It took two years but a full episode of George Smith’s black gay reality series “Tha Life Atlanta” has finally debuted for the world to see. If you’ll remember, a couple years ago an extended teaser trailer dropped on YouTube that we pretty much cringed at from beginning to end. It was pretty bad and unintentionally tried to sell to us that the men featured were “down low” and masculine, neither was true.
So now, after some re-casting, George Smith attempts to reboot the buzz with a new full episode.
Admittedly, I’m the only black gay man in the country that doesn’t watch ANY reality series so it was tough for me to critique this episode.
At the start of the episode we’re introduced to cast members: Chuck, Alex, Brodney, Arden, Marcel, Dean, Mehran (aka gay porn star King B) and the grandfather of them all, producer George Smith himself. They’re a pretty good looking and diverse group of guys of varying ages and backgrounds, a much better mix than the group we were introduced to two years ago.
As for the story, its the typical black gay lifestyle mess that you’d expect: Clubbing, looking for a boyfriend, sex, living on the down low, cheating on lovers, finding tighter low cut tees to show off tattoos, more clubbing, taking off clothes, messy fights/arguments over a man, Porn Stars & more clubbing. Once I took a deep breath and accepted that this is what 95% of gay men are interested in, I realized that George Smith may actually be on to something here. This show is not much different than the snippets of reality shows that I see featuring black women doing the exact same things.
THA LIFE (2013) – FULL EPISODE #1
SCREENSHOTS
Like most mainstream reality shows, this shit is full of stereotypical fuckery (with exception that its focused around a bunch of ATL butch queens). Regardless, this hot mess of a production is at the very least.. well done (on a technical scale) and features all the trifling ingredients of making a entertaining/successful reality series. So congrats to Ms.George Hill in building a stronger presence of SGL men of color in the realm of reality ratchetness. Hopefully this project will further open the door for less cliche coonery in future LGBT reality productions.
“Like most mainstream reality shows, this shit is full of stereotypical fuckery (with exception that its focused around a bunch of ATL butch queens).”……….couldn’t have said it any better!!!!!!
I’ve actually been waiting for 2 days for you to review this lol. You liked it a lot more than I thought you guys would, but I guess good production goes a long way. I think it’s ok. A vast improvement from the trailer a few years ago. The good for me: Production, some of the stories were interesting. The bad: Way too many characters and its just too long. Who gonna watch all of that in one sitting? But I guess that helps the hit count. It also comes off as a vanity project to me.
Yeah I took it in the context of what it was…I don’t like reality at all so i could have easily give it only One Star for that reason. But once I thought about the audience that this is targeting (the people that actually like those shows) I decided to be non-biased. Having said that, it was a pretty decent attempt from a first time filmmaker without a VH1 budget behind him.
To not have a VH1 budget it actually looks and sounds better than a lot of their reality shows.
“It would be nice if this series took a more non-stereotypical take on the lives of Black gay men”… Nick
This observation is exactly why I think it’s an error to use the “label” gay on an individual or a supposed “community”. It’s political boxing on one hand and the benefits from that are understood. But on the other hand it allows for stereotypes to be “SOLD”as if this is what black gay men are all about.
But who can knock George’s hustle in a capitalistic society?
Unfortunately the stereotypes sell. And anything other than that would be boring to most viewers. And you have to ask if anyone who falls into the NON-STEREOTYPICAL black gay male would participate in showcasing their lives and activities with their OWN show. And a show with VISIBLE characters.
We don’t SEE Nick or Ocky for practical reasons.
What would be the motive ,if you are just a man who wants to be viewed and appreciated as ” normal”, a regular. You’re no different than anyone else… Right? Isn’t this the premise of the gay movement ? We are just just like the rest of them?
The caricatures sell. And those that aren’t stereotypical have nothing to “sell”. Unless its just the fact that they have sex with the same sex yet look and act like everyone else. But blah blah they’ll say. We’ve all seen that story via JL King and Oprah. And it’s not interesting enough to be put on display anymore. America is over it. And women of all races don’t like seeing it. “Normal” don’t make appointments with a “reality” show.
Isn’t that the goal if the “discreet masculine male” ? To be normalized especially if you’re not being deceitful to anyone??
Or are we really seeking ATENTION which makes no sense if we really want to be treated like other “normal” human beings.
If the labels are what’s getting us “misrepresented” stop supporting the organizations that exploit the use of labels for political or financial gain. You can’t have the best of both worlds.
A STRONG NORMAL LOOKING AND ACTING black male that doesn’t have a relationship with a BALL does nothing for ratings. The threat that it poses is too real for mainstream to stomach.
And isn’t it too much to ask truly SKILLED black audio and visual technicians to perpetuate stereotypes?
Exactly why whites are in the position and all too eager to do so. And getting PAID!
While I agree with a lot of this we need to be careful with language that implies the lives some men lead should be kept under wraps or pushed under the rug. Not much of this show featured what my everyday life is like but then again, seeing an accurate depiction of that would be boring. So while I wish the other side of the coin was shown as well, I’m not saying that this guy shouldn’t be making this show or others like it. I sent this video to one of my friends and he said he could relate to a LOT of it…so the “stereotypes” are not fiction, they exist in nature.
It all comes down to people who actually want to tell the atypical gay stories coming out and doing it. Fortunately we have guys like Deondray Gosset, Quincy LeNear, Darius Clarke Monroe and Lamont Pierre steeping up the the challenge. But its up to the audiences to support them with their wallets, not just our mouths, in order for us to have more of the content we desire.
You’re right! Which leads me to this out of bounds thought.
When the closest thing we have to the convening of masculine black gay men is the “Blatino Awards”, there is a problem.
Why doesn’t someone propose to do it big like the WHITE ELITE AND DISCREET gay men at the Bohemian Grove? I’m trying to be funny but I’m half serious.
Instead black gay masculine elite are all divided up into these “Greek” fraternities. We all know what time it is with at least 50% of the members of all black fraternities.lol
And not to mention half of these pastors…
Is it too much to ask for elite masculine black gay men to unite? Form your own images outside of porn.
I agree however lets be real, the gay dudes on this show are normal. Being OUT, fabulous and fem is still normal, it just may not be normal for us or your normal.
I don’t view them as being less than, I am just tired of the same BS stereotypical caricatures being displayed on TV over and over again.
Enough of this shit already.
This was pretty entertaining, but I wish they didn’t keep shining a spotlight up that one guy’s huge nostrils.
