'Watch What Crappens' co-host Ben Mandelker unpacks 'RHONJ' finale and gives us all his Bravo hot takes | FULL INTERVIEW
Aug 13, 2024
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Ben Mandelker, co-host of 'Watch What Crappens,' shares his keen insights on Bravo and the emotional finale of 'The Real Housewives of New Jersey.' He jokes about the nostalgia of hairstyles while diving into the chaotic dynamics and shifting loyalties of the cast. Mandelker critiques a controversial reality star's behavior and discusses how perceptions change over time. The conversation also highlights memorable character arcs and the show's impact, ranking Bravo's iconic housewives with humor and passion.
The finale of 'RHONJ' conveyed an impending closure, with characters showing unusual restraint and an urgent fight for season continuation.
The podcast explored the shifting dynamics of reality TV narratives, particularly focusing on authenticity versus manufactured drama in cast interactions.
Deep dives
The Significance of the New Jersey Finale
The New Jersey season finale stood out for its sense of finality, with cast members seemingly aware that it may mark the end of their series journey. The lack of traditional celebratory events after the finale, such as a finale party or vacation, contributed to this sentiment. Some characters, like Melissa, displayed more restraint and were not engaged in the usual confrontations, indicating a shift in dynamics. This perceived urgency among cast members to fight for their places in a potential next season was palpable, impacting the overall tone of the episode.
Character Dynamics and Emotional Revelations
The complexities of the relationships among the cast were embodied in moments of raw honesty and conflict. Melissa’s blunt remarks about her strained relationship with Teresa showed a shift from previous seasons, where she aimed to maintain family harmony. Jackie’s unexpected admission during a heated discussion showcased the chaotic yet revealing nature of the group's interactions, with her struggle to navigate her loyalties becoming increasingly apparent. The podcast highlighted how characters like Teresa utilized various strategies, such as public drama, to distract from their own problematic actions.
Patterns in Reality Show Narratives
The conversation emphasized the evolving narrative structures within reality television, particularly regarding how certain cast members handle personal crises. Kyle Richards' shifting portrayal of openness and privacy drew comparisons with her past behavior on the show, leading to discussions about accountability. Viewers noted the disparity between her public persona and private issues, expressing a desire for genuine transparency. This inconsistency highlights a broader trend in reality TV where cast members often grapple with portraying their lives amidst manufactured drama.
Diverse Perspectives on Future Seasons
As discussions moved toward upcoming seasons, varied opinions emerged on fan reactions and production approaches across different franchises. There's a prevailing curiosity about how Bravo will navigate its casting and storytelling choices, particularly with franchises like Salt Lake City and New York. While some expressed optimism about returning favorites like Dolores, others showed skepticism toward new cast dynamics that might stray from the franchise's roots. This conversation reflected fans' desire for authenticity and entertainment value, emphasizing that connections and character arcs significantly impact viewer engagement.
Ben Mandelker from the popular "Watch What Crappens" podcast stopped by the Page Six studio to share his hot takes on Bravo and share his thoughts on "The Real Housewives of New Jersey" finale and future. Check out the full unedited interview!