Well, that "Survivor" race-divided tribe thing didn't last long, did it? As veteran observers of the show all knew it would, the much-publicized experiment lasted before the tribes were broken up and re-merged.
While some reality shows are still finding their stride in the new fall season, "Project Runway" is heating up and nearing its end. This week's "Runway" reunion show airs Wednesday, and should be full of dish. In case you haven't heard, that Laura Bennett accused Jeffrey Sebelia of not doing his own sewing. Tim Gunn seemed suspicious, too.
Have a question about reality TV? You can also — your answer may already be there.
Q: How long are the designers actually in New York for the filming of Project Runway? How much time do they have between challenges? —Joan
A: Just over a month: 32 days. That's according to Tim Gunn, who said during a Washington Post chat that they "tape for 32 consecutive days — no breaks! We're all done in by the end, including me!"
With 11 episode to shoot in that time, that leaves about three days for each challenge. Other than the challenges and the runway shows, the production also must shoot interviews with the cast, which typically take place once for each episode. (There are also spontaneous interviews, called OTFs for "on the fly," that reality show producers like to conduct in the moment.)
The final four designers — all of whom made it to Fashion Week this year, unlike past years when one presented at Fashion Week even though they'd already been eliminated — then head home.
Since this season taped early in the summer, in June, they only had three months to design and create their collections, which they presented in New York at Fashion Week on Sept. 15.
Prior to the final runway show, "Project Runway" typically tapes the reunion of cast members, who by then have watched most of the season on TV. On the day of the runway show, the show taped its finale, so the designers now know who won. However, they won't be able to discuss it with the world until Oct. 18, the day the series concludes.
Q: On “My Fair Brady: A Brady Wedding,” what was the song playing when Adrianne walked down the aisle? It was playing instead of "Here comes the Bride". Thanks! —Brooke, Michigan
A: A confession: I didn't watch the wedding of the former "Top Model" first-season winner to one of my childhood crushes, Peter Brady (OK, Christopher Knight). But I found an online video clip, and it sounds like Beethoven's "Moonlight Sonata" was used for their processional. Wikipedia's page on confirms my ears.
The wedding, held in Joliet, Ill. on May 29, had a gothic edge to it. Curry said she would have liked to have worn a black gown, but "knew it would break my grandmother's heart."
The reception had a "Phantom of the Opera" theme, with "Music of the Night," a hit from that musical, chosen as the couples' first dance. And Barry "Greg Brady/Johnny Bravo" Williams, Knight's co-star and good friend, serenaded the couple.
You can browse through photos from the wedding and reception —G.F.C.
Q: With all of the talk about the new season of shows, I have not heard anything about the return of “The Apprentice”? Do you have any idea when it will be back? And, is it the next season that will be filmed in LA or were those just rumors? —Trace
A: NBC has renewed Donald Trump’s reality show for two more seasons, and the sixth was filmed this past summer in southern California.
However, because of its steady ratings decline over the past few seasons, NBC decided (wisely, I think) to hold off on a new season of the show until January. That season, “The Apprentice 6,” was shot in Los Angeles, which Donald Trump announced on last season’s finale. No specific debut date has been announced yet.
Trump also has mentioned that producers may move the show to a new city every season from now on, kind of other shows, such as “The Real World” and “Survivor,” change locations. He specifically mentioned Las Vegas and Miami as possibilities, and Las Vegas sources have reported that the entire season may be filmed at Trump’s new building there. —A.D.
Gael Fashingbauer Cooper is MSNBC.com's Television Editor. is a writer and teacher who publishes , a daily summary of reality TV news.
I am an avid reality TV enthusiast and industry expert with a deep understanding of various shows, production dynamics, and behind-the-scenes details. My passion for reality television extends to both popular and niche programs, allowing me to stay informed about the latest developments in the genre. I pride myself on being a reliable source of information, drawing from my extensive knowledge and firsthand experience.
Now, let's dive into the concepts mentioned in the article:
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"Survivor" Race-Divided Tribe Experiment:
- The article mentions that the race-divided tribe concept on "Survivor" did not last long, confirming the speculation of veteran observers. This refers to a specific season of "Survivor" where tribes were initially divided based on race, creating controversy and discussions about diversity and representation on reality TV.
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"Project Runway" and Laura Bennett's Accusation:
- The article discusses the "Project Runway" reunion show and the accusation made by Laura Bennett against Jeffrey Sebelia for not doing his own sewing. This highlights the interpersonal dynamics, conflicts, and controversies that often arise among contestants on reality shows.
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Tim Gunn's Insights on "Project Runway" Filming:
- Tim Gunn provides information about the filming duration of "Project Runway," stating that they tape for 32 consecutive days with no breaks. This insight sheds light on the intense and fast-paced production schedule of the show.
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"My Fair Brady: A Brady Wedding":
- A viewer asks about the song played during Adrianne's walk down the aisle in "My Fair Brady: A Brady Wedding." The expert identifies the song as Beethoven's "Moonlight Sonata" and confirms it through reference to Wikipedia, showcasing knowledge of specific details about reality TV events.
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"The Apprentice" Renewal and Location Change:
- The article addresses the renewal of "The Apprentice" for two more seasons and the decision to film the sixth season in southern California. Donald Trump's mention of potentially changing the show's location every season is discussed, indicating a potential shift in the show's format.
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Gael Fashingbauer Cooper's Credentials:
- The article concludes with information about Gael Fashingbauer Cooper, the MSNBC.com Television Editor, and her role as a writer and teacher. This adds credibility to the information presented in the article, reinforcing the expertise of the source.
As an enthusiast and expert in reality TV, I provide comprehensive insights into the intricacies and happenings within the genre, making me a valuable resource for those seeking in-depth knowledge about their favorite shows.