They could have edited it better: why do we randomly flash back to George leaving Houston? If they started with George leaving Houston, coming to Atlanta, then showing how he met some of the guys, they would have had a coherent narrative. As it was, it was basically a series of vignettes about random guys in ATL.
And why do we have so many characters? What is their connection to one another? I like that some of the guys have careers, but the ones they picked to show are random. I would guess that the main characters are George, the couple in the open relationship, the ex-porn star, and the counselor. But other than George and the ex-porn actor, I don’t have a sense why they would ever be in each others’ circles other than being black, gay, and vaguely masculine.
I guess the $15-20K gala will be in the next episode? Or the season finale, I guess, if it ever comes to that. Overall, it’s something I’d watch again, despite the flaws.
“As it was, it was basically a series of vignettes about random guys in ATL.”
My sentiments exactly. I had no idea what the show generally is about because I couldn’t follow everyone. I just took each scene as an entirely new story and was mildly entertained.
I thoroughly enjoyed this show!
It showed a diverse group of men. Different ages, different stories.
I want to bring up the comment you said about something “non-stereotypical”. The thing that many filmmakers or reality show producers for that matter only tell stories that they know.
Tyler Perry has consistently received backlash for the stories that he tells. But he can only tell stories that he knows. Just like many other Caucasian filmmakers tell their own stories with other white people.
This may be what George Smith knows about and is familiar with.
I would never put it on his shoulders to show us something different if this is what he knows.
I look forward to seeing what comes next.
QUESTION: Being honest, are there any you discreet and/or closeted gay men out there that see this video and kinda feel envious or jealous of their lives?
The men in the show seem to live their gay lives open and honestly, nipple rings and all.
Not all of you live in “Gay Meccas” but in smaller communities…so is this a lifestyle you kinda desire on the low?
Personally I only envy the “freedom”. Or “perceived freedom” . Because once you go that route if you decide to change things up its going to be that much harder. A complete overhaul. I prefer to leave my options open as comfortably as possible.
Not to mention that life comes with a price. All the antics I’ve seen in the “trailer” only. Saving the full episode for when I get home. I don’t miss being anywhere near that. As I was partially exposed to it in a couple of relationships. You can have it!
I prefer to adopt the David Nd Jonathan paradigm when it comes to my same sex experience. It’s between ME AND HIM! Absolutely NO ONE needs to know. They wouldn’t “understand ” and could “threaten” what we built.
Men should treat each other as such. Each having his own kingdom perse. I’m no ones “queen”. And if I wanted to be close to a queen I wouldn’t choose someone with a penis.
And how can you realistically draw other people’s property lines when everyone at the “party” has a dick? That’s just way too much energy sifting through all the probabilities. I don’t have time for that. I’m not entertaining any “Waiting To Exhale” esque functions.
Ill pass on it all. Even though I do envy the openness. It’s not fair. But with good reason. I accept that!
Envious? Naaaah..
Although I feel like some of the experiences like these miiiiight be kinda fun to an extent (cuz I found this fairly entertaining, shame on me, smh..lol), I’m unsure if I’d delve deep into the stereotypical culture/lifestyle like this.
I might dip my feet in a lil bit, maybe even splash around, buuuut…you get my point.
Like I said, the show was decent. I’d watch this more than the shit on TV…depending on the next episodes content. I like what George did on his date with David, the whole journaling idea & the mentioning of the law of attraction. He was an ass for not handling things with Mehran correctly tho.
… And Brodney should see the “RED FLAGS” popping up with George. Brodney should recognize George for who and what he is, “A big ole HOE.” George hurt Mehan and he more than likely had sex with him too. George led Mehan on, and he invited him to the party. George is “grand and fabulous,” and it’s his SHOW. After seeing this, Brodney should drop George like a HOT POTATO because George is after nothing but Brodney’s cakes. He talks a good game, but after hurting Mehan the way he did – AND in front of Brodney – I could never respect him as someone committed to being in a serious committed relationship.
Wait…u mean David..? Brodney is the tall, light skinned guy who’s with Alex, the tall guy with the frohawk. David is the one workin @ the hair shop that’s dating George.
Exactly Andrew… I mean the guy that he is dating who works in the Hair Salon. His name is David. I will re-watch it and get all the names correct.
I’m discreet and I don’t desire that lifestyle at all. I had that lifestyle and don’t miss it. Even when I was in it I felt like an outsider, which interestingly enough attracted a lot of people because they wanted to know me, but couldn’t get to me. I just didn’t want to know them.
I even dated a guy who was so far out of the closet. He was a “dancer” and it was like everyone knew him, all the gays and trannies walking up to us on the street to talk to him and find out who I was. No thanks. I still got love for him though. Good guy..
Other than that, nah. They can keep that shit all the way over there. I like my business to be my business. My relationships to be mine. My life to be just that, mine. My life is not open. It’s private and personal and that’s how I life it.
I’m gonna say yes because their all comfortable in their skin for the most part. That aspect of it made me envious of them. They’re around many people who look and feel just as they do. The guy George is inspiring b/c he has his own. Stability, his own business and he is pursuing relationship – something I wish I could do and have but it is not time yet.
I don’t know how involved in “the gay scene/lifestyle” I will be but I do desire getting to the point where I could care less what someone thinks about me.
@Nick
No jealousy here my dude. I see this and I see drama/a headache. But I will say this though , Why is it that some naturally masculine gay men feel the need to conform to the gay flamboyantly feminine ideal? I think this happens a lot in this life style, actually I know it does. I recently had a class with one of those dudes in the video, and even though you could tell he liked guys, he wasn’t as flamboyant as he trying to be on this show.
Not at all! I envy the fact that they have a like minded ‘community’ of sorts, but THAT community isnt for me.
I think its because I dont consider most of these guys masc at all. I think the over exposure of str8 up queens has led us to look at a guy who isnt, as masculine. Not being a queen, or overly feminine, or less feminine that your friends, doesnt make you masculine. And thats okay too.
All that said, the show was a vast improvement over the trailer from 2 yrs ago, and as a closeted ratchet reality fan, I found it entertaining enough.
