My New Reality

I am a huge reality television junkie. It is often thought of as the lower class of TV but I am here to tell you that whoever thinks that is wrong. I watch a lot of it and I can confidently say it supplies some of the best moments in television history. We get some characters that just can't be written, we get the shock value that some shows can't even fathom and the one liners are endless; these reality stars are the kings and queens of the sound bite.

My history in reality TV is long and varied. Like everyone I started with Big Brother UK, which is when I ventured into the US and Canadian versions. Then I started watching the likes of The Hills and The City on MTV and Keeping Up With The Kardashians on E! This grew into a love of reality shows that followed 'normal' people around, then the world gifted us the "Real Housewives' franchises (I must say I only watched 3 of them, even I can't keep up with all of the cities). I love these shows for the drama and the escape they provide. I also developed a love for the reality/competition hybrids like Project Runway and America's Next Top Model, which has developed into me practically watching any competition show for every industry in the world, whether it be cooking or make-up.

As a gift from me to you I have found new reality shows that need to be celebrated for their greatness (before their untimely demise, which happens a lot in the reality world). Let's go.

The Real Housewives of Potomac

I always said I will only watch three franchises of the 'Real Housewives' brand (New York, Atlanta and New Jersey), but I decided I would try this one out. I started this year so I thought I would get into this one from the word go. It obviously follows the premise of the all the others, I mean if it ain't broke why fix it? This time it is set in Potomac; yep, I have never heard of it either - but this is something they are very proud of it.
Two of the wives have taken the spotlight so far. We have Gizelle, she is a single divorcee with 3 daughters - she has the sass of Nene (Atlanta) and take no shit attitude of Bethenny (New York), she could definitely be the star of this residence. Then we have Karen, she is the epitome of old money and the only wife who seems to be an actual wife. She doesn't take to newcomers and she makes no apologies even if she is in the wrong. She has a stare that could turn my heart to ice.
So far this show has peeked my interest, it has the right amount of drama that it doesn't seem fake - I mean some of the drama is petty but we need that. Also if you're into your drinking games you should take a shot everytime 'etiquette' is mentioned - you will be wasted within the first 10 minutes.

Ellen's Design Challenge

I love anything that Ellen Degeneres does, so of course when she announces she is creating a furniture design program of course I was going to be watching. I would actually watch any competition show that features anything creative, and I have. I am in awe of some of the things that are created on this show, and I never thought I would be so excited over a well executed chair! 

One thing this show is missing is drama, you can tell with some reality competition shows that the cast is half chosen for the fire they may bring, regardless of their talent. This show does not do that. Their competitors are very serious, very hard working and very talented. And I love that about this show, there is no distracting hissy fits here just amazing work. I love a show that I can learn something from, and I honestly believe that given the right tools I may be able to whittle a table leg!

Dance Moms

I am a little late to the party with this one, I have only watched the new season and this is the fifth season. It was already on my radar but I honestly thought I would have no interest in this show. However, my favourite Youtuber (Mamrie Hart) is obsessed with it so I thought I would give it a go - so glad I did. It is is cringe TV. How can these grown women act like this? In front of their kids? They have no filter, they will slam each other's daughters, act like they are this little clique that we are all desperate to get into. Some of their actions are embarrassing, but it is great TV! Abbie Lee (the owner of the dance company) frustrates the crap out of me sometimes, but I understand she is going through some legal issues right now so I'll step back. 

The true stars of this show are the dancers, through all the crap the mothers are putting them through they stay concentrated on what they are doing, they compete and they win. The dance competitions at the end of each episode really showcase the talents of these kids and it is inspiring, really need to work on my alignment. 

Pitch Slapped

A reality television show about competing high school acapella choirs? Yes! This is what our TV schedule was missing. When you see this advertised you just know that I will be the one watching. I enjoy live performances on TV shows, combine them with competitions and drama then you have a hit. This show features two competing school choirs, Stay Tuned from Cherry Hill and Highlands Voices from Allendale. Stay Tuned always come second to Highlands Voices whenever they have competed in the past. 

