After a brief hiatus, Celebrities Defined is back in action, ready to bring you the stuff you really want to know about the celebrities you love (and even some you hate).
POLL: We want to know - who would you like to see interviewed by Celebrities Defined? Leave us a text comment here!
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Monday, July 23, 2007
No Day But Today
If you've been alive at any point over the past ten years, you've heard of RENT.
RENT is a rock-opera written by the late Jonathan Larson. The show is based on Puccini's, "La Boheme," and was one of the first shows on Broadway to feature gay, lesbian, and transgender characters. Its message is simple: Forget regret, or life is yours to miss. In other words; no day but today.
RENT has achieved enormous success since its debut off-Broadway, through its move to Broadway, and even still with its national and international tours. In November, 2005, RENT was adapted to a movie version, directed by Chris Columbus, and enjoyed enormous success, finding its way to the box office top-ten list for three consecutive weeks.
It is all too sad that the creator of RENT did not live to enjoy the fame and success of the show. At only 35 years old, Larson suffered a major aortic aneurysm and died unexpectedly on the night of January 25, 1996 - the night before RENT was to open its doors for the first time ever.
The RENT crusade has continued on, thanks in no small part to Jonathan's parents, Al and Nan Larson, as well as many other friends and family members.
The next leg of the RENT journey includes a "school version" which was recently released to only five theatre groups nationwide. Un-Common Theatre, which performs at the Orpheum Theatre in Foxboro, MA, was one of these groups.
“I saw RENT about ten years ago when it first opened, and my first thought was that I couldn’t wait until the rights were available so I could work with young actors on this show,” said director Christa Crewdson. “The cast has done a great job, and I’m very proud of them.”
The cast is diverse in their roots, spanning Hopedale, Roslindale, Boston, and Framingham, MA, and even Cranston, RI. They also span in ages, from 16 to 21.
The cast was very excited to be interviewed by Celebrities Defined, although I must admit on a personal note, I was much more excited than they were. A meet-and-greet with a RENT cast is something I have always wished for, and I was getting my wish on this day!
The cast filtered into the room designated for the interview. The last person to arrive was Brandon Grimes, who played Tom Collins. Upon entering the room, Grimes remarked that the gathering somewhat resembled that of the life-support meeting depicted in the show. It was later revealed that Grimes had performed with Un-Common before, most recently as the Cat in the production of Honk last summer.
When asked about the experience of performing in RENT, the cast was modest, but still very excited. One of the common threads throughout the actors was that they had each desired to make this show their very own. While they maintained the structural integrity of the show and the characters, this cast certainly brought very unique perspectives to the characters they played.
"I think it was intimidating, but it was our chance to make the show our own. We wanted to make it different; we didn't want it to be the Broadway replica," said Kevin Hanley, who played Roger Davis.
"It was definitely a challenge, but I was very excited to play Mark," David Mizzoni said of playing Mark Cohen. "I had seen it on Broadway twice, and I was very excited to make this role my own."
Many of the leads had not had much experience in musical theatre, which was surprising, considering their collectively remarkable performance. It seems they had been drawn in by the name of the show.
"I had never done musical theatre before, but I am planning on studying to become an actor at Emerson this fall," said Brittany Halls, the recent Boston-Latin graduate who played Maureen Johnson.
"I saw the auditions posted on a website, and I figured, why not? I had no summer plans for theatre," said Jake Zentis, who portrayed Angel Schunard.
Brittney Santoro, who portrayed Mimi Marquez, is no stranger to the stage. Although this is her first performance with Un-Common, Santoro has played Sandy in Grease at Cranston High School West. In fact, it was at Cranston West where she made friends with Mathieu Whitman, who pulled her into auditions for RENT.
Whitman has also been with Un-Common before. In fact, he has been with Un-Common for about eight years and is currently studying theatre at NYU. Whitman performed the role of Benjamin “Benny” Coffin, III. At first, seeing a Caucasian play the role of Benny, typically portrayed as African-American, may have made some patrons wary of his capability to perform such a role effectively. Not only did Whitman portray this role in a remarkably unique light, but I believe his portrayal of the character should be that to which all future performers playing Benny should look to when they are studying the character. Whitman also choreographed the show.
Kathleen Pierre, who portrayed Joanne Jefferson, at first claimed to never have participated in musical theatre, when Santoro pointed to her and stated boldly, “Yes you have! That counts!” Zentis confirmed, “If you can put it on the resume, then it counts!”