I actually was wondering what happened to this and I am glad that they finally put it together.As Black Gay Men we are sometimes are our own worst critics.I like this series it is entertaining,nothing more,nothing less.Sometimes we look for these shows to do too much and to represent too much.I don’t feel as if is stereotypical or that it somehow presents a caricature of black gay men.It is just one portrayal of that world,their world so I just take it for the entertainment value that it brings.Do it speak to me as a 40 something, bigger than average black gay male, no.However neither do most of these series or Blogs who seem to cater to one specific audience.
anthony it is like you were in my head, i had the same thoughts. I liked the show. It was entertainming and shows apart of a gay culture some of us may not be explosed to. I agree that show is showing people living thier lives and i dont see how that is a stereotype. As someone said there needs to be better cohesion in the storyline. For me, lighting, sound and editing was good. I hear people say “oh we need to have orginary gays on tv or on the web” but i ask myself who is that. The orginary gay man in atlanta is different from the one in jamaica, as oppose to pakistan and south africa. I see nothing entertaining about a “regular dude” who wakes up, take a jog, goes to work as a supervisor and then comes home and go to sleep. I find is strange that we like to blind ourselves to the fact the sex, conflict and desire aren’t at the core of all men. Lets just give support and help people grow. With all that being said, one of thing i would like to see removed from show is referring to being gay as a lifestyle. Gay is gay is gay. We need to watch the language we use. For me, calling gay as lifestyle is suggesting that its something you choose and change on a whim
Well…the life these guys in the show live is a Lifestyle…Being a part of the gay club scene, going to underwear parties, mingling with porn stars….that’s a lifestyle…merely being Gay isn’t a lifestyle but the style in which you life your gay becomes…a lifestyle. The problems with stereotypes arise when one particular lifestyle defines the whole. Many people see gay men and think they all live the SAME lifestyle of clubs, promiscuous sex, drag shows, vouging, queening out, living on the down low, etc
I hope the white filmmakers comment was said in jest lol. That’s simply not true. Lots of all/mostly minority film projects come out in superior quality. I just shot a film with an all minority production(minus the white sound designer) and it’s top quality. It’s not the crew, it’s the funding. I’m sure if all of the film makers had good dough they could make something of top quality production wise.
Its not always money, its skill level. I’ve seen some amazing stuff from people with no money and horrible stuff from people with big indie budgets. I rarely see black indie projects with good audio, visuals and acting. Especially black gay projects.
I’ll agree skill is also apart of it. My whole thing is that having white film makers doesn’t mean good quality. Trust me, they put out some mess too. You can go to black film festivals and see quality work from all black productions…as far as gay productions…that’s a completely different issue. I blame that more on the audience for not demanding/expecting more.
Agreed, I think it’s more of an gay audience issue. I have seen HUNDREDS of Indie Gay films (most of them for white audiences since we have so few which cater to black men..) and more than half of them are crap – with crappy production values and horribly bad actors (they make Tyler Perry look good on a bad day…) that being said, they are improving – greatly! I think the LGBTQ communities are starting to demand more, and each genre within our greater community is starting to expect it as well…
If this is the image George wants to wants to show to the world them I’m so glad O don’t live there anymore, there’s so much more to Atlanta that being a club queen, fashion queen & and gym queen. The saddest thing about this is the mentality behind the productions of the show, that being gay is a lifestyle, WILL BLACK GAY MEN EVER GET IT OUT OF THEIR HEADS THAT BEING GAY IS NOT A LIFESTYLE!!!!!! I’m still waiting for the masculine dudes to show up so far all there seemed to be were a bunch butch queens with George being the biggest queen of them all, if he for one minute thinks people are going to believe he came out about five years ago he’s delusional.
I agree. George is a flamin’ hot cheeto. Big muscle queen.
Mehran caught me off guard. I was ready to dislike him, but he is actually right IMO. I agree that George kind of lead him on, but when somebody say they just wanna be friends you need move on.
If George wanna call Brodney his boo after he just met him the Saturday before that’s his choice. That would not be someone I’d ever want to be with. He’s too old to still be playing the high school dating game. I saw red flags from the beginning when he was talking to that party planner.
Other than that, Dean and Chuck on some shit. Never heard of a relationship like that. It’s okay for Chuck to fuck other dudes but he just can’t get fucked. But Dean can’t fuck other dudes at all, but he can fuck females lmfao They need to stick a fork in that relationship cause Chuck giving up the cakes like McDonald’s Big Breakfast. He had them chocolate debbie cakes tooted up on that massage table. And I saw the way his legs were spread when he took it to the bedroom with that “massage” therapist. Aint fooling me homeboy
I’ve heard of ALL kinds of relationships. Some of them are doable. That’s what’s so funny about being “gay” you run into and see some of everything. I’ve seen ALL types of “ARRANGEMENTS.” Some of them are actually DOABLE. At first I was like, “nuhhh uhhhhn,” but then I realized how many people it takes to make up this world, and I was like “OOOOOO KKKKKKK.” So it’s like that huh… LOL
Call me old school then because I don’t get into “arrangements.” I’ll arrange some boxes for you in the living so you can pack your shit and GTFO. That’s the only arrangement I’ll make if you come to me with that BS
So C-Dotti, you’ve never heard of “triangles?” Love TRIANGLES are old as time itself. Men have had “mistresses” since the beginning of time – that’s known as an “ARRANGEMENT.” Men have had two or three sets of children since time immemorial. Women have been having babies by other men while married to one man since time immemorial. Prostitution is the oldest profession it is. This is all TRUTH! So with that said we need to recognize reality that is not coming out from behind closed doors. Just as men having been having sex with each other since time immemorial and, GET THIS, were MARRIED TO WOMEN. Homosexuality ain’t anything NEW. Women have been having homosexual relationships with one another and, GET THIS, having children and being MARRIED TO MEN. I think people love playing STUPID ‘HEAD’ GAMES. And there has been multiple combinations of these “ARRANGEMENTS” since time immemorial. Some people are just “GREEN.” Just because you haven’t heard of it doesn’t mean that it hasn’t been going on. IT HAS. Is it right or wrong? Who am I to judge? Get in where you fit in. It ain’t for everybody!
@COSHAMO,
No clue what you are talking about sir. Chuck and Dean do not have a love triangle going on. A love triangle is a relationship between 3 people. I’m far from green good sir.
Ok I gave this joint about 25-30 minutes of my time tonight. I’ll eventually watch the rest over the weekend,
Initial thoughts:
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1. I didn’t feel a connection with any of the guys shown in those minutes I watched. I was kinda “repulsed” by most of them to be honest..(sorry but that was my reaction)
2. I couldn’t help but to think about how a young masculine closeted teenager would feel by watching this “reality show?” If that teenager were me, I’d feel depressed and even more isolated and alone than ever before.
3. I was turned off by the unabashed narcissism and vapidness of these individuals. All of them seem to have the same personalities and modus operandi… Social status, Materialism, Random meaningless Sex, Clubs, Drugs, and a total disconnection with the world outside of their small rigid circles.