So now with the help from a guy called Deke Sharon they plan to win the next acapella tournament, Highlands also have a new leader in the shape of Diana Preisler. Deke and Diana are sworn enemies in the acapella world so it's become personal for them to beat the other. 

This show is a lighthearted look at the fierce world of acapella competition, we see tears and triumphs. I am completely absorbed into this show and I cannot wait to see who wins the finale next week (my money is on Stay Tuned). 

Honourable Mention

Mob Wives

I have watched this show from the very beginning, from the first episode I became obsessed with these women and their lives. You think 'Real Housewives of anywhere' has drama? They should find a seat and sit down. These women are actually related to the mob one way or another, so their drama is of the highest calibre (mixed with the petty stuff we come to expect). 'Loyalty', 'Rat' and 'Fuck' are just some of the terms that you will have to get comfortable hearing about a million times an episode. By the way 'loyalty' is the most important thing, a 'Rat' is the scum of the earth who may have cooperated with the police in their time - so don't call someone one without the truth to back it up, don't compare anyone to one and don't judge someone because they may be related to one, and 'Fuck' is used in almost every sentence spoken, it slips in nicely anywhere.

The reason I mention it is because it is on its last season, VH1 have pulled the plug or the ladies have decided to shut it down - I don't know, but I will miss this show. It had everything I could need from a reality show. It definitely taught me some things about the mob I never knew, it entertained me and at times it shocked me. 

Today we lost a great, beautiful woman. Angela "Big Ang" Raiola lost her battle to cancer this morning. She was the runaway star of the show. She supplied the laughs we all need in our lives, she consoled the other women during their hard times and most importantly she was a great woman. She never started an argument on the show, she was the peacekeeper. Credit to how great she is that she is the only star of the show that go their own spin off.

I hate that we were only aware of her for the last few years because of the success of the show, I wish she was on television years ago. She gave us golden moments and she will never be forgotten. Rest in peace Angela. 

The 2016 Grammys - My Fashion Review

What is described as the biggest night in music, is also one of the biggest nights in fashion. We get to see our favourite stars of music and screen combine to celebrate the songs that have been littering our airwaves. I always look forward to the Grammy's red carpet because it is supposed to be the time when we see our faves show off - whether it be a crazy look or basically a 'look at how much money I have' look. This year though (much like last year) I was disappointed. It was boring to say the least. However as I do, I have picked some of the looks that caught my eye and I am here to judge them. Small disclaimer - I am not judging the individual, just simply their choice of outfit. Let's go ...

Kacey Musgraves wearing Armani Prive
One can be naive in assuming a country star wouldn't show up looking so stunning, how wrong you narrowed people are. She is living proof that just because she sings about trailers and dime stores doesn't mean she can't turn heads for all the right reasons. When looking at fashion for the Grammys I don't have a checklist as such, I just want to be excited - she did that. The violet and blue hues look rich and sumptuous and the texture is really interesting. It is fitted to perfection and hits the floor just right. I actually like the hairstyle but you know what I am not afraid for it to of been bigger.

Zendaya wearing DSquared2
This girl knows to rock a red carpet, she isn't afraid of bold fashion choices and she is one star I always look out for. At age 19 she is incredibly self aware. She knows what looks good and she makes no apologies if you don't understand it. First thing first let us talk about the hair - she has made mullets cool again, I don't know for how long, but this small space in time I am one call away from my barber. I love a woman in a suit, there is something so sexy and cool about it, she shows strength mixed with femininity - and it is tailored to perfection. I personally can't wait to see what she wears for the Oscars (especially after last years hoohaa).

Ellie Goulding wearing Stella McCartney
This just looks so effortless and cool, but I can imagine it was anything but that. Her tousled hair is a great juxtaposition to the streamline cut of the dress. This could've easily looked like a pink sack but it is cut and shaped to her amazing body just right. I really enjoy the mix and match-ness of the jewellry as well, it just emphasizes her passiveness when it comes to what a fashion critic may say. It all works for me, she has never looked more beautiful in my eyes.

