Here Comes Honey Boo Boo?

            As part of my desire to keep up with pop culture, I recently decided to tune in to some reality television. I didn’t want to waste a regular amount of time watching the newest reality phenomenon, “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo.” Okay, phenomenon is not the right word, how about debacle? Anyway, I watched short features of the show on On Demand and that was really enough for me to get a good feel for the show without demoralizing myself. The features are much shorter than the real TLC program (2 minutes long) and more fitting for someone who does not have the patience to deal with shows that champion people who are self-proclaimed rednecks. Many have criticized the show for that reason and because it is a spin-off of sorts from “Toddlers and Tiaras” people have criticized that show as well, however for slightly different reasons. I feel outrageous shows of the sort give people something to talk about. They give people some thing to debate and fodder for water cooler conversations at work.

            Child pageantry is definitely a controversial subject. While I do believe it builds self esteem, confidence and responsibility, I think that pageant contestants can sometimes get caught up in an alternate reality where winning by any mean is the most important thing in life. There is life beyond the tiara and sash. The most important aspect of participating in pageants or high-competition sports or competitions is a good balance in life.

            Reality shows are more successful when the show is able to perpetuate a stereotype or portray a certain character as evil, over bearing, or complaisant. It is very difficult to judge a family or situation based on how it is presented in a reality show. After all, the reality show isn’t out to necessarily portray reality. The show’s objective is to bring in ratings.  The redneck culture that is on “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo,” has to be common somewhere, but I find it hard to believe that the amount of showy, in-your-face red neck confidence is the norm. Some of that may be editing and some may be acting based on a subtle nudge from producers. The show’s success is up to you, the regular viewer, and not me.