By Nicole C. RichardsonReality shows are taking over networks on cable TV. With shows like Preachers of LA, Mary Mary and Thicker Than Water, it makes one wonder if Christians should really allow millions of viewers into the backseat of their lives. When Mary Mary premiered on the Oxygen network, I must admit I was taken aback by their representation. The tempers, diva-like attitudes and constant quarrels was a turnoff. Now I do understand that every family goes through their own kind of drama but mostly this is done behind closed curtains. But the portrayal of Mary Mary was not what I was expecting from the show. I thought we'd see this gospel-duo go through some ups and downs with their music career not invite viewers into their personal family affairs. It had me contemplate whether I wanted to purchase their next album. I was just appalled by the lack of character that I really didn't keep up with the show. | Then there's the controversial show, Preachers of LA. My first impression was not how other's criticized the preachers from showboating their lavish lifestyle. I did not get distracted by that because I believe that when you are doing the work of the Lord, he will reward you openly. However, seeing the life of a preacher and what they go through on a daily basis is what I found to be quite intriguing. Aside from the single woman looking to date the preacher to the married couples voicing their opinions on relationships other than their own, Preachers of LA did impart a couple of scenes where they invited people to accept Christ as their savior. I also enjoyed the fact that the show compiled a cast of diverse preachers with their own preaching styles and how they choose to spread the Gospel to others. I didn't find the show to be misleading, and the drama was not as intense as other reality TV shows. What I will say is that I was | presently surprised with Bravo's show Thicker than Water. What makes me want to watch this show is their candidness on real subject matters like forgiveness, sex, finance, and religious values. Although the Tankard family is loaded with cash, I believe they are a family that many can relate to. They don't try to be anything other than themselves. Still, with the dynamics of the different Christian reality TV shows, I'm still on the fence to whether Christians should sign with these major networks and millions of viewers to peer into their private lives. What's the stakes of being too transparent on TV and is the version of yourself you want the world to see? It's one thing to show how Christ affects your life that in turn may inspire someone to get to know him, and it's another thing to turn on the TV and catch some of the foolishness that takes place on shows like these. I feel that if these shows truly had a message and the characters represent the reflection of a Christian life then it wouldn't be all that bad. So what's your opinion? Do you feel that these Christians are keeping it too real or are they inspiring people to want to draw closer to the love of Christ. Nicole C. Richardson is a copy editor and writer for Envisage Productions. She is also a poet, creative writer and a film maker. You can reach Nicole @ [email protected] |