Demi Lovato wearing Norisol Ferrari
Demi I love her, she is my number one. But what is this? She looks so much older than she is, she is singing about having confidence and yet this looks like she has none at all. I don't want to be nasty because I truly love this woman, I like elements of this outfit. I appreciate the body jewellery, that is a nice surprise. Plus the hair looks amazing - I have missed the long hair Demi! She just overall looks a bit meh! This is the Grammy's, we all know she has it in her to stun us - maybe if this dress was sleeveless or something - I don't know, she has done better before. For one second though let's step away from fashion - how fucking amazing was she during the Lionel Richie tribute???!!! Best vocal of the night.

Adele wearing Givenchy Haute Couture by Riccardo Tisci
I don't know. Does she look beautiful? Yes. Is it a well fitted dress? Yes. Does her body look slammin? Yes. Is her new bob beautiful? Yes. It is so boring though!! I don't really like the where the skirt starts on this dress, it looks a bit full right on the stomach. Of course she is wearing black, I feel her because black is also my favourite colour of clothing too. Those little slits on the shoulders do nothing for the dress, looks like an afterthought - it doesn't add anything or take anything away, they are just there. I want Adele to have her big fashion moment, and I am getting impatient. Her performance, regardless of the technical issues, was just beautiful though.

Ciara wearing Alexandre Vauthier 
Yes! Yes! Yes! This is what I want, a fashion risk! This could have bombed tremendously or become a moment. I think it was a moment! With a body like hers, that it is obvious she works hard for, she should show it off. It is sculptured by the gods. My favourite part of this whole look though is the hair, it is styled beautifully. It is simply just a low pony with a few strands pulled out - gorgeous. The makeup was tastefully done because let's face it, the star of this look is the dress. The slit right up in there, the body suit, the low cut front - tick tick tick, she won. If I had to be picky, and I have been accused of being picky in the past, is that I don't love the print. Who cares though, she isn't gonna lose any sleep over my opinions.

Selena Gomez wearing Calvin Klein
Stunning girl, beautiful, talented but I am bored with this look. There was no umph - was she trying to let Taylor have the moment? I don't know. There is no obvious wow factor. I think she needs to dress to resemble how special she is. There isn't a lot more for me to say really. I love this girl and I want her to reach new fashion levels.

Janelle Monae wearing Jean Paul Gaultier
Girls find a seat, sit down, take out your note book and get a pen that works. This is an education in how to do the Grammys! I am not saying to copy her look, copy her bravery. Stand out from the crowd without looking like a fool, know what colours suit you and push boundaries! Janelle I salute you, you never fail to please me on the red carpets of the world. This look is slightly cookie compared to previous looks so some people may give a slight side eye when she walks by, but nethertheless you're looking at her! She is art.

Taylor Swift wearing Versace 
I have been a Swifty since 'Tim McGraw' and 'Teardrops on my Guitar', I was pushing for people to listen to her in this country before they even knew what a Taylor Swift was. I was, and still am, a huge fan! I have followed her career for close to ten years now. I just had to say that so people know that I am coming from a place of love. I hate this look. I really don't get it. It cheapens her so much, I can appreciate the simplicity of the outfit. I don't like the colours, they are so jarring. I was so disappointed and I really don't ever want to be with her because I never have been. She is a phenomenal performer and songwriter, she has inspired me and millions others. I just hope this isn't a sign of things to come - LET ME STYLE YOU TAYLOR! If I can be a bit sketchy for a second though - her body is banging!

Please Come Back!

I have a hard time of letting go. When a certain musical act comes into my life, and rocks the crap out of it, I want them to stay forever. However they decide for some reason or another to just abandon me. I know they may have personal issues, management issues or bigger dreams - but how dare they! You can't delight me and then disappoint me; that is not how it works. I invest a lot of time into listening to music, it has taken me a lifetime to perfect the unskippable playlist.

