Hilton & Nicole Richie's FOX 'The Simple Life' production
May 19, 2003
It sounds like such an easy thing to do: take two pampered, spoiled, beautiful young women to rural America and film them living "The Simple Life." However, as Fox and Bunim-Murray Productions are learning, there is nothing simple about it ... and keeping it a secret isn't simple either. RealityTVWorld.com has been told some exclusive details of events during filming of the upcoming Fox reality TV show The Simple Life, starring the socialite team of 22-year-old hotel heiress Paris Hilton and 21-year-old music heiress Nicole RIchie.
Fox gets clearance to broadcast 'American Idol' finale
May 19, 2003
Looks like we'll get to see who wins between Ruben Studdard and Clay Aiken after all.
Ohio native Jen Schefft chosen as Andrew Firestone's mate on 'The Bachelor'
May 19, 2003
Reality TV show contestants may be old hat in many places in America, but at least one city is still excited about a hometown winner. On the season finale of The Bachelor, wine heir Andrew Firestone proposed to 26-year-old Jen Schefft from Mentor, Ohio. As noted in these stories from WTAE-TV Pittsburgh and WEWS-TV Cleveland, Mentor seems very proud that a hometown girl and former high school cheerleader won Andrew's heart, however low the odds of a marriage.
Brother of 'Bachelorette' winner Ryan Sutter seeks own identity
May 19, 2003
Having a famous sibling can be hard, even if the 'fame' comes from a reality TV show. According to the Rocky Mountain News, that's the message from Chris Sutter, the lookalike younger brother of Ryan Sutter, who won Trista Rehn's hand in marriage on ABC's The Bachelorette. Chris, a waiter at a restaurant in Beaver Creek, Colorado, joked that he wanted to change his name to "That Guy Who Won The Bachelorette's Brother."
Oddsmakers give edge in 'American Idol' finale to Ruben Studdard
May 19, 2003
According to Online Casino News, the finale of American Idol should be close, but the bookies are giving a slight edge to Ruben Studdard, the plus-sized soul crooner, over Clay Aiken when the final results are announced on Wednesday, May 21.
Network fall schedules feature few reality shows
May 19, 2003
The Associated Press reports that, during the preview of fall schedules by television networks last week, few reality shows made an appearance. In fact, only one of the 38 new shows could even vaguely be called a reality show: Steve Harvey's talent show. The other 37 new shows are all scripted.
Survivor: The Amazon - 'Gay Survivor Journal, The Finale'
May 19, 2003
Larry Johnson, a comedy writer currently working for Disney TV, has posted "Brat vs. Psycho (The Greater of Two Evils)," the latest installment of his 'Gay Survivor Journal,' his weekly commentary about "Survivor: The Amazon" from a gay point of view.
'Real World: Paris' cast announced, series to premiere June 3rd
May 19, 2003
Zap2It.com reports that the latest edition of MTV's "Real World" series, "The Real World: Paris," will premiere Tuesday, June 3rd at 10PM ET. The four men and three women will live in a four-story chateau on the outskirts of Paris with this season's "job" being to serve as travel writers for a Frommer's guide to Paris.
Survivor: The Amazon - Reunion Show Episode summary
May 18, 2003
Our episode summary for live reunion show of "Survivor: The Amazon," entitled "Let's Get Out There and Sell Heidi's IQ," authored by 'landruajm' has been posted. Check it out by clicking HERE
'American Juniors' to premiere on FOX on June 3rd
May 18, 2003
FOX has announced that the "American Juniors" premiere schedule has changed and the series will now have a special two-part premiere starting with a one-hour audition episode Tuesday, June 3 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT), followed by a second one-hour audition episode Tuesday, June 10 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX.
'American Idol' Gay Idol Journal - "The Final Three Edition"
May 17, 2003
Larry Johnson, a comedy writer currently working for Disney TV, has posted the latest installment of his weekly 'American Idol' Gay Idol Journal diva rant, an exclusive to the RealityTVWorld American Idol message boards.