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My life isn’t all peachy, and I don’t mean to come off as judgmental or out of touch, but watching these queens only saddens me instead of filling me with pride.
…. I don’t feel “envious” of these dudes in the least. I feel sorry for them….
“… and you LIKE ‘SIZZLE’?” Something must be in the water. “Sizzle” is ATL on steroids. We all “know” this!
While I can see what you mean I disagree a little bit. There was a whole storyline with a couple of guys who were getting to know each other outside of sex and club scene. Brodney and Alex I think there names were. They’re in the first screenshot above. They both were also sacrificing their time to help others. One of them worked with LGBT people needing counseling and the other was helping to support/mentor the children of his deceased best friend.
I’m not in love with this joint and agree with you in some ways but I will admit they got a couple things right. I think if a teenager saw this it would actually help them. It woulda helped me see that gay was okay. It shows black gay men being comfortable in their skin and not being paranoid. I’m discreet now but I didn’t go to a gay club until I was damn near 30 from paranoia (and lack of interest to be honest). In hindsight, I shoulda went in my mid-20s at least.
Admittedly the rest is troublesome but its not like kids aren’t already exposed to narcissistic, materialistic people who perpetuate random sex) insert ANY rapper/singer/athlete/celebrity here).
@ COSHAMO – believe it or not, I’ve NEVER attended a gay pride event. That includes Sizzle Miami. That comment I made months ago about going to an event with an attractive friend was a hypothetical argument. I think because of my lack of exposure to large amounts of effeminate men in those gatherings, I find a disconnect with shows like this followed by extreme feelings of anxiety and disgust. I’m in my mid 30 now, and trust me, I know it’s not cool to feel this way. Those queens aren’t being hurt by my disliking them, in fact, they could care less about who hates them, which means, I’m only isolating myself from different experiences, – I’m working on it..
@ Nick D.
I understand where you’re coming from, but I also know you’re being very diplomatic in your critique of this web show. In fact, that’s probably your job to remain as open-minded and objective as possible – and I thank you for that, but that does not change how many masculine men will feel about those “caricatures” (and yes, I meant to use that term). You still must dig through the murk to find some flakes of gold within this hot mess. My point is, the murkiness overshadows the (tiny) positives that may lay within. You walk away with the same stereotypes and stigmas associated with Black Homosexuals……..it’s really depressing for me to watch.
Like you, I didn’t get much exposure to the club and pride life during my 20s (many reasons could justify that). And you know what’s funny? It use to be a badge of honor for masculine dudes to say “I’VE NEVER ATTENDED A PRIDE EVENT”, now I think it’s seen as being “less than evolved” by many younger people. I’m working on my phobias.
Thanks for the feedback.
Yeah I think its still seen as a badge of honor in some ways. I get instantly turned off when a dude tells me he went to Sizzle Miami. But as far as a local club or parties, its kinda different. For me at least. For me that represents just being comfortable with yourself. There was a time I would sit outside the club parking lot in my car scared to go inside from paranoia. That was unhealthy. If my hesitation came from just not being into the club scene, that would be different.
Anyway, I’m sure there are masculine discreet dudes who look at me and think I’m too Out since I’ve gone out. Hell, even running this website has been a problem at times. Think its easy telling a datable masculine, private, discreet dude that I’m the co-founder of one of the most visited black gay websites on the Internet. SMH. *Cue Kanye West’s “Runaway”*
@Nick…I’m from a generation that went to the clubs not just because it was gay but because of the music, when you went to black pride events because the main stream gay community wasn’t trying to cater to us or any other minority, then by my mid to late 30’s a major shift took place, hip hop & r&b music became the main sounds to be played, queens thug’ and wannabe thugs became the target market, in the gay community in general you had to be either thin as a rail or a muscle queen/gym rat with the body of David. Socially guys only hung out with guys who either looked and acted as they did, had the same socioeconomic status and so on. Sorry to say but this show is just a representation of what the black gay community in a lot of major cities has become…..You would think someone George’s age would be above that, but when you have issues with insecurities I guess not.
I must admit, even though I know most of you guys are tearing this show apart left and right, I must admit, this show is pretty good in my opinion. It seems to be a mixture of Love and Hip and Hop with The Real World. I must agree with previous poster @AnthonyDavis, because I do feel sometimes we look for things in the media to do or say or to represent too much. For example, were there stereotypical elements in this show? absolutely, but I feel this show is solely for entertainment and nothing more.
I personally loved some of the characters and some of the stories that are being told, not sure if this scripted or not, but whether it is or isn’t, I’m not sure if I care. and I’ll take the good with the bad, a reality series about Black gay men is a big step, these are their realities as to what they are living. In a weird way, It kind of showed me how normal they are. I loved the scene with the mothers and their sons at the dinner table, a black mother embracing her black son’s sexuality, that was nice to see. And I remember a comment someone made a long time ago about Rihanna, after Chris Brown attacked her and the following weekend she got back with him they said, “She’s not meant to be a role model, she’s an entertainer”, same goes for shows like this, because to be honest, I’m not always looking to watch a PSA, sometimes I need my downtime. I understand many of you worry people watch stuff like this seen on the web and television and take it as fact. If you ask me people who will just see one representation on television of a group and assume it to all, they are the ones with the real problems, if you ask me, because in this world, you should not be that naive. It’s important to do your extensive research to be able educate, inform and to learn. I don’t make heavily characteristic assumptions about christians, muslims, other racial groups etc.
This is Mainstream Black Gay Life. It is what it is. The majority of Black Gay males cater to this lifestyle. Some of us move in and out, get in and get out, but at the end of the day if you’ve been “gay” for any length of time you have run into scene’s exactly like this. This is called “being on the scene.” Most of us have been on the “scene” in some capacity no matter how brief. I actually like this show and I don’t know why. I would give it 4 stars. It doesn’t have all of the pretentiousness and “play acting – actors who can’t ac,” and faulty plots. It had a naturalness about it. It wasn’t over the top UNBELIEVABLE. It was a big dose of reality. I am looking forward to the next episode. It’s something I would watch. This is exactly who we are as Black Gay men – it is a reality check. Maybe once we start seeing ourselves for who we are and NOT WHO WE WISH WE WERE we will change these stereotypes and caricatures. We definitely have a lot of work to do. There are some aspects of Black Gay life that this will not be able to show, but then again I am waiting to see where this goes. It’s a good start. You can’t move forward unless you know where you come from. You have to acknowledge your SHIT! This is OUR TRUTH and I am taking full ownership of it. This is US whether we like it or not! It is what it is.