Call me selfish, but I want more. I need more. They create this magic and I don't think it is unreasonable of me to want them to make more, they have it in them and I believe in them. So it is now 2016 and I would like to put forward the six individual acts I would love to make a comeback, in fact don't even call it a comeback - call it the next phase of their brilliance.

Michelle Branch
Last Single - 'Loud Music' released June 10, 2011
Last Full Album - 'Hotel Paper' released June 24, 2003
I know she has released 2 EPs since 'Hotel Paper' but I need more. I want a full album, with music videos and a tour. Since her last full release she has had a family. She has had a life outside of music and that's all great but please come back!! I need her beautiful voice breathing new music into my life.

Stacie Orrico
Last Single - 'So Simple' released January 26, 2007
Last Full Album - 'Beautiful Awakening' released August 14, 2006
Where did she go? What happened? She released three great albums, songs that sung for a generation and then poof nothing. Having a quick stalking session I can see she has released an EP in 2014 on Soundcloud - thanks for letting me know Stacie! Now I need the full album and a tour thank you very much.

Avril Lavigne
Last Single - 'Fly' (Charity Single for The Special Olympics) released April 16, 2015
Last Full Album - 'Avril Lavigne' released November 1, 2013
I feel kind of bad for demanding new music from her, we all know about her recent health issues and I wish her nothing but the best. For selfish reasons I really want to hear new stuff from her. She is a gifted songwriter and a beautiful singer in my eyes. She should be back on top where she belongs and teach these other wannabes how it is done.

Vanessa Carlton
Last Single - 'House of Seven Swords' released October 2015
Last Full Album - 'Liberman' released October 23, 2015
Okay, so it wasn't until I started to research where she was that I realised that she released some stuff recently (really need to get on the ball more). However I still want a 2016 comeback - a comeback of the Vanessa I loved. I want piano ballads and pop hits again. I guess she has grown and developed as an artist and I still love her - I just can't let go of '1000 Miles' and 'White Houses'.

N-Dubz
Last Single - 'Morning Star' released March 14, 2011
Last Full Album - 'Love.Live.Life' released November 29, 2010 
Scoff at me, turn your nose up, I don't care. I loved this group so much! My guilty pleasure. They had a sound all of their own and they did all on their own. There is a respect that they deserve because they were a completely self made band. They paid for their own music videos, they produced/wrote all their own stuff and paid for distribution. They never apologised because they worked hard to create their sound. After all the trouble they have gone through in their lives it is time to go back to their roots. These guys need to get back in the studio together again, dust off the blueprints of their original success and start all over. I would love to hear a new N-Dubz song!

The Saturdays
Last Single - 'What Are You Waiting For?' released August 10, 2014
Last Full Album - 'Living for the Weekend' released October 14 2013
I called it as soon as they took their break - they weren't coming back soon. It has been nearly 2 dark years. They are all distracted with their solo projects that they haven't even discussed a comeback. I am going to be 40 and be surprised to see The Saturdays 20 Year Reunion Special on TV somewhere aren't I? Since they have left us behind Little Mix and Fifth Harmony have taken the reins (I ain't mad), The Saturdays will get forgotten about by a lot of folk - not me - if they don't do something soon!

Carrie Underwood - Missed Opportunities

Carrie Underwood is hands down one of my favourite vocalists of all time. She has the power I look for and the country tone that takes me back to Nashville (I have never been to Nashville physically). She alone takes up most of my iPhone playlist; I have 372 songs that have all been meticulously chosen and Carrie is 39 of them! May not sound like a grand statement - but it is! She holds a very dear place in my heart, I can relate to a lot of her music and also it supplies the one thing I find necessary when listening to music - can I mime to it and pretend I am in a dramatic music video, and yes I can, she delivers like no one else.