Fox sued by man claiming credit for 'American Idol' concept
May 16, 2003
Harry Keane, ovner of an entertainment company specializing in televised talent competitions, has filed a lawsuit against Fox, claiming misappropriation of his work and trademark and copyright infringement. Also named in the suit are Simon Fuller, American Idol creator; 19TV and Freemantle Media, the production companies for Idol; and judge Simon Cowell.
Survivor: The Amazon - Finale Episode summary
May 15, 2003
Our episode summary for "Survivor: The Amazon" Episode 13, the series finale, entitled "Beaver and the Butthead," authored by "Lisapooh" has been posted. Check it out by clicking HERE
'Survivor 8' to be "all-star" edition, to air in spring 2004
May 14, 2003
At one point, CBS was the leader in reality TV programming. Apparently it's not ready to give up its crown in the 2003-04 season.
'Survivor: The Amazon' finale places 3rd in weekly ratings, draws 22.29 million viewers
May 14, 2003
The final weekly ratings are in, and CBS reports that the finale of "Survivor: The Amazon" was the third most watched program of the week, averaging 22.29 million viewers.
ABC to air four hour miniseries special of 'Bachelorette' Trista Rehn & Ryan Sutter's wedding
May 13, 2003
ABC unveiled its Fall 2003 schedule this morning, and in addition to revealing that former Trista Rehn "Bachelorette" suitor Bob Guiney will star as the next "Bachelor," the network also announced it will air a "The Bachelorette" wedding special featuring the made-for-TV wedding of the last bachelorette, Trista Rehn, and her chosen one, Ryan Sutter.
Bob Guiney, former 'Bachelorette' suitor, to star as ABC's next 'Bachelor'
May 13, 2003
Extra TV reports that ABC surprised the showbiz world on Tuesday morning when the network revealed the Bob Guiney, a former bachelor suitor on Trista Rehn's "The Bachelorette," will be the next bachelor to star on its "The Bachelor" program.
"Cupid" girl Lisa Shannon to begin her $1,000,000 perfect mate search on May 19th
May 12, 2003
CBS has announced that "Cupid," a new relationship reality series from "American Idol’s" Simon Cowell that challenges America to find the perfect mate for one eligible young woman, will begin production on May 19 for broadcast later this summer. Lisa Shannon, a 25-years-old Detriot-area advertising agency copywriter, will be the “Cupid girl.” Along with her girlfriends Kimberly and Laura, Lisa will soon begin a nationwide search to find the man of her dreams. She has the "full package" – looks, personality and brains. However, Lisa has been unlucky in love and is looking to her friends to serve as judges to help find Mr. Right and weed out Mr. Wrong.
'Celebrity Mole' winner Kathy Griffin to host NBC's new "twisted" 'Average Joe' reality show
May 12, 2003
NBC has announced that comedian (and "Celebrity Mole: Hawaii" winner) Kathy Griffin will host NBC’s new reality television relationship drama “Average Joe" (not to be confused with FOX's "Joe Millionaire." The series will premiere this summer.
'Surf Girls' fixed? Judge reportedly claims his decision was overruled by show producers
May 12, 2003
As you may know, MTV's newest reality TV series, "Surf Girls" premieres this evening. What you probably don't know is that according to a report by Transworld Surf magazine, the editors allege that the decision of the show judge in the "American Idol"-style vote off show apparently IS NOT FINAL and the series judge told them that the program producers overruled his bootee decision on at least one occasion.
Ratings: Just under 22 million viewers watch Jenna Morasca be crowned 'Survivor: The Amazon' winner
May 12, 2003
CBS has announced that an average of nearly 22 million viewers watched Jenna outwit, outplay and outlast Matthew and be crowned the ultimate "survivor," according to Nielsen preliminary affiliate based ratings for Sunday, May 11. For those wondering, this is down over 2 million viewers from the "Survivor: Thailand" finale of 24.08 million viewers (which itself was down almost 2 million viewers from the 25.9 million viewers of last May's "Survivor: Marquesas.")