Choreographically, highlights included “Tango Maureen”, “Out Tonight” and “No Day But Today”, and of course, “La Vie Boheme”. Vocal highlights included, well, pretty much the entire show.
The cast seemed saddened that their endeavor with RENT was over, but they remained light-hearted, and each looked forward to their next theatrical endeavor.
Looking out into the audience on Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon, it was very clear that a new generation of RENTheads has emerged. The audience, primarily made up of an age group spanning from teenagers to twenty-somethings, knew every word to every song in the entire show. It was obvious that many were finding it difficult to remain still during the performance.
You can check out Un-Common Theatre Company’s website at www.uncommontheatre.com, or you can check out the website for the Orpheum Theatre at www.baycolonyproductions.com for upcoming events and shows.
Matthew Trowbridge
Reporting Journalist – Celebrities Defined
Special Thanks to Janice O’Brien for her revisions and support.
RENT is a rock-opera written by the late Jonathan Larson. The show is based on Puccini's, "La Boheme," and was one of the first shows on Broadway to feature gay, lesbian, and transgender characters. Its message is simple: Forget regret, or life is yours to miss. In other words; no day but today.
RENT has achieved enormous success since its debut off-Broadway, through its move to Broadway, and even still with its national and international tours. In November, 2005, RENT was adapted to a movie version, directed by Chris Columbus, and enjoyed enormous success, finding its way to the box office top-ten list for three consecutive weeks.
It is all too sad that the creator of RENT did not live to enjoy the fame and success of the show. At only 35 years old, Larson suffered a major aortic aneurysm and died unexpectedly on the night of January 25, 1996 - the night before RENT was to open its doors for the first time ever.
The RENT crusade has continued on, thanks in no small part to Jonathan's parents, Al and Nan Larson, as well as many other friends and family members.
The next leg of the RENT journey includes a "school version" which was recently released to only five theatre groups nationwide. Un-Common Theatre, which performs at the Orpheum Theatre in Foxboro, MA, was one of these groups.
“I saw RENT about ten years ago when it first opened, and my first thought was that I couldn’t wait until the rights were available so I could work with young actors on this show,” said director Christa Crewdson. “The cast has done a great job, and I’m very proud of them.”
The cast is diverse in their roots, spanning Hopedale, Roslindale, Boston, and Framingham, MA, and even Cranston, RI. They also span in ages, from 16 to 21.
The cast was very excited to be interviewed by Celebrities Defined, although I must admit on a personal note, I was much more excited than they were. A meet-and-greet with a RENT cast is something I have always wished for, and I was getting my wish on this day!
The cast filtered into the room designated for the interview. The last person to arrive was Brandon Grimes, who played Tom Collins. Upon entering the room, Grimes remarked that the gathering somewhat resembled that of the life-support meeting depicted in the show. It was later revealed that Grimes had performed with Un-Common before, most recently as the Cat in the production of Honk last summer.
When asked about the experience of performing in RENT, the cast was modest, but still very excited. One of the common threads throughout the actors was that they had each desired to make this show their very own. While they maintained the structural integrity of the show and the characters, this cast certainly brought very unique perspectives to the characters they played.
"I think it was intimidating, but it was our chance to make the show our own. We wanted to make it different; we didn't want it to be the Broadway replica," said Kevin Hanley, who played Roger Davis.
"It was definitely a challenge, but I was very excited to play Mark," David Mizzoni said of playing Mark Cohen. "I had seen it on Broadway twice, and I was very excited to make this role my own."
Many of the leads had not had much experience in musical theatre, which was surprising, considering their collectively remarkable performance. It seems they had been drawn in by the name of the show.
"I had never done musical theatre before, but I am planning on studying to become an actor at Emerson this fall," said Brittany Halls, the recent Boston-Latin graduate who played Maureen Johnson.
"I saw the auditions posted on a website, and I figured, why not? I had no summer plans for theatre," said Jake Zentis, who portrayed Angel Schunard.
Brittney Santoro, who portrayed Mimi Marquez, is no stranger to the stage. Although this is her first performance with Un-Common, Santoro has played Sandy in Grease at Cranston High School West. In fact, it was at Cranston West where she made friends with Mathieu Whitman, who pulled her into auditions for RENT.
