OWN has really found a gem in these behind-the-scene shows. Viewers love to see people in their natural element being REAL, making each and every one of them so relatable. No longer is it a polished piece we are watching. We have the opportunity to view comedy and drama in the purest form. We walk away thinking, “I can totally relate” or “I could totally hang out with that person”. No longer are they stars…this is how they become friends. Okay I know that sounds weird but you know what I mean. Not in the creepy way but in the “I want you to succeed and I care” way.
The show began with the Time Magazine critic parody. As awesome as that piece was, it shocks me that Ro’s team pulled it off in only about an hour. AMAZINGLY talented! Caesar (yes, of “Up & Down with Caesar”) walked us through the costume panic as the staff frantically prepared for their debut. All hands were on deck and I must admit it still is one of my favorites. If you didn’t see it, take a look. (It is the only video in the article.)
We were then treated to the adorable Ms. Abby, Rosie’s long-time producer and friend Bobby Pearce’s dog. With clips of him rolling her around in a bag so her feet don’t touch the ground, I was dying. Finally, there is someone as neurotic as I am about their pup. I am not as crazy as when I was younger, but I do have friends in high school that actually came to my dog’s birthday party and even wore hats for the photos. Reflecting back, I am certain they all thought I was crazy. However, I never did this!
But one thing Bobby loves as much as his dear Abby is COSTUMES! From the beginning Halloween was on his mind. Flying in costumes for the staff, he couldn’t help but get excited. Rosie was to be Little Bo Peep with shirtless Broadway Boys as sheep. Of course…what does this call for? “Another parody! Another parody, really? Like I get it about the reporter who gave a good review. I get the first day because that’s what you’re expecting. But see this is an example of going off the rails,” Lisa Erspamer shared. You are so right Lisa but that is exactly why we love Rosie!
Rosie has so many talents. She really needs 3 shows on OWN: 1. The Rosie Show; 2. a variety show during the holidays where she can sing and dance, have special guests, comedy skits; and 3. A GAME SHOW! Seriously…OWN is really missing out here. Is there any way to clone her?
Bringing Rosie to Chicago was such a great move. However she acquired something new in the move that made her totally grossed out the viewers! Rosie got allergies. Now it didn’t look that bad on camera but I have stood next to someone who has done this and let me tell you…it is SOOO disgusting. But almost in the “I can’t look away” way. I was so impressed that the camera person was able to remain silent. You have to see this.
Of course her allergies led to a musical number. It was hilarious and who knew there were so many talented people on her staff. Now they need a name…like the ROsettes (like the Rockettes) or ROpremes. Okay so those aren’t any good. We totally need to think about the name.
After a few bits on the writers and the staff’s cravings for musical numbers, we got to one of my favorite stories – how Hollee became the show’s announcer. I just love her. She is completely infectious. Take a look at her first appearance and her big break! Although they said the job would take her through the end of 2011, I couldn’t help but notice she was still there and apparently it means she is sticking around because truthfully….Hollee is family now. Take a look at the start of her journey. (video clips on next page)
Her first appearance!
Her big break!
The artist spotlight went to Boys II Men. I can’t believe it has been 20 years since they got together. I feel SOOO old now. Even in the rehearsal clips they sounded remarkable. Check them out!