'American Idol' finalist Kimberly Caldwell joins Fox sports show '54321'
May 12, 2003
American Idol is so hot, even Fox Sports wants a piece of the action. Fox Sports Net has announced that it has hired Kimberly Caldwell, a finalist in the current edition of Fox's hit reality/talent series American Idol, as an entertainment correspondent ... for the extreme sports show 54321. Every weekday at 5:30 PM, 54321 mixes fresh video from the hottest skateboarding, snowboarding, surfing, BMX and motocross events throughout the world with features, profiles, in-studio guests and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the lifestyle and trends that these sports envelop into a 30-minute package.
'American Idol' finalist Clay Aiken meets his Internet portrait artist
May 12, 2003
The Modesto Bee reports on one of the more interesting personal-interest stories from this edition of Fox's American Idol. Bee staff srtist Laurie McAdam drew two images of Clay on an Idol fansite that have become well-known among Clay's fans; as a result, she ultimately ended up attending an Idol taping with his mother, Faye Parker, and then had dinner with Clay and his mother after the show.
CBS confirms 'Survivor 7' to be in Panama Pearl Islands
May 12, 2003
CBS may have been unable to keep the identity of the final two in Survivor: The Amazon a secret. However, they did a much better job concealing the location of Survivor 7. Last night, during the finale of the current Survivor, CBS announced that the next edition would take place on the Pearl Islands off Panama, near Bocas del Toro. In fact, the show will be called Survivor: Pearl Islands, to differentiate it from Survivor: Panama, the second (and so far, last) version of the show in the U.K.
Ex-'American Idol' contestant Frenchie Davis to appear in 'Rent' on Broadway
May 11, 2003
The NY Post reports that "American Idol" contestant, Frenchie Davis is Broadway bound. The 23-year old, plus-size singer with the outsized voice will appear as a regular in the Broadway production of the hit show "Rent" starting May 16.
'Idol' spinoff 'American Juniors' to search for new young supergroup starting on May 27th
May 9, 2003
The search is on to find the country's best singers and dancers ages 6 to 13 who will ultimately comprise a five-member group.
Survivor: The Amazon - 'Gay Survivor Journal, Episode 12'
May 9, 2003
Larry Johnson, a comedy writer currently working for Disney TV, has posted "I’ve Been Really Bad," the latest installment of his 'Gay Survivor Journal,' his weekly commentary about "Survivor: The Amazon" from a gay point of view.
Tipster reports 'Bachelorette' Trista Rehn and Ryan Sutter are still together
May 9, 2003
So, are they or aren't they? In an article last week, we noted that Trista Rehn, the star of ABC's The Bachelorette, and her chosen beau Ryan Sutter were appearing separately during the weekend and wondered if there was any deeper significance to their separate appearances. In response, a RealityTVWorld.com tipster has reported that Trista and Ryan are indeed still together in Aspen, CO, and still planning their wedding.
'American Idol' finalist Clay Aiken gets advice from N.C. governor
May 9, 2003
One sure way to tell that a TV show is hot -- politicians want to stage photo opportunities with the stars. According to the Associated Press, American Idol finalist Clay Aiken learned this lesson Thursday in Raleigh, N.C., as he posed on the steps of the state capitol building with N.C. governor Mike Easley.
FOX 'The Simple Life' star Nicole Richie faces felony heroin charge
May 9, 2003
Most reality TV stars don't have their criminal behavior aired until their show stars. However, Nicole Richie, co-star of the upcoming Fox series The Simple Life, has managed to be "outed" by The Smoking Gun before her show has even finished filming.
UK 'Second Chance' reality TV "hero" expelled from elite school
May 9, 2003
Reuters reports that one of the most adverturous reality-TV shows, an English show entitled Second Chance that mixed a reality format with social reform, has come to a sudden and unexpected conclusion when its 16-year-old "star," Ryan Bell, was expelled from the Downside School in Bath, near the Welsh border..