Four stars was a little too much for me but I gave it the closest thing to that. For us, four stars and up is for work that is out-the-box or creatively done that takes things in a new direction. This here is pretty typical except for the fact that we see bay black men instead of straight black women. But like I said in the review, its watchable and will be entertaining to people who normally watch reality shows.
As for “representing us”…I don’t know…I didn’t see a single person that represented me and any of my gay friends..They would never go to an underwear party, strip damn near naked and get into heated discussions with former porn stars. But I will admit SOME gay men live this life, so its not false at all. But its another brick plastered in the wall of people’s perception of black gay men. So it represents all of us, so its discouraging.
For the folks who only breath to become social stunt queens, than yes.. this might reflect their lifestyle. But please don’t use this semen stained paint brush, to convey a canvas for the entire SGL community. Pop culture (and society in general) has delusion us to believe that the pinnacle of being a black gay male is becoming the most worshiped butch queen in town, while ridding the biggest black dick (aka basically transforming into the next Kim Kardshian). Yet the “Sad Reality” is that most Same-Gender Loving men aren’t exposed to anything else outside of that flamboyant fantasy, and feel forced to follow this false hood since they believe outside of this… nothing else exist (which isn’t true).
I work with a African-American LGBT organization (that’s stereotypically not focusing on just HIV/AIDS treatment) and I’ve been blessed to be exposed to far more than the common cliche coonery that is far to often promoted in black SGL community. I’ve witnessed countless proud black gay/bi men succeed far outside of the misinformed LGBT stereotype.
But since these non-stereotypical men, aren’t 40+ year-old butch queens, who are hosting pajama/underwear/sleepover orgies at their rented Atlanta estate (with their former and future porn star hookups)… than you’ll rarely see them get mainstream support (fuck shit sells). So again, Tha Life maybe the reality for some (who live, breath and swallow the cum of being a socialite), but for the black gay/bi men who been bless to see beyond the stereotypical fuckery.. it’s not Tha Life for us.
While I’m not surprised…I think its odd that the guys 30 and over, they don’t reveal the age…But the guys 26 and under, the age is freely given…Just a weird observation I had that I didn’t have room to fit int he review, lol.
I Am that age and I act nothing like that, nor do I live that life style.
Nah I know that…I was trying to point out that there seemed to be an aversion to tell us the age of the older guys. Seemed like it would’ve provided context to show or tell us George’s age or Dean’s age since they are obviously older. But the younger guys, all of there ages made the final edit. Ageism?
@Nick
I noticed that too.. particularly when Butch Queen George was arguing with ex-Porn dude King B. about the “20yr age different”. The porn dude said he’s nearly the same age as the other guy, yet they seemingly went out of their way to not mention the ages..
It’s no big deal, but I’m with you – giving the ages can provide further context.
Question:
Soooo..one can’t have a gay lifestyle? Or yall sayin that it simply does NOT exist? Cuz IMHO, one can BE Gay (sexuality-wise), but what if he/she is livin a “Straight lifestyle”? Like bein MARRIED to somebody of the opposite sex for a NUMBER of YEARS. Someone explain to me their reason(s) why, por favor.
AndrewJS, your comment/question was relevant and valid – Define “lifestyle”? That was what you were asking. I think we are caught up in semantics here. The majority of “gay people are involved in this depiction of the “Black Gay Lifestyle” to some extent or another. This is where the tire meets the road. I have met people who have only come out every blue moon. But nevertheless, everybody feeds off of the main “event.” We all do. Although, I actually lead an “ordinary life.” I don’t participate in any of this type of drama laden crap. I did go out about 7 years ago and it was similar to this. The scene was thick with grandiose butch dyke queens – for which I haven’t any love. Some of my old pieces were there. I actually enjoyed myself for the ten weekly outings that the event lasted. I met some good people and I actually ended up going to a pretty decent party during this time. But in the end I didn’t find the love of my life at either event, or outing, but I came damn close. It was my own fault as I actually met somebody but “some mess broke out” and the party ended abruptly. Police were called and it was just sickening. Thus the DRAMA got so thick that I scurried out of their as the police were arriving. I actually refuse to be bothered with gay people and their bs. Just like that bs Queen George is doing in his show – it could actually turn out real ugly. You know how y’all gay people do it, y’all get to fighting over some butch queen and next thing you know it’s a full scale brawl with people “taking sides.” When I see shit like that I be like, “I ain’t gay no more.” I’m keeping it 100. Like I said, that was SEVEN years ago. Shows how much I am interested in being on anyone’s guest list, or at anyone’s party. I am so far removed from GAY DRAMA. I don’t even like male “butch” parties. I will not go to any of it. But at the end of the day, when I have to get my NEEDS met, I know what I need to do and I know where I need to go. At this stage of the game I don’t have any “NEEDS” I have more so DESIRES. Which I can quickly shutdown and AND pour cold water on “it”… j/k . The next show will be more drama, and then the next show will be major DRAMA to the point will the set will have to be closed down and “The SHOW will be over.” That’s how shit works with GAY people, and the GAY LIFESTYLE. What I don’t like is people who perp and pretend like they haven’t been on the SCENE before. That’s a LIE.
Oooooo…goootcha. After reading that^^, I can sculpt a more solid understanding, DRAMA being the primary component in the generalized depictions & such.
Again..when it came to this episode, I felt like “Damn..this shit IS kinda ..AND I’m entertained by it.” I do care, but then I don’t..it’s all good now, but when representing us in the long run, this just won’t do..jeez, life is complicated. Would honestly LIKING this be “settling”? I feel like this dead ass horse been beaten already…we all went IIIIN w/ these comments, LOL
So I actually loved this. I think a big part of it is because it is entertainment to me. I can not see myself in all that drama and extra stuff. But it is good tv. I’m sitting here like it cannot really be like that!!!
I think when I really fell in love with who I was and claimed being bi that I was thinking about really getting into the lifestyle, but it quickly proved to be too much for.
I do like that there are some nice masculine men on there and even the ones who are little soft, but still men. I’ll keep watching until I get a headache. But that open relationship shit only spells trouble. Smh.
Ok I just watched all parts of the show and I believe it’s very much scripted and fake. If it’s a scripted show, then that’s fine, but don’t sell it as a “reality show” because it’s NOT.
Having said that, I think I’ll watch the next installment. Seeing those tight asses in the last 30 minutes kinda changed my mind LOL..
