A New Reality
Wednesday, November 7th, 2007I’ve been a fan of reality TV since before it had a name. I first tuned in back in 1992. That was the year MTV aired it’s first season of The Real World.
While I readily admit this trait, I feel compelled to qualify: I do have some limits. For example, I tune in to every season of Amazing Race. Bravo TV’s Top Chef is one of my favorite shows. On the other hand, I wouldn’t ever watch The Bachelor (although, I have been known to catch an episode of Beauty and the Geek). America’s Next Top Model? No. Project Runway? Yes.
I mention this affinity for three reasons - 1) the realization that the current television writers’ strike won’t have a significant affect on my viewing habits; 2) the fact I told GT publisher Fran Gallagher long ago that his life would make great fodder for a reality series; 3) the receipt of a recent email in which GT distribution specialist John Wroblewski - who’s known Fran for 20-plus years - told me he had independently come to the same conclusion about the potential for a Fran-centric show.
In my imagination, the show would revolve around GT’s Global Headquarters in Yardley, Pa. Fran would be at the helm - sort of like The Skipper on Gilligan’s Island. Since about half of the GT staff (including me) telecommutes from locations around the country, we’d be “seen” as disembodied voices emanating from a giant speaker in Fran’s office. It would be like the reality version of The Office.
I’d tell you more, but I’m pressed for time. Kitchen Nightmares is about to start. I have to tune in to see Chef Gordon Ramsey let loose on yet another hapless restaurant owner.
Lisa Matte, Editor in Chief, Global Traveler