'The Osbournes' Ozzy and Kelly Osbourne to leave Sony Music
May 9, 2003
Is there ever going to be a story about the Osbournes that isn't beset by charges of spin? We're beginning to doubt it.
CBS accepting applications for Survivor 8
May 9, 2003
CBS has begun to accept applications for Survivor 8, which will be filmed in late 2003 in an as-yet-undisclosed location. The application form, in Adobe Acrobat format, can be found here. A printable HTML version is located here.
Survivor: The Amazon - Episode 12 summary
May 9, 2003
Our episode summary for "Survivor: The Amazon" Episode 12, entitled "Male Anatomy 101," authored by "Superman" has been posted. Check it out by clicking HERE
'Bachelor 3' ratings continue to climb, wins timeslot
May 9, 2003
ABC reports that continuing to build its audience on each week since its premiere, the April 30th episode of the third series of "The Bachelor" scored its highest ratings yet in viewers and across all key adult demos. Versus the prior week, "The Bachelor" was up in Total Viewers (13.3 million vs. 12.9 million), Adults 18-49 (6.4/16 vs. 6.2/15) and Adults 18-34 (7.1/19 vs. 6.8/19).
'Extreme Makeover' wins timeslot in Adults 18-34, places 17th for the week
May 9, 2003
ABC reports that with it's solid retention of its "The Bachelor" young adult lead-in, the April 30th episode of "Extreme Makeover" beat NBC's "Law & Order" for the second week in a row in Adults 18-34 (4.9/15 vs. 4.5/13) to win its time period.
The Bachelor 3 - Episode 6 Summary
May 8, 2003
Our episode summary for Episode 6 of ABC's third edition of the "The Bachelor", authored by triednottowatch, has been posted. Check it out by clicking HERE
'American Idol' Gay Idol Journal - "The Bee Gees Edition"
May 8, 2003
Larry Johnson, a comedy writer currently working for Disney TV, has posted the latest installment of his weekly 'American Idol' Gay Idol Journal diva rant, an exclusive to the RealityTVWorld American Idol message boards.
Drew Carey to host The WB's 'Pepsi Play for a Billion' potential billion dollar giveaway
May 8, 2003
The WB has chosen Drew Carey, star of "The Drew Carey Show" and "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" to host this fall's blockbuster TV special "Pepsi Play for a Billion." Contestants will win a chance to appear on the show, a two-hour special in September, by participating in a summer-long promotion from Pepsi, which is hitting stores nationwide this month.
NBC crowns 12-year-old guitarist Cheyenne Kimball as 'America’s Most Talented Kid'
May 8, 2003
In a two-hour finale event, NBC has named 12-year-old guitarist Cheyenne Kimball as “America’s Most Talented Kid” as part of the series’ finals competition that also awards the winner a grand prize of $50,000. Thirteen-year-old Agape Chen (from Bakersfield, California) was first runnerup ($25,000), while 7-year-old Colton “Lil’C” Burton (Santa Clarita, California) was awarded $10,000 as the second runnerup.
Survivor: The Amazon - 'Gay Survivor Journal, Episode 11'
May 6, 2003
Larry Johnson, a comedy writer currently working for Disney TV, has posted "I’ve Been Really Bad," the latest installment of his 'Gay Survivor Journal,' his weekly commentary about "Survivor: The Amazon" from a gay point of view.
'American Idol' Gay Idol Journal - "The Neil Sedaka Hits Edition"
May 6, 2003
Larry Johnson, a comedy writer currently working for Disney TV, has posted the latest installment of his weekly 'American Idol' Gay Idol Journal diva rant, an exclusive to the RealityTVWorld American Idol message boards.
The Bachelor 3 - Episode 5 Summary
May 6, 2003
Our episode summary for Episode 5 of ABC's third edition of the "The Bachelor", authored by sorgee, has been posted. Check it out by clicking HERE
'Survivor 7' to film in Mexico?
