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All Publicity is Good Publicity

All Publicity is Good Publicity

By Alexandra Lue, Intern

Yesterday when I went to Barnes & Noble, I stumbled across a book written by Snooki, one of the cast members of the MTV reality show “Jersey Shore.” I was shocked that Snooki, who became famous for being drunk-punched in the face at a bar, could be an author of a book. Now if you haven’t tuned in, Jersey Shore is about several young adults (for the lack of a better word), who reside in a house at the Jersey Shore for the summer and pride themselves on being the self-proclaimed “Guidos” and “Guidettes.” My friends and I watch the show, merely for entertainment purposes, but there are fans that have taken on their lifestyle completely. The show has trademarked the term “GTL” (gym, tan, laundry), which is their daily routine other than random “hook ups”, and “fist pumping.”It has also stirred up much controversy and opposition in the Italian-American community, claiming that the show exploits and bashes their ethnicity.

Every episode involves one of the housemates either getting into physical altercations, drinking too much and eventually urinating or vomiting on TV, or hitting the clubs in search for a partner to take home for the night. It’s difficult to think anyone would consider one of them a role model, but I guess that any publicity is good publicity. The cast members, Pauly D, Mike aka “The Situation,” Vinny, Ronnie, Jenni aka “Jwoww,” Sammi, and Nicole aka “Snooki,” have quickly developed into celebrities.  People are obsessed with the TV reality stars, and they are often offered high wages to make appearances at parties and events nationwide.  They have even ventured out into their own businesses, like Snooki’s book and house slippers brand, or Jwoww’s clothing line and plastic surgery tip website,  and there is talk about spin offs, and workout videos.

Some might accuse MTV of exploiting the cast, but I think that the ratings will show that they are very popular in demand. Jersey Shore is now in the third season, and they also released a movie.  It is the age of reality TV. There is pretty much a reality show for anything and everything. It’s the best way to promote your business.  I think it’s safe to say that most people never heard of Kim Kardashian until she had a hit reality show, and now she has a perfume, clothing line, and online shoe store.  The Jersey Shore cast better start up any business they can dream of before their fifteen minutes is up.

1 Comment
  • Charisse

    February 8, 2011 at 2:52 pm Reply

    Great article. Sounds like author has that cast of characters pegged.

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