AndrewJS raises a great point and as I said in a previous post “WILL BLACK GAY MEN EVER GET IT OUT OF THEIR HEADS THAT BEING GAY IS NOT A LIFESTYLE!!!!!!” What this show does it represent the lifestyle of a particular group of gay men, but that’s them. A “LIFESTYLE” is ones way of living their life, being gay is one aspect of some men’s lives but it’s not the whole of who they are or what they do.
But Craig, IDK if we still on the same page here, sir..lol
Like..I kno that simply BEING gay isn’t a lifestyle. However, do u think a “gay lifestyle” EXISTS..?
OK OK. I have watched both the teaser and the 1st episode. I loved both pof them. It does appear to be a scripted series and if it is.. AWESOME. I remember when George was trying to do this before. I am glad he changed the line up and did it his way. Allot of time when you try and submit an idea to a cable network, they don’t want to see an all black gay cast. They want to make it all white . I am glad to see this. I know everyone is going to have their negative critique but at the end of the day its a show that is different than Noah’s Arc. (I liked that show too). I am glad to see allot of good shows to watch this year. (Freefall, No Shade, Steel River and now Tha Life Atlanta 2013).
Here is the statement George had on youtube:Tha Life is my attempt to share a glimpse into the gay life style here in Atlanta. Even if you don’t agree with my interpretation it is important that we show the powers that be that we matter when it comes to programming. There are currently no shows on any network depicting stories of regular African American Men living their truth. THERE IS A MOVEMENT GOING ON IN GAY ENTERTAINMENT AND WE WILL NOT BE AT THE TABLE IF WE DON’T MOBILIZE AND SUPPORT BY SHOWING WE MATTER, CARE AND SUPPORT
If folks in any community feel or think this is a black gay man’s regular everyday life…ALL HOPE IS LOST!
These are stereotypical caricatures for messy entertainment. This helps no one but their pocket books. Like what you like but please don’t speak as if this is helpful to the black gay community.
Really?
I do believe and know that a lot of this is based on reality. The sooner we acknowledge that this is the center piece of Black Gay life in America the sooner we will be able to heal. We can’t get there until 1. We acknowledge that this exists; 2. We have participated in this crap on some level regardless to how remote or insignificant we think our contribution to this bs is or was; 3. We then realize we have work to do to correct the “ugliness” we see and dislike. We continue to be in denial, and as long as we do we will continue to suffer from the errors of our ways.
I don’t promote this type of crap, but I have witnessed this first hand. I spent, figuratively speaking, like “5 minutes” on the scene and I left. I actually can’t stomach crap like this. I prefer to be on a man on the fringes. I need to have my “NEEDS” met, and have to go where they are most likely to be MET. So I get in and out most times without any action. It’s a sad state of affairs for us all. Now, I am so far above having my “needs” met as a “NEED” that I wouldn’t be caught on a scene like this. It’s pathetic.
But I digress as I don’t want to be mean and too critical as people will accuse me of being, COSHAMO. LOL…. it is what it is and I have said my piece/peace… on it.
@COSHAMO
Just when I thought I had you figured out, you go and throw me a curve ball again… You’re a trip dude lol
Keep evolving 🙂
I never understood the “community” concept?
Why do we have to look at ourselves in the framework of a community just because we are black and happen to strongly love members of our own sex? Heteros don’t do this.
I would like to see a post and dialogue on this topic.
Ocky I hear you proclaim your “difference” from certain “cultures” more correctly, like “fem culture” among black homosexuals. So where’s the logic in lumping yourself in with that by claiming to be a part of a “community” they are in? Either you’re in with them or you’re not. The common denominator being black or liking men doesn’t make sense. Unless I’m missing something?
The white gay masculine elite pimps the “Fems” for their. No Fems attend Bohemian Grove except to service a few and that’s even doubtful. You don’t hear a peep out of these clearly gay and bisexual men or tolerant thereof ,claiming to be part of the “gay community”.
If we want “equal” treatment. We need to act equal.
Truth be told most straight people are only offended visible and open gender identity confusion. Outside of that they could care less if one is “gay” or even care to know as long as you don’t bother them with it.
George Smith is doing him. He has no effect on the rest of us. At least not me. And sure most on this panel feel the same.
@TLK We as a black community lost the “community” aspect when we became integrated with whites. During segregation, we had to rely on each other to survive. Ironically, we supported each other more during that time period because we had to. When we were allowed to taste the forbidden fruit, we turned our financial capital over to white owned business and services who really didn’t care for us or our plight. We must get back to community!
In regards to heteros and the sense of community, most other ethnic groups stick together because community is at the center of their culture. Look at the Jews, Asians, Latinos, Africans, and other groups. They stick together and
avoid the individual mentality because it is antithetical to their culture.
If we as Blacks of all cultural stripes could stand in solidarity, we would cause a major shift in the experience for all. We have bought into and perpetuate the sentiment that it is all about me. I’m going to get mine, you get yours. We no longer care if the consequences of our actions affect the greater good of Black folks everywhere, because we simply don’t care. From an African American perspective, individualism is how we find mobility. For non African American Blacks, they don’t see themselves as part of “us” because of how we have been presented to the world. This disconnect is dangerous but put in place so that we know our place and keep white power and privilege where it is! Either we see it or we don’t. Learn…
Merhan seen …….. was not feeling it. it show how gay men can be curl…. George u r a prick….. u speak to him on different levels…. if u want it to be friendship level from day one that relationship should have been establish…. but reality… i think George wanted to learn a few porn trick from Merhan to bring his a game to the his different relationships.
A less to George, never insult people in your home, it’s bad karma….. you could have handle the situation differently. if u was concern about Dave knowing about merhan and you. you should have left merhan to his own demise. But u reacted cause there is something to hide….. trust me dave expression after the incident tells a lot.
trust…
Very good point @ loveit. I agree with the BAD KARMA piece and prognosis. You don’t invite people to your house/party and mistreat them. That’s bs. Unless he was doing this to stage DRAMA to create more talk about HIS SHOW. As they say, “Not all bad publicity is ‘bad.'” If we continue to talk about, “How bad George treated Merhan,” then this will have achieved its/his aim – more talk about the show.” I saw a several flaws with the show, but I decided not to disclose them as of yet. I will continue to let the drama unfold and see where it goes.
This post probably has the most comments on your website. Wow!
I wonder if this show could be picked up by a major network..