Whitman has also been with Un-Common before. In fact, he has been with Un-Common for about eight years and is currently studying theatre at NYU. Whitman performed the role of Benjamin “Benny” Coffin, III. At first, seeing a Caucasian play the role of Benny, typically portrayed as African-American, may have made some patrons wary of his capability to perform such a role effectively. Not only did Whitman portray this role in a remarkably unique light, but I believe his portrayal of the character should be that to which all future performers playing Benny should look to when they are studying the character. Whitman also choreographed the show.
Kathleen Pierre, who portrayed Joanne Jefferson, at first claimed to never have participated in musical theatre, when Santoro pointed to her and stated boldly, “Yes you have! That counts!” Zentis confirmed, “If you can put it on the resume, then it counts!”
Choreographically, highlights included “Tango Maureen”, “Out Tonight” and “No Day But Today”, and of course, “La Vie Boheme”. Vocal highlights included, well, pretty much the entire show.
The cast seemed saddened that their endeavor with RENT was over, but they remained light-hearted, and each looked forward to their next theatrical endeavor.
Looking out into the audience on Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon, it was very clear that a new generation of RENTheads has emerged. The audience, primarily made up of an age group spanning from teenagers to twenty-somethings, knew every word to every song in the entire show. It was obvious that many were finding it difficult to remain still during the performance.
You can check out Un-Common Theatre Company’s website at www.uncommontheatre.com, or you can check out the website for the Orpheum Theatre at www.baycolonyproductions.com for upcoming events and shows.
Matthew Trowbridge
Reporting Journalist – Celebrities Defined
Special Thanks to Janice O’Brien for her revisions and support.
Friday, July 13, 2007
I Want to be a Producer...
My second interviewee was an obvious choice. He's been my boss for a few months, now.
From the moment I first caught a glimpse of "Chris and John to the Rescue," I was captivated. Chris and John brought a sense of connection to me that is quite undescribable. I had long awaited for a show where homosexuals seek out other homosexuals in need of "rescuing" (and no, I don't mean converting them to heterosexuality) to refresh them with dates, makeovers, and solutions to their problems. The show is often compared to Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, with the clear exception that these two are in it to help out their own kind.
Living with his boyfriend, Justin, in Toronto, Ontario, John is an infamous party boy and animal activist. He is well known throughout the gay community across Canada, and even to a few strays outside Canada, including one here at Celebrities Defined.
His time is very hard to obtain if you're not running your life on an equally as fast of a pace as he, but I managed to keep up for about an hour or so. I felt privileged and honoured (that "u" is for you, John) that he had slowed down for a while to talk with me about his life.
With no further ado, I present the one-on-one exclusive interview with the most adorable guy I've had the fortune of working for; the founder of John Simpson Productions: John Simpson.
Celebrities Defined: What made you decide to pursue a career in telelvision broadcasting?
John Simpson: Back when I was a kid, I did a lot of acting and some such, and so I used to make home videos with my friends for us to act in. But as we got older, we realized that we could do a lot more with the camera than just point it at ourselves and act in front of it. From then on, I got really involved in the behind-the-scenes aspect. I've always been a HUGE television fan, so I was able to join the two together and get into television production.
Celebrities Defined: How did you and Chris meet?
John Simpson: Chris actually lived just down the road from me, and we ended up going to the same Dance/Drama studio.
Celebrities Defined: What's it like, seeing yourself on television?
John Simpson: (laughs) Well, because I also produce, direct, and edit the series, I don't have a lot of time to really think about that kind of stuff. I'm too busy critiquing everything else about the show to even think about the fact that it's actually ME on there.
Celebrities Defined: How old were you when you came out?
John Simpson: The first time I told someone I was gay, I was 19.
Celebrities Defined: How did your family react when they found out?
John Simpson: "Well of course we knew! It's about time you told us!"
Celebrities Defined: How did you meet Justin?
John Simpson: We met online, which is pretty embarassing to say, but it's true. I had never done online dating before.
... so there IS hope for me.
Celebrities Defined: Do the two of you have a special song?
John Simpson: (laughs) We don't, actually. It's something we actively work on. There's a lot of songs we both enjoy, but nothing yet has ever become "our" song.
Celebrities Defined: What has been your best production endeavor?
John Simpson: Definitely the Christmas episode that we did this past season on "Chris & John to the Rescue". It's really special to me. I worked my ass off on it, and I thought it really showed.
Believe me, it did.