However a lot of her songs do not got any attention and I find that incredibly sad, not just for the population, but for me aswell! I want to be able to watch live performances and see music videos for all of her songs; but just like the rest of the music world she only chooses to release around 5-6 of the songs from each album! I WANT MORE!

So as I do, I have a problem and I have found a solution. The missed opportunities compilation album. This can purely be a selection of her greatest non hits or even (and I type this with shaking excitement) a video album! I have selected the 10 songs for the album so Carrie doesn't have to - you're welcome. Also I have named the album 'Relapse' after one of my chosen songs. Also the latin definition for relapse is to 'slip back' - kind of perfect for this style of album don't you think. 

So let us get this track list underway.

1. Relapse - From the album 'Storyteller'

I may be jumping the gun here because this song is on her most current album so there may still be time, however this may be the push she needs to release this single! I can't lose. 

2. Lessons Learned - From the album 'Some Hearts'

An amazing motivational song. Basically every knock you get in life you should appreciate them, because they are (wait for it...) lessons learned.

3. Flat On The Floor - From the album 'Carnival Ride'

This is a toe tapper if I ever heard one! It is about trying to get out of a terrible relationship. Although if you want to get deep it could possibly be about trying to escape an abusive relationship - but I might be reading too much in to it, I do that sometimes. 

4. Forever Changed - From the album 'Blown Away'

This a tear jerker. Emotional doesn't come close to how this song will make you feel. It is a song about a loved one losing their memory as they gets older. I want to assume dementia but it doesn't mention anything. So sad, so beautifully sung.

5. Change - From the album 'Play On'

A nice song to make you feel guilty for not giving to charity. A real thinker to make you evaluate your life choices.  

6. Cupid's Got A Shotgun - From the album 'Blown Away'

A fun country ditty about avoiding Cupid basically. Love that she sings about shooting Cupid herself, that pure nugget just wants love in this world!

7. We're Young and Beautiful - From the album 'Some Hearts'

A beautiful little love song about enjoying life whilst they are young and beautiful basically. It is just a nice, easy listening, sweet song; and we don't get much of them these days.

8. Get Out of This Town - From the album 'Carnival Ride'

One of my favourite type of songs are ones about escape. I love the idea of one day packing my bag and just running. Not in a depressing way, more just to see what else is out there. This song hits that feeling on the head.

9. Starts With Goodbye - From the album 'Some Hearts'

A song about the pain of having to say goodbye, having to leave something behind or even been left behind. So sad, but uplifting at the same time - something Carrie is an expert at doing.

10. Someday When I Stop Loving You - From the album 'Play On'

A very typical country song (that isn't a bad thing), a nice simple music track with some beautiful vocals. Quite heartbreaking to hear her singing about trying get over a break up.

 

Bonus Track

Mexico - From the album 'Storyteller'

I just really love this song right now, up there with 'Relapse' as one my favourites from the new album. Made it a bonus track because she needs to release it as a single yesterday! She could also re-record it and release it as a sequel to 'Something Bad' with fellow country goddess Miranda Lambert. 

There you go Carrie, Carrie's management and Carrie's Record label; I have done all the hard work for you. You have your cover and your tracklist. You already own the songs so just put them together, make me 11 music videos and I will move on. I need to move on. 

Stressed out, Stone Cold but Here - What I am currently listening to

I know, I know you have all been asking 'what the frick is Craig listening to lately?!'. Well despair no more as I am here to share would could possibly the best music taste of all time (I may be biased). Also you may be shocked there is no country music on my list this time, I haven't turned my back on my southern cousins it's just a lot more has caught my attention lately. So, let us get this underway.

Twenty One Pilots - Stressed Out

Twenty One Pilots have been on my radar for a long time now, not that I would choose to listen to them but I was aware that they were there. Their cover of the Elvis classic 'Can't Help Falling In Love' really perked my ears up. The singer's (Tyler Joseph) voice is so so so good, it has a strained quality that I really like. However, back to this song. I don't honestly know what is that I like about it, it isn't like anything else on my playlist. I think I really respond to the lyrics and anyone that feels out of pace with life. I really love the lyric 'Used to dream of outer space but now they're laughing at our face, Saying, "Wake up, you need to make money."' It really resonates with me because right now I am wising up to the fact that we may not be able to pursue what we love, we just need to make those pennies and pounds. 