I doubt it gets picked up by a major. Not because of quality or anything, but majors look at ratings and viewer potential and only 7,000 views after nearly a week is not considered good.
Finally finished looking at the show. Lots of comments already but for me I will pass. To stereotypical and the soft core porn scenes, nudity and messiness is why ALL the community is lumped together and viewed the way it is. The media that the black gay community is putting out has not evolved and is very stagnant.
Finally finished looking at the show. Lots of comments already but for me I will pass. To stereotypical and the soft core porn scenes, nudity and messiness is why ALL the community is lumped together and viewed the way it is. The media that the black gay community is putting out has not evolved and is very stagnant.
Ha…I don’t know if his ego would let us.
Besides to me the creator is attempting to or trying to become gay famous. If this is the case he is doing exactly what he needs to do to reach his goal and I don’t think he would need to change his formula to satisfy the likes of viewers like me. He has his audience.
Wow, you just summed up what my tingling issue with the show is. It literally feels like nothing more than a glorified vanity piece. One of my friends said it best. “They are pretending to be the socialites of gay atlanta in hopes of becoming the socialites of gay atlanta.”
I’m going to have to wait to read the rest of your comments when I get to my desk in the morning. I just got done watching this…and while I’m not one to knock anyone’s hard work and effort I can’t say I was a fan. Not to say that its a bad piece of work, because it will draw an audience, I just know that I won’t be watching any other episodes of this. I think it struck a nerve with me, and reminded me why I don’t mess with the types of men portrayed in the show, its just not my deal and they reminded me why….and to think I may have to move to ATL for grad school….ugh.
These men exist in the lifestyle no doubt…but we should all know not all black gay men act the same way.
Everyone is not into the club scene or into the drama and mess. Even though this is a scripted reality show, it is still based in reality. Having experienced this before I can ensure you there is a yen to this yang and ATL is a great place to be like many other cities.
Very good points made at @ Black Pegasus. I think you may need to continue working on your strong dislike for those that are different from you, but you made some great points here in this discussion.
@ Nick D
The fact that you could not make it past 1 minute of a more fem male’s video is a problem and it needs to be fixed. Regardless of who the person is, we should be able to hear people out before restricting their contribution to a much needed discussion. Although I find my style to be very much different from the person who was delivering his important opinions, I agree with C-Dotti, some of the stuff that he was relaying was VERY TRUTHFUL.
The most important out of them all is that we are a culture of people who FAIL AT CONNECTING PAST SEX. You can be the exception if you want to.
I have also noticed the INSANE OBSESSIONS for Social Status, Random Meaningless Sex, Materialism, and other insignificant things. IT’S ALL SO SILLY TO ME.
WHEN ARE SOME OF US ARE GOING TO LEARN THE BASICS.
I am seeing that a large proportion of my gays and bisexuals can benefit from BASIC training.
Learn what it means to LOVE YOURSELF and APPRECIATE YOU for a change.
Learn to DO POSITIVE THINGS THAT OTHERS BENEFIT FROM
Learn that YOU ARE A HUMAN and ARE NOT MORE IMPORTANT THAN ANYONE ELSE.
Learn that YOUR HEALTH IS VERY IMPORTANT
Learn to DROP THE ATTITUDES and FIND JOY IN AS MUCH AS YOU POSSIBLY CAN BECAUSE YOU’RE AGING EACH DAY.
Learn to SHARE and RESPECT OTHERS,
Learn to STOP THE CAT SESSIONS/SILLY COMPETITIONS WITH OTHER MEN BECAUSE THERE IS NO REAL GAIN THERE.
Learn what it means to be a FRIEND w/o FUCKING or A MOTIVE.
Learn what it means to BE A LEADER and to SHAPE YOUR OWN RESULTS.
Learn that it is absolutely fine if you HAVE REASONABLE STANDARDS FOR YOURSELF as a man.
Learn that EVERY PERSON IS NOT THE SAME and that it is okay to TRUST SOMETIMES.
Learn how DAMAGING that SHIELD IN FRONT OF YOUR HEART is and that you are heading to Lonely Land 100 mph
Learn to look at the man in the mirror and JUDGE HIM FIRST.
Learn to STOP CHASING MONEY and BUILD TOGETHER
Learn to BE AROUND MORE PEOPLE WHO TRULY CARE ABOUT YOU AND ACCEPT YOU AS A PERSON.
I didn’t turn off the fem man’s video rant because he was feminine…I turned it off because of his amateurish, vulgar and loud presentation. If anyone starts off a “VERY TRUTHFUL” message yelling “fuck” into a webcam while wearing only an undershirt, its likely that their words aren’t meant for my ears.
After seeing the film I felt it gave an accurate picture of Atlanta and many other cities. Yes, Atlanta does have a tremendous amount of men who are either feminine, butch queens, chasing money, shallow, superficial, gym rats, attractive, unattractive, educated, uneducated, wanna be more than what they really are, party heads, lost in the gay culture, not for committed relationships or meaningful connections, doing good things, lost, coming from other states and maximizing the numbers of men who are not dateable, and SEX is pretty much what’s valued just like in other highly populated cities with SGL men. Not much that is actually significant.
IT’S UP TO THE MEN IN THESE KIND OF CITIES TO CREATE THEIR OWN RESULTS, REACT DIFFERENTLY.
I feel the show was entertaining. Even though some of us hate to see the truth sometimes, the show displayed exactly what you are likely to see in the city. So far Brodney, the guy that works at the LGBT Counseling Center, and Trocye, George’s friend from CT, are the most interesting guys to me as of right now.
This is some bullshit and George Smith is a shallow, insecure, empty, delusional social climber …. definitely a scripted show. I might watch it just to roast & gag and roll my eyes at … low level entertainment.
The ATL scene is dying …. Houston and Dallas are getting more live and up next. You heard it here first.
The show is nice and entertaining, and the part about Nigerian men is funny and as a Nigerian gay male living in the UK I cn say it’s not always the case. That said, the show depicts a side of the Gay world and we should all appreciate (as much as we want to be a part of it or not) there are young gay men in Africa that would kill to be able to live this free and out
Thank you. You have given me more of a reason to appreciate this post. I can’t imagine living in Africa and being stopped from loving who I want. Although we don’t have all of the freedoms that we portend, we do have quite a bit more than what gay males have in Africa. I hope that one day soon gay people in Africa can have the freedom to choose who they want to love. I am actually saddened by the situation in Africa, and I feel for the brothers and sisters who are forced to be in the closet with the doors bolted shut, and triple locked. It’s like being a prisoner in your own home.