Celebrities Defined: And the worst?
John Simpson: Well, Chris and I made dozens of short films back in the day. I think any of those could qualify for this answer.
Celebrities Defined: Are you more of a book person or a movie person?
John Simpson: Television person! I rarely read books; it's too exhausting! They've created movies and television - why be told a story through such a primative means? (laughs)
Celebrities Defined: So then, what's your favorite movie?
John Simpson: Love, Actually. I could watch that movie indefinitely!
Celebrities Defined: How about your least favorite movie?
John Simpson: John Carpenter's The Thing, The Lord of the Rings, Operation Dumbo Drop, The Return... the list could go on!
Celebrities Defined: If you could meet anyone from history, who would it be?
John Simpson: Anyone involved with the Stonewall Riots.
Well said.
Celebrities Defined: What is your highest aspiration as a producer?
John Simpson: My highest aspiration is to be doing what I'm doing now with "Chris and John to the Rescue", but at a higher level - perhaps bring something like what we're doing to a more mainstream audience. I'd also like to eventually get involved with television networks, in terms of programming development, scheduling, etc.
Celebrities Defined: What advice would you give to those who are aspiring to make it in the production business?
John Simpson: Intern for free! It's the only way to get anywhere, and start making your own stuff, and just practice. Keep doing what you love to do, even if you have to work other crappy jobs to do it.
Celebrities Defined: What’s on the agenda for the next season of Chris and John to the Rescue?
John Simpson: Well, one of the twists for the new season is that we're shooting it entirely on location in the gorgeous Provincetown, Mass, which is very exciting for us!
Celebrities Defined: That sounds excellent! What kind of rescue missions do you have lined up for the show this season?
John Simpson: Well, I can't give too much away at this time... but let's just say that I'm sure we're definitely going to be interacting with some really fun characters! Although I'm not sure if anyone will ever live up to the level of Brian Doyle.
Celebrities Defined: Word on the street is that you've recruited local talent from here in MA to assist you with the show. Does this rumor hold water?
There's nothing like a shameless plug for yourself.
John Simpson: (laughs) It's true! We have a top-secret producer working for us in MA. He's been a huge help, as we're stuck here planning the season from Toronto.
I don't think he's so "top-secret" anymore...
Celebrities Defined: If you could interview any famous person, who would it be and why?
John Simpson: Rosie O'Donnell. She's my idol in life, and I feel like I could talk with her for days and days.
Celebrities Defined: John, thank you so much for granting me some of your time. I cannot wait to see the next season of Chris and John to the Rescue! I'm sure it will be of the utmost caliber!
John Simpson: Well, I'm glad you have high hopes! We definitely do as well. We just thank everyone for watching the show and giving us their support, it really means a lot.
You can take a glimpse into the work of John Simpson Productions' "Chris and John to the Rescue" at www.chrisandjohnonline.com
From the moment I first caught a glimpse of "Chris and John to the Rescue," I was captivated. Chris and John brought a sense of connection to me that is quite undescribable. I had long awaited for a show where homosexuals seek out other homosexuals in need of "rescuing" (and no, I don't mean converting them to heterosexuality) to refresh them with dates, makeovers, and solutions to their problems. The show is often compared to Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, with the clear exception that these two are in it to help out their own kind.
Living with his boyfriend, Justin, in Toronto, Ontario, John is an infamous party boy and animal activist. He is well known throughout the gay community across Canada, and even to a few strays outside Canada, including one here at Celebrities Defined.
His time is very hard to obtain if you're not running your life on an equally as fast of a pace as he, but I managed to keep up for about an hour or so. I felt privileged and honoured (that "u" is for you, John) that he had slowed down for a while to talk with me about his life.
With no further ado, I present the one-on-one exclusive interview with the most adorable guy I've had the fortune of working for; the founder of John Simpson Productions: John Simpson.
Celebrities Defined: What made you decide to pursue a career in telelvision broadcasting?
John Simpson: Back when I was a kid, I did a lot of acting and some such, and so I used to make home videos with my friends for us to act in. But as we got older, we realized that we could do a lot more with the camera than just point it at ourselves and act in front of it. From then on, I got really involved in the behind-the-scenes aspect. I've always been a HUGE television fan, so I was able to join the two together and get into television production.
Celebrities Defined: How did you and Chris meet?
John Simpson: Chris actually lived just down the road from me, and we ended up going to the same Dance/Drama studio.
