Bravo TV in the US masterminded a truly unique format of reality show when they created the Real Housewives of Orange County many moons ago. Loosely based on the antics of the fictional Desperate Housewives characters, the ladies featured were more typically representative of their wealth and social stature living in sunny California.
The show was hugely popular and stemmed a dominant reality TV franchise which spanned many cities in the US including New York, Miami and New Jersey to name a few. Most of the women cast in the shows were discovered through networking affluent socialites within their cities and few castings were held.
These women were outrageous, often wealthy and totally shameless in their bid for attention, which you could tell often was at the expense of their spouses or children who were roped into appearing.
The death of Beverly Hills cast member Russell Armstrong due to suicide last week, poses the question, is reality TV to blame?
The troubled star of the hit show was the husband of main cast member Taylor Armstrong, whose marriage troubles were clearly highlighted in last years first season of the show. Taylor described her marriage to Russell as 80% business and 20% romance, and appeared sad and crying in several scenes.
Russell's family has since spoken out, blaming Bravo for his death, claiming that the show had pushed his relationship with his wife to breaking point, with him seeing no way out.
Has reality TV really driven a man to suicide?
I have to say no. Every choice in life that we make as human beings affects us in some ways. We all make good and bad choices in our lives, which we often regret, but it is important to know that there is a way out.
While the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills may not have portrayed Russell as an angel, he himself signed up for the show, not once, but twice. Now Bravo bosses face the difficult task of deciding how to re-edit the popular show which is due to hit screens next week.
When it comes to reality TV, participants need to ask themselves if airing their dirty laundry to an entire nation is worth the fame and fortune. Or should private matters remain private.
My thoughts are with Russell's children, and of course, Taylor Armstrong.