May 6, 2003
The rumors about location for the seventh episode of Survivor have been percolating for some time. Most of the rumors have picked a site close to the United States -- and that site has usually been Mexico. The rumors have gained enough momentum that, back on April 8, the Orange County Register even referred to "trying to get a bet down on Survivor: Mexico" when discussing the online betting 'scandal' in Survivor: The Amazon.
CBS confirms May 29th start date for 'The Amazing Race 4,' reveals cast info
May 6, 2003
The speculation is finally over, and the rumors turned out to be true. CBS has confirmed that The Amazing Race 4 will air beginning Thursday, May 29, at 8 PM EDT, ending weeks of speculation about its air date. The show wil, at least for the premiere, occupy the time slot that normally belongs to Survivor and, during the summer, has previously belonged to Big Brother. The premiere of The Amazing Race 4 will be a 90-minute special to provide background on all the teams.
MTV picks up both 'Sorority Life' and 'Fraternity Life' for another season
May 5, 2003
Zap2It reports that MTV is bringing back "Sorority Life" for a third season and "Fraternity Life" for a second season. Both new seasons have already been shooting and will premiere in September 2003. The new edition of "Sorority Life" will follow the girls of the Zeta Sigma Phi pledge class at the University of Southern California. "Fraternity Life" will focus on the University of California at Santa Cruz chapter of Delta Omega Chi.
Survivor: The Amazon - Episode 11 summary
May 2, 2003
Our episode summary for Survivor: The Amazon, Episode 11 entitled "Christy-ella," authored by "GuessItRains" has been posted. Check it out by clicking HERE
'Amazing Race 4' may start as early as May 29
May 2, 2003
The strange story of scheduling for The Amazing Race 4 keeps getting stranger. We previously reported that the Asian network AXN had posted that the show would air in the summer of 2003, but we also carried a lengthy analysis from reality TV expert Paul Decker, who expected the show to be held until fall.
Ninth Eco-Challenge begins May 5 on USA Network in U.S.
May 2, 2003
The St. Petersburg Times reports that Eco-Challenge, the show that first put Mark Burnett on the front page of the Wall Street Journal, returns for the ninth time on Monday, May 5 through Thursday, May 8 on the USA Network in the U.S.
'Nashville Star' finale renews Arkansas-Texas rivalry
May 2, 2003
Don't these two states even give it up? In the spirit of the old South-Western Conference, made up of seven universities from Texas and the University of Arkansas, the Arkansas Star Gazette reports that the final three contestants on USA Network's country-music series Nashville Star consist of two contestants from Texas and one from Arkansas. Although the voting is complete, the winner will not be announced until Saturday night at 9.
'Bachelorette' Trista Rehn and Ryan Sutter continue to appear separately
May 2, 2003
Maybe it's just the life of a media celebrity, or maybe it really does mean something. In the wake of the speculation about the wedding plans of Trista Rehn, star of ABC's The Bachelorette, and her selected beau Ryan Sutter, we expected that they might do a joint appearance. Sort of like J-Lo and Ben at the Boston Red Sox game last weekend. But ...
Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie "go out in style" before beginning 'The Simple Life'
May 2, 2003
Zap2It reports that Paris Hilton might be going to live the The Simple Life, but you can trust her to go out in style. According to Page Six, Before she left last Friday morning, she and her fellow show co-star Nicole Richie filmed a "going-away shopping spree" on Rodeo Drive. Hilton admiringly said, "Nicole is three days sober!" (Richie was caught with heroin earlier this year.)
NBC begins production on 'Race For The Altar," announces Lisa Dergan as host
May 2, 2003
NBC has announced that it's new unscripted drama “Race to the Altar” is set to begin production, Sunday, May 4, 2003. Broadcaster and model Lisa Dergan has signed on to host the eight episode series in which eight engaged couples compete in a series of mental and physical challenges designed to test the strength of their relationship. Renowned event designer Colin Cowie will lend his expertise and style to the series, planning the live fantasy wedding that will be awarded as the Grand Prize to the winning couple in the final episode.