Celebrities Defined: What's it like, seeing yourself on television?
John Simpson: (laughs) Well, because I also produce, direct, and edit the series, I don't have a lot of time to really think about that kind of stuff. I'm too busy critiquing everything else about the show to even think about the fact that it's actually ME on there.
Celebrities Defined: How old were you when you came out?
John Simpson: The first time I told someone I was gay, I was 19.
Celebrities Defined: How did your family react when they found out?
John Simpson: "Well of course we knew! It's about time you told us!"
Celebrities Defined: How did you meet Justin?
John Simpson: We met online, which is pretty embarassing to say, but it's true. I had never done online dating before.
... so there IS hope for me.
Celebrities Defined: Do the two of you have a special song?
John Simpson: (laughs) We don't, actually. It's something we actively work on. There's a lot of songs we both enjoy, but nothing yet has ever become "our" song.
Celebrities Defined: What has been your best production endeavor?
John Simpson: Definitely the Christmas episode that we did this past season on "Chris & John to the Rescue". It's really special to me. I worked my ass off on it, and I thought it really showed.
Believe me, it did.
Celebrities Defined: And the worst?
John Simpson: Well, Chris and I made dozens of short films back in the day. I think any of those could qualify for this answer.
Celebrities Defined: Are you more of a book person or a movie person?
John Simpson: Television person! I rarely read books; it's too exhausting! They've created movies and television - why be told a story through such a primative means? (laughs)
Celebrities Defined: So then, what's your favorite movie?
John Simpson: Love, Actually. I could watch that movie indefinitely!
Celebrities Defined: How about your least favorite movie?
John Simpson: John Carpenter's The Thing, The Lord of the Rings, Operation Dumbo Drop, The Return... the list could go on!
Celebrities Defined: If you could meet anyone from history, who would it be?
John Simpson: Anyone involved with the Stonewall Riots.
Well said.
Celebrities Defined: What is your highest aspiration as a producer?
John Simpson: My highest aspiration is to be doing what I'm doing now with "Chris and John to the Rescue", but at a higher level - perhaps bring something like what we're doing to a more mainstream audience. I'd also like to eventually get involved with television networks, in terms of programming development, scheduling, etc.
Celebrities Defined: What advice would you give to those who are aspiring to make it in the production business?
John Simpson: Intern for free! It's the only way to get anywhere, and start making your own stuff, and just practice. Keep doing what you love to do, even if you have to work other crappy jobs to do it.
Celebrities Defined: What’s on the agenda for the next season of Chris and John to the Rescue?
John Simpson: Well, one of the twists for the new season is that we're shooting it entirely on location in the gorgeous Provincetown, Mass, which is very exciting for us!
Celebrities Defined: That sounds excellent! What kind of rescue missions do you have lined up for the show this season?
John Simpson: Well, I can't give too much away at this time... but let's just say that I'm sure we're definitely going to be interacting with some really fun characters! Although I'm not sure if anyone will ever live up to the level of Brian Doyle.
Celebrities Defined: Word on the street is that you've recruited local talent from here in MA to assist you with the show. Does this rumor hold water?
There's nothing like a shameless plug for yourself.
John Simpson: (laughs) It's true! We have a top-secret producer working for us in MA. He's been a huge help, as we're stuck here planning the season from Toronto.
I don't think he's so "top-secret" anymore...
Celebrities Defined: If you could interview any famous person, who would it be and why?
John Simpson: Rosie O'Donnell. She's my idol in life, and I feel like I could talk with her for days and days.
Celebrities Defined: John, thank you so much for granting me some of your time. I cannot wait to see the next season of Chris and John to the Rescue! I'm sure it will be of the utmost caliber!
John Simpson: Well, I'm glad you have high hopes! We definitely do as well. We just thank everyone for watching the show and giving us their support, it really means a lot.
You can take a glimpse into the work of John Simpson Productions' "Chris and John to the Rescue" at www.chrisandjohnonline.com
Thursday, July 12, 2007
100 Dates, 100 Boys - Inside the Mind of a Genius
I recently had the chance to sit down with Rhode Island native Kevin Broccoli, creator of the blog, "100 Dates, 100 Boys." It could be NBC's next hit sitcom, without a doubt. It is also the singular inspiration for this blog.
The following is my exclusive, one-on-one interview with the Dating Grand-Master. For any of you who may be dating-impaired, read closely. In fact, don't just read closely... STUDY.