Selena Gomez - Hands To Myself

I have been a fan of Selena since back in the Wizard days, I have also enjoyed a lot of her music. She has truly matured hasn't she? Especially with this new album. One thing I love about the new album is that it seems Selena has finally realised her vocal limits. So instead of pushing out notes; we have now got a more mellow, low tempo vibe. 'Hands To Myself' might just be my favourite songs on the album. We start off with a slow shoulder roll beat and finish on a full body shimmy. I absolutely love the bit where she sings 'I mean I could but why would I want to', I will sit and wait for it and try my best every-damn-time to Drag Race style mime to it. Instead of the video, I have posted a live performance of it. I think this shows Selena's personality a lot more because she is just having fun with it. I highly recommend you watch the official video though - for the guy alone if nothing else.

Alessa Cara - Here

I am obsessed with this song. It perfectly describes my thoughts when entering a party (that is until the Jacky D kicks in). For 19, her songwriting skills are impressive. I don't really know what to say about this song. Just give it a listen and you will see what I am talking about. She really knows how to write for someone with social anxiety. Without sounding simple, I am really impressed with the mature language she uses in this song, and the way she packs it in. This song is heavy with lyrics and I hope one day to be able to conquer them all. So far I have the first two lines down (three if you count that weird male vocal at the beginning). 

Demi Lovato - Stone Cold

I don't think there is a single song she has released that I haven't been taken to higher place whilst playing. You know how Oprah has her love for Tina Turner - like Tina is her number one, I think Demi might be mine. I just realised this whilst typing. Feels good to finally admit this to myself. I can listen to all of Demi's albums and rarely have to skip a single song. Her voice kills me (or as the kids might say - slays). I have put up a live version of my fave Demi song right now, lay some cushions on the floor when before you listen to it, it will knock you out. 'Stone Cold' is about trying to be happy for a lost love who is moving on, we have all had some degree of that. Her gut wrenching vocals emphasize the pain of that, the quiet moments resemble the moments of quiet reflection someone would have when dealing with loss. I may be babbling now, I just adore this song.

Ariana Grande - Zero To Hero

Okay, stay with me. There wasn't a single kid who didn't love the Muses in 'Hercules'. Their gospel style singing of Hercules' trials were special - a light hearted break from the drama of the movie. So, when I heard that Disney were releasing an album of covers by today's artists I was intrigued. Then I saw that Ariana was singing 'Zero To Hero' - one of the best Disney songs of all time - I had to give it a listen. Boy am I glad I did. It is beautiful, fun and makes me want to be better person. Okay maybe scratch that last bit, but this song is special and Ariana's voice is undeniably special - combine the two and we got a whole lot of special. Sit back, plug those earphones in if you don't want anyone else to hear and judge you, and just enjoy this Disney magic. And maybe, just maybe one day I can find my fellow four Muses and travel the world enlightening the youth of today. 

Three New Shows You Need In Your Life

Dear friend, once again I am here to help you in ways you never knew you needed. I have discovered three new television shows, I have watched them and now I shall review them - so you don't have to. First of all I must admit for all three of the TV shows I am about to mention, the main reason I watched them is because of the leading ladies. Step forward Jane Lynch, America Ferrera and Eva Longoria, also known as Sue Sylvester, Betty Suarez and Gabrielle Solis. These three ladies were responsible for some of the best TV characters this millennium. So lets get this underway, there are three new shows I need to talk about. 

