By Marquesa LaDawn
NNPA Columnist

 
It’s hard to believe the RH franchise was created based on the ABC show “Desperate Housewives.” I have to admit, I didn’t really tune in until the third or fourth season and when I did, I was hooked.

Why?

The realness, shock factor, over the top living, the “no she didn’t moments.” The viewers got to see if the grass is greener without leaving their lawn. Since becoming an addicted fan, I realize that there’s no perfect life. In fact, life can be complicated for all, even those with unlimited wealth. It’s not just about the money and lifestyles, but relationships and temperament.

Nowhere was that more evident than the Atlanta version. The RHOA’s girls are loving the Philippines, and my girl Claudia is killin’ it as the host of this soirée. From Day 1 of the trip, she felt a need to protect Phaedra, which translated to the best room and private time.

Smart strategy, I have to say. It got Phaedra to open up, which never happens. Heck, before the episode ended, Kenya was granted “let’s talk it out” time by Phaedra. I’m thinking we will see a softer side of her. Before I hand out too many compliments, I need to note the “thumbs down” moments:

• Nene bailed and didn’t go on the trip. No surprise here.

• Cynthia tried to mend fences with Phaedra, but was shot down with a deep stare.

• We still do not know Demetria – I loved her in the Tyler Perry sitcom, ‘House of Payne,” but she’s mostly invisible on the show.

A really amusing moment, from fellow “food lover” Kandi. Trying out yoga for the first time, she fell a sleep and started snoring in the class. Too funny!

Back to no-show Nene, she has her own show again, this time with Kim Zolciak. I did not see this one coming. Still, a brilliant move by Bravo! I think the other housewives can do without NeNe and still keep us hooked.

Speaking of being hooked, the RH Franchise is famous for their reunions. The bombastic Real Housewives of Beverly Hills reunion was no exception.

First things first, Yolanda looked beautiful, but seemed out of sorts and needed to depart early. But, before she left she did her “I’m loyal to Brandi” talk. This bothered me once upon a time, but now I kinda like it. We all need a die-hard friend, no matter how bad we are.

That being said, Lisa V. and Kyle had guns blazing, poised to tell the truth about Brandi. Poor Andy, the flamboyant host was even attacked by lady B. Again, although Brandi is a pain and makes really stupid choices, no one wants to be attacked. Of course, her new BFF Kimberly Richards was eager to defend.

Kim is still flustered and believes the ladies ruined her reputation. The fact that she took pills and acted like she was under the influence on air is not her fault –or so she thinks. You would think she would have engaged in some self-reflection as the season played out, but she didn’t. It’s the same old, “it’s everybody else’s fault” Kim.

I’m still happy about the new Kyle this season, she was really into sharing her feelings and telling it like it is. During the reunion she did not disappoint. I totally lost it when Kyle mentioned that Brandi walks around with the string of her tampon showing. Brandi retorted that at least she still has a period, Ms. Menopause. Yes, she did.

The other housewives where not silent bystanders at the reunion. Lisa R., though soft spoken, participated. Of course, Kim was ready to attack. They actually tried to compare Lisa R. being thin (possible Anorexia) with Kim’s drug issues. We all know Lisa R. has always been thin – it’s her frame. I think, Kim is jealous that Lisa R. has a real TV career. Heck, the woman just earned a high seven-figure check for her depend commercials!

Before I close, I have a news flash on The Real Housewives of New Jersey’s Teresa Giudice. Teresa and her family seem to be adjusting to her new life behind bars. But, there’s a hole with Teresa away that 6-hour family visits can’t fill. Emails to and from her daughters along with nightly phone conversations fill a small part of the void. I’m impressed that the lady that once said, “I refuse to live in a used house,” is existing with great focus in the Big House.

Marquesa LaDawn is a professional businesswoman who escapes the pressures of living in New York City by retreating into the real world of reality TV. Follow me on twitter @realityshowgirl and subscribe to her podcast at www.RealitytvGirl.com.

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Reporter II

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