"Reality" Trip

The word reality seems to mean something much more than the plain definition of real. What is real anymore, the basis of many television shows is based around this one single concept. Reality shows document real people in every day life, but is this even real. These real people have now become celebrities that involve a fan base, body guards, publicists, photo shoots, and gossip stories. All of which are now included on twitter, facebook, gossip blogs, magazines, and various television shows (real gossip news shows are now reporting news on "reality" show stars). Where does it stop, and how are you able to decipher between something that is real and something that is all an act of publicity? For real life does not involve fans along with star status. We laugh at reality shows, but being upon face to face with one of these "reality" celebrities we feel a rush of excitement, thus encouraging this whole "reality" concept of entertainment. This is where my "reality" trip starts. Being in the presence of celebrities in the actual real, not televised, world.

The first celebrity trip starts at Madison Square Garden, MSG. Attending a long awaited Enrique Iglesias concert was a dream. However, with all the hype that immerses your body upon entrance into the arena, I look around and wonder how does one person make this many people, if even for one night, go crazy with excitement. The concert was an overwhelming experience of singing and entertainment to say the least. Between all the "fashion" statements fans were making, to the actual making out that took place between Mr. Iglesias and a random fan pulled on stage, I begin to wonder is this normal behavior? If this type of behavior took place during the every day life, without a celebrity being present, you may look as though you have gone mad. Yet, add a popular singer and a room full of screaming fans, and you become a part of a world where anything could happen, anything goes. No regrets. No restrictions. No holding back. And everyone goes crazy for this spectacle. Still, moments after the concert reality begins to sink in. As you walk out, and notice that all the over priced souvenirs are now sold out, you realize that you yourself have become a part of all this hype that lasts only for a few hours, yet somehow it was worth every minute.

The next two celebrity trips takes place due to the popular "reality" show Jersey Shore. The first took place at a Mandee store where Sammi "Sweetheart" was doing a meet and greet. It was a Friday night, and was taking place near work, so why not. I made a night out of it with dinner at a new restaurant nearby that included happy hour, and then headed over to the packed clothing store. Being 5'2 I instantly fit in with all the overly excited 13 year olds. As I stood in the cold for just about two hours, contemplating whether or not it was worth it just for a glimpse into this "reality" stars world, I realized that between all the over dramatic tweens and their outspoken moms, that maybe this was not the place for me after all. However, I had already waited this long so why not just stick it out. My initial response was right, it was not worth the wait. Upon entering the store there was a DJ along with dancing employees, and an actual sweet Sammi from Jersey Shore who was only allowed to take one picture with each fan, photographs only taken by hired staff. It was an experience, not the best and not the worst, but it was an experience I at one point did look forward to. As they say, never regret something that once made you happy.

The second Jersey Shore meet and greet was a book signing with Snooki. This time the signing took place at a nearby Costco and it was a nice day out. Even after the last disappointment, I was still excited. I took my place in line amongst the Snooki look-a-likes all dressed in leopard and leggings with poofed hair and sunglasses. Has a "reality" star really turned Jersey girls into snook-a-likes? Is this really the next big fashion trend? This crowd at least did not only consist of tweens, but actual adults. This time I felt as though I fit in a little better, even though I did not dress in leopard print. As a fan of Jersey Shore, I enjoy watching the episodes on a weekly basis, but I do not enjoy meeting people who actually question whether or not Jersey residents all act like tanned guidos and guidettes. Growing up in Jersey, I don't know if I should be offended or just laugh at this idea of "reality." Being in Jersey, I luckily don't always encounter such ridiculous opinions about my home or the people who live here. Back on line, with a new copy of Snooki's book, A Shore Thing, I am happy that upon the stars arrival the line moved quickly, a lot quicker than the Sammi meet and greet. Snooki dressed in a large leopard print sun hat, sorry no poof this time, and gold leggings. A part of her entourage were her dad and boyfriend, Gianni. Getting a book signed by Snooki in Costco was a very surreal experience. Again, this is a familiar face I laugh at on television every week, yet in person I become overwhelmed with all the hype of meeting a celebrity once again.

So again I ask, if these people are allowing their real lives to be documented for all to see, then why are they now celebrities? Celebrities who are now attending award shows with some of the most well-known actors and actresses, partying with the most talented people, and being publicized in magazines and websites. Whether we like or not, "reality" shows will continue to grow as well as the popularity of such "reality" stars. Even as a fan, I realize that "real" television is not in fact reality, but in any case who wouldn't want to see their favorite celebrity making mistakes? A publicity stunt or just intriguing entertainment, either way it is a guilty pleasure for many!