Angel From Hell

The description of this show could be an eye roller. It doesn't have a very modern or really enticing premise - I didn't even watch it until its second week out. I am so glad that I did watch it though. I'll try and quickly describe what it's about in 140 characters or less. Basically Jane Lynch plays a guardian angel, like a legit one (not just someone who looks out for someone, she is an angel!), who has a slight issue with the old booze. She has been tasked with looking after a dermatologist called Allison as she struggles with balancing work life, love life and a social life. It is a light hearted comedy with some great one liners and the impeccable comedy timing of Ms Lynch. The supporting cast really sell this show for me aswell, mainly Allison's brother Brad - he is hilarious. This is a smartly written show, and at the end of the day when did you last watch a 22 minute comedy show with a supernatural element that was good since 'Mork and Mindy'?!

Superstore

I am a major fan of the show 'Trollied' on SkyOne in the UK, so of course you point out to me that there is an american version starring America Ferrera I am there. America is one of those actresses that come once in a hundred shows - she is pure talent. She gets to my heart with a simple facial expression, she can go from making me laugh out loud to straight up sobbing. My first memory of her affecting me was in the pilot episode of 'Ugly Betty' where she is asked to stand in for a model during a photoshoot in a latex outfit and they all take the piss out of her, I cried so hard. Anyway this isn't an America Ferrera appreciation post (not to self: future post idea - America the Beautiful? Think of a better title), I am here to talk about 'Superstore'.
It is a very similar premise to 'Trollied' where it is a sitcom based in a, wait for it, superstore. With the ability to include many different character types it is the perfect setting, where the lazy meet the headstrong, where the smart meet the dumb and where the slackers meet the hard workers.  The supporting cast is stellar, my favourite been Dina. I have met many a Dina in my retail experience, the woman who cares to much about the rules and protecting the integrity of the business she works for - but she is hilarious. I hope this doesn't fall for the one season curse that a lot of comedies are these days, this has room to grow and expand with never ending storylines. I am going to say it - this could be our new 'The Office US'.

Telenovela

Having never watched a real telenovela in my entire life, I was a bit apprehensive to watch this. Would I get the references? Turns out it doesn't matter. What I understand about telenovelas are that they are very over the top, dramatic, spanish speaking soap operas, this show hits the nail on the head then when it comes to mocking that. It stars Eva as a telenovela actress, it is a behind the scenes comedy -  much in the same way as '30 Rock' mocked the behind the scenes of a variety show.
It is a silly comedy, and I mean that in the best way possible. The comedy is very simple and almost slap stick, you can see some jokes coming a mile away but you still chuckle when the cast expertly executes them. It is packed with embarrassing moments and I am a huge fan of awkward comedy.
The cast has delivered in every episode, some of the moments can seem ripped from a Disney Channel comedy and really juvenile but that is isn't a bad thing necessarily. I think over time it will mature, it will find its feet and I am honestly really happy to see a latino led comedy on prime time TV. And Eva is back!! Always the underrated actress on 'Desperate Housewives'/

My 2015 TV Characters - The Definitive 12

I watch a lot of television, and when I say a lot times what you consider a lot by ten. My lack of social life allows me to fill my TV needs. I get to live vicariously as a Washington fixer or a Manhattan OBGYN. I get to watch people fall in love, fall apart, kill other people. So, as I do I have compiled a list of my favourite TV characters so you don't have to.

Leslie Knope - Parks and Recreation
What list of amazing television characters wouldn't include Leslie Knope?! First of all the talented and stunning Amy Poehler plays her. Leslie is strong, a leader, a friend, a loving wife and one person I would want in my corner all the time. I think we could benefit by being a little more Knope. She is the epitome of a good person. If you can't be inspired by Leslie then you are dead on the inside.

Cookie Lyon - Empire
I made the wise life choice to binge watch the entire first season of 'Empire' in a day earlier this year. It is so so good. It is basically a soap opera with a huge budget. From the storylines to the fashion to the music to the guest stars it is everything you need from a TV show. And the shining peak of this great TV show is Cookie Lyon. Played by Taraji P. Henson. She is head strong, the matriarch and sassy to boot. I would cower in the corner if I ever got on the wrong side of her.

