Everyone knows that reality TV has slowly but surely shaped dating cultural norms beyond belief. From perverted guidos lookin’ to smush, to a bachelor’s final rose ceremony – everybody’s searching for love in one way or another.
Personally, my go-to reality dating show fix is Bravo’s hit docu-series, “The Millionaire Matchmaker.”
Let me give you the rundown. Most reality dating shows turn trashy because there are no real applicant standards, so basically anyone and their dog can apply.
Generally, this works out nicely for the show’s producers because they prefer girls who will bring the most drama (which leads to higher show ratings). I wouldn’t be surprised if they even encourage anyone who has had a restraining order, drinking problem, boob job, or uses the word “smush” on a regular basis. I mean, obviously they’re the ones looking for true, genuine, non-fame-seeking love . . . right?
And so I fell in love with “The Millionaire Matchmaker.” Executive Producer Patti Stanger just finished her show’s fourth season and has topped the charts with viewership. Stanger founded her company, The Millionaire’s Club, in 2000, which then opened the door for a show.
She realized that wealthy, upscale men don’t have the time to find dateable, sophisticated women who aren’t gold diggers. Her solution: accept women’s dating applications from all over the world, aged 21 and older, and personally find these men their perfect match. The Millionaire Club’s mission reads, “Where successful men come to meet their beautiful and intelligent wives or girlfriends.”
The show features various blind dates that Stanger and her team set up for their millionaires after careful contemplation. However, Stanger’s crude and outrageous language and personality are what make the show entertaining. When the applicants come in to interview, she has zero patience for anyone who can’t speak intelligently or dress appropriately. Calling them out is her favorite thing to do. The show follows the couple on their date and documents each person’s conference with Patti during the aftermath and possible second-date process.
Even when dealing with prestigious and ultra-successful millionaires, Stanger bites her tongue for no one. She is not afraid to tell them they need to change their ugly hairstyle or get an attitude adjustment. Recently featured on the show were Albie and Chris Manzo, sons of Caroline from “The Real Housewives of New Jersey.” Stanger claimed the momma’s boys needed to “cut the umbilical cord” in order to find genuine girlfriends. Where tough love is concerned, Stanger’s got it goin’ on and proves reality TV can be classy, rather than trashy.
“The Millionaire Matchmaker” can be seen on Bravo at 7 p.m. on Tuesday nights.