It's not a criticism, it's an observation.
Hooked on bull riding
Mike Cox

My friend Debbie loves American Idol. I told her the whole idea capitalizes on our need to see others embarrass themselves. Reality TV is the train wreck we can't turn away from; the carnival freak show we can view in private. She says I shouldn't make judgments about something I won't watch. My good sense doesn't allow me to tune in.

As the list of reality TV programs grows larger and more asinine, we as a country are losing some of ourselves in each absurd, choreographed episode. I wonder if other planets are observing and ridiculing our need to watch such trash.

And then... I hap-

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Beast.m Ita isst ear G odsend. Like reruns or a David Caruso film festival, this show gives a new dimension to unintentional comedy.

Ty Murray is a rodeo legend; a no nonsense man's man. I'm not sure who convinced him this was a good idea, but he is obviously sincere. The participants are taught to ride in a safe and positive manner. The bulls aren't top level buckers; more like single A. But they are still real live bulls, and they do bounce around.

The celebrities are straight from an episode of Where are They Now? We have a typical collection of has- beens and wannabes, former sports stars and little known celebrities, plus offspring of famous people. Imagine a guest list of people not quite popular

enough for Dancing With

The Stars but with an extra helping of testosterone.

Leif Garrett was the first to quit. If the producers had noticed one of his teen glamour photos, they never would have invited him. Stephen Baldwin and Francesco Quinn were hurt but vowed to remain with the group until the finale, a show in Nashville.

Vanilla Ice is representin'. He uses his real name but no one recognizes him unless Vanilla Ice is added at the bottom of the screen. He performed Ice Ice Baby in one of the camaraderie scenes. Dan Nitro Clark, a former American Gladiator, and Rocket Ismail provided choreography. We now know Ice still has it, and not all black guys can dance.

Cowboy Kenny Bartram, a motocross rider, and Ultimate Fighter Josh Haynes provide macho vibes and sensitive story lines. Jonny Fairplay is a reality TV star. The genre is now producing its own celebrities. What a great country. Mr. Fairplay seems to be the Chosen One who will have the major story line.

As the show progresses, the pressure intensifies. There is mucho male bonding in bars and showing concern for other riders and trying to mask that look of bewilderment as each celebrity tries to piece together the events that led him to be talked into riding live bulls on camera.

The climax will be at a rodeo in Nashville, where all surviving riders will try to stay aboard a watered down bull for eight seconds. The drama is building, and I'm checking the TV schedule. Maybe an apology to Debbie is in order.