Mindy Lahiri - The Mindy Project
I had the tough choice between Mindy and Morgan. Morgan is the hilarious side kick to Mindy, he is ride or die for her, beyond loyal and may have slight stalker tendencies. However, I went with Mindy. She makes me laugh, makes me cry and more often then I would like to admit, I see my personality sometimes sneak through when watching her. Her high opinion of herself is what I love the most about her, her self delusion is often seeing her comparing herself to celebrities with whom she has nothing in common with in real life.

Sheldon Cooper - The Big Bang Theory
In nine years we haven't seen a lot of growth with this character, but in the last season they have catapulted this character's humanity. From the travesty that was the Amy and Sheldon break up of season 8, we saw a more softer side of Sheldon. For the first time we saw him hurt from an actual human experience we can all relate to. And then thankfully the gods heard my cries and Amy and Sheldon got back together!! And then they did it!! IT!! It was so beautifully shown to us, it made us smile instead of want to die if our parents were in the room.

Olivia Benson - Law & Order: Special Victim's Unit
Hands down one of the strongest female characters ever to be birthed on American television. Actually take out the word 'female' and the sentence still stands. She takes no shit from anybody and always fights on the side of good. She has had her own personal battles to contend with but always come out fighting. Plus she is now a mother, the head of the team and still rocks a flawless bob.

Titus Andromedon - Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt
Every character on this show is great; but it is Titus and Lillian that keeps me coming back for more, Titus just edges out Lillian (maybe because he has more screen time). He is a loveable, eccentric, roommate to Kimmy. He cares about the welfare of others whilst finding any opportunity to further his flailing entertainment career. Favourite moment hands down is 'Pinot Noir' - I am not even going to explain why, if you know then you know why, and if you don't go and find out and enrich your life - then thank me in the form of Jack Daniels.

Mellie Grant - Scandal 
My number one choice for the most underrated TV character of the last few years. Yes, in past seasons she pissed me off but my days when she is not standing next to the President she has truly come in to her own. She still does some questionable things (namely the jurors), but when she is fighting the good fight she is powerful, she is electric and she makes everyone shut up and listen without even asking them. If I could direct you to her filibuster moment in season 4 then you will see exactly what I mean.

Annalise Keating - How to Get Away with Murder
This show seriously demands your attention. Blink and you miss something important. Normally I can get bored by these type of shows, I have the attention span of a gnat. But its the work of Viola Davies that keeps me hooked, her acting in this is sublime and I am not the only one who think so (how you enjoying that Emmy Viola?). I don't agree with her actions a lot of the time but god knows if I ever 'accidentally' kill someone I would run to her in a minute.

Chanel Oberlin - Scream Queens
I will admit that I haven't seen all of the episodes, but I don't need to to pick a star. And Chanel is my star. She is a bitch, and I am not saying anything you wouldn't find in any character description of her. I love a bitch! She is cold as ice with the most amazing closet. If I had that closet I would never have come out (lame attempt at gay humour - but it is that spectacular).

Ilana Wexler & Abbi Abrams - Broad City
I couldn't pick one, it is Sophie's choice. They basically complete each other, where one tails off the other picks them up. They have this beautiful friendship, both too self reliant and perfectly supportive. I can't imagine that in real life these friendships exist. They seem to completely cut off other aspects of their life - but I still love it and am seriously jealous of it. I can't sell this show enough, I absolutely love it and I need everyone in the vicinity to watch it so I can finally talk out loud about it.

Olivia Pope -  Scandal
I love this woman. She is a hero. She is a villain. She is a lover, a friend. She is a gladiator. She makes me want to be a better person whilst also making me realise I don't want to be anything like her - she has been through some shit and has made awful decisions. She is perfectly flawed, she can help someone make the best decisions for their future yet she can't seem to do it for herself. She follows her heart and it often leads her down a dark path. One thing that she does which I strive to do is create the perfect speech, I want my moment - I need my moment.