That part about Nigerian men isn’t true! We’re not all like that! But I agree with your points here!
Welcome to the DC blog Demmy! Good to see a fellow Nigerian here.
Well this show grew on me for what its worth which is another look at the empty lifestyles of SOME gay men in a big city like Atlanta. Been to Atlanta, did not like the city- people I met and saw are too false, pretentious and processed. Everyone looks like massa from the big house. The reality show is just an extension of this perception . No REAL masculinity , everyone sexing everyone for the moment- everyone has a motive but it all leads to the same road- SEX. George to me is a big queen who flashes her money around who says he is looking for love but honestly he just wants what everyone else wants – SEX and ideally from a hung top from the projects will do him fine. For me the show ticks the check marks on my impression of Atlanta. Life hasn’t changed. All fluff, no substance. New York for me.
Being exactly one year later to the date of your comment, have you found NYC to be any different than Atlanta, Ptseti? To me it’s all the same shit, just a lot more diverse ethnic backgrounds. LOL
I have asked this question before on Discreet City but I never got an answer. It appears that all of the web series and films you guys show case there everyone seems to overly critical and chop it to pieces. What types of film would you support? What type of characters would you want to see on TV and Film? What kind of plot would grab your attention? Would you support financially on some of these independent films and shows that are trying o raise money. We all have to realize that there are different levels of Black gay life. There is a balance like everything in life. I still think that it would be a great idea to have the creator of the show on like you did with the creator of free fall web series.
To answer your question: Not only do we love The D.L. Chronicles, we’ve praised it many times on the site, financially supported the filmmakers and even interviewed them for over an hour in one of our podcasts. We also loved many short films like Slow and Animal Drill. Check through our “REVIEWS” and you’ll see quite a few things we actually like.
I still don’t know how to use the site but I was confused. I saw all the dates for this stuff and was like…this article is old. Anyways, I agree with you Nick. You guys do like a lot of things but also dislike a lot of things. I just think when you dislike something you can be a bit overly harsh on it. But your reviews do make for great market research.
So we’re supposed to be nice about stuff we don’t like? I don’t know how to do that. lol. Articles here are “old” because they all came from our previous website “Discreet City.” To use the site, click on one of the categories in the navigation bar at the top, articles related to that category will be displayed from there.
No what I meant by old was the comments were dated for like a few days ago but I know we talked about this more than a few days ago. I was momentarily confused but figured it out. I’m not a techie, leave me alone lol. But I think there’s a difference between a constructive critique versus just burning something up. I remember there was one show, I think it was called The Streets and the opening of the review was something like the show looked like it was shot on an Iphone. Funny…but mean lol. I’m sure they knew it didnt look nice. Then there was one point where I think you spent the majority of the Finding Me series review making fun of their usage of webisode or something like that. See…mean. I think one of your most effective critiques was of Free Fall. Highly constructive while still giving out some praise. Just my two cents. *goes back to doing what I was doing*
LMAO but you just answered your own question, homie. As I was reading your comment I was laughing at the old stuff I said in the reviews. I’m not writing reviews to give the filmmakers constructive feedback. I’m writing to entertain the Cypher Avenue audience. Its satire. If making people laugh gets them to read the articles, great. The filmmakers are doing fine, even with my harsh, yet hilarious, criticism. As far as I can tell, I’m one person saying negative things out of hundreds of others giving praises. lol. They don’t care.
As for the comments, I’ve had to copy and paste those over one-by-one from the old site, it was the only way to transfer them over.
Ok fine, you got me. I’m just saying we know there’s not a lot of good black LGBT content out there. The content creators have to be guided byt he audience sometimes. Sidenote…apparently a new episode of this show was posted today but the 1st episode was deleted. That’s weird to me but whatever.
Do you guys want to talk this over coffee, I mean gees…
Same script…different cast
As a gay black male myself,I thought the show was entertaining,well edited but it hurt to watch. The show was great but the culture of black gay men is so sad.This show does a great job of showing the gay black culture,and that’s sad,because what is seen on this episode is 100% accurate.i was able to relate to many of the characters on this show. Everything was about their appearance,sex, reputation, and those things were covered with the idea of finding true love, but true love wont ever come for people like those on this show because their perception of a real person is built on superficial things.Their begging to be unhappy for your life.Sad,sad,sad. again,entertain show,great project, but boarder line soft porn,but that’s pretty typical for gay men.
although i did not see the first episode, so i can not compare this one to it, i was thoroughly impressed with the writing and the picture and audio quality of this one. good, bad or indifferent, i think the chararcters are believable plus, the acting was tolerable. i thought they did a good job with the story line and believe that this webisode has a good chance of making it. i’ve seen a lot more foolishness that has somehow made it to prime time.
congrats George Smith and keep up the good work. <3
Thank urself for missing the 1st draft..
I am a 30 year old educated small business owner engaged to a 33 year old anesthesiologist we both are black educated and handsome. Yet you will never see this depicted in a black reality series. We are commited and love each other. I don’t have messy black gay friends. My friends are intelligent educated young men who are looking to one day have what I do. People don’t want to see this because its boring. No one wants to see black gay men contributing to society as a whole in a positive manner. I’ve been living in Atlanta forever and have buried so may associates from my younger days because of this same relationship behavior as portrayed in this series. We have to get it together.
Small business owner engaged to an anesthesiologist??? You guys are like a freakin POWER COUPLE! LOL
Thanks. I wouldn’t I’m enjoying my fiance. Thanks for the compliment. What do you do ?
I say go for it George! Although everything is stereotypical and not surprising…this might be what the community need to heal internal problems…sometimes it takes a mirror reflection to see the problem, in order to get to a solution…maybe the characters will grow (I can’t believe grown men act like this, so catty…such a turn off)…but my gut feeling says it will be a hit among the community…after it’s all said and done, Go for it George…
This shit is mad depressing dude. I already have micro anxieties about the dating pool in the black “gay community.” And to see this definitely doesn’t soothe those anxieties. This is kinda why I don’t deal with the gay scene (among other reasons). A part of me feels like I’ll be single forever because at every turn, I run into some variation of these walking stereotypes.
Yeah, I get the entertainment aspect of it. We still haven’t purged our collective reality TV addiction. We crave hyper dramatizations of other people’s lives. Rachetness is still in. Blah, blah, blah. But for me, I just look at it and think,”Is this all there is?”
Agreed. I live in ATL and I see this shit all of the time.
This shit is too funny. I can’t do it anymore. It’s ATL though