Celebrities Defined: Looking back on the guys you've dated during the blog, what's your biggest regret?
Kevin Broccoli: Wow, this going to sound amazing, but I don't think I have one.
Celebrities Defined: What was the biggest highlight?
Kevin Broccoli: I couldn't name just one, but probably the ending will be!
Celebrities Defined: What will you do when you’re done with the 100 dates blog? Will you start another countdown?
Kevin Broccoli: Not another countdown, no, but something has come up recently that I might want to look into. It’s a lot more on the serious side though.
Celebrities Defined: Want to give us any clues?
Kevin Broccoli: This guy I used to date - he's even mentioned in the top five dates blog - he contacted me and I thought he had completely disappeared off the face of the planet, but the call was kinda sketchy and it sounded like something was wrong with him, so I kind of want to find him and make sure he's all right. I've already done a little digging, and I think this might be an endeavor.
Celebrities Defined: And this will be the topic of your next blog series; finding him?
Kevin Broccoli: Possibly. I'm definitely not starting anything until September.
Celebrities Defined: Describe your perfect first date.
Kevin Broccoli: One with a good connection. It doesn't really matter what I do on a date, it's more about how strong the connection I have with someone is.
Celebrities Defined: Is your favorite restaurant still Paragon?
Kevin Broccoli: You know what, I'm going to go trashy and say Johnny Rockets.
How can you be trashy with a taste for 1950’s diners?
Celebrities Defined: What’s your favorite drink? (That was partially a joke; Kevin doesn’t drink alcoholic beverages).
Kevin Broccoli: (laughs) Sprite!
Celebrities Defined: You work in a library, so you must have read a lot of books. What's your favorite book?
Kevin Broccoli: East of Eden.
Celebrities Defined: What is your least favorite book?
Kevin Broccoli: Tess of the Durbevilles.
Celebrities Defined: If you were getting married tomorrow, (try to disregard the personal affects of a couple's song), what song would you want as your first dance?
Kevin Broccoli: “Sunday” from Sunday in the Park with George.
Celebrities Defined: Favorite recording artist?
Kevin Broccoli: Tina Turner.
Celebrities Defined: Least favorite?
Kevin Broccoli: Sheryl Crow.
Celebrities Defined: Favorite movie?
Kevin Broccoli: It's a Wonderful Life.
Celebrities Defined: Least favorite?
Kevin Broccoli: Josie and the (f___ing) Pussycats
Celebrities Defined: Is that a re-make we’ve missed, or are you throwing random profanity in there?
Kevin Broccoli: Random profanity.
Celebrities Defined: As long as we're on the same page.
Get it, same page, and he works in a library? Ok moving on...
Celebrities Defined: If you were going to adopt a newborn baby tomorrow, what sex would you prefer to adopt and what would the child’s name be?
Kevin Broccoli: A boy, Ethan.
Celebrities Defined: Why Ethan?
Kevin Broccoli: I like the sound of it
That is important, to like the sound of your own child’s name.
Celebrities Defined: What was the "final straw" in creating the 100 dates blog?
Kevin Broccoli: The last breakup. It was in the last blog - the top five dates - I dated a guy and it just ended horribly strictly due to fate, and I just thought, “okay, so I'm terrified of dating again, so let's just dive right in, and make it fun!”
Celebrities Defined: And that got you 100 dates in just over a year?
Where do I sign up for that course?!
Kevin Broccoli: Well, the goal was always to have it done in a year. When you give yourself a deadline, you end up forcing a lot of things to happen that wouldn’t' normally happen.
Celebrities Defined: What advice would you give to those who can't seem to meet their dating "goals"?
Kevin Broccoli: Whenever you're on a date, be the most honest version of yourself that you can be, put as much out there as possible, and that way you're giving the other person the opportunity to take it or leave it.
Celebrities Defined: With date 100 fast approaching, (two documented dates away), will you continue to chronicle your dating life in another blog?
Kevin Broccoli: Absolutely not! I believe in leaving the party while it's still going on. Once something is done, it's done. Writing about dating - for now - is done.
Celebrities Defined: Do you think you may have subconsciously avoided getting into a relationship with any of the guys you've dated during this blog in order to finish the blog?
Kevin Broccoli: Well, if you read early on, I pretty much declared that I was going to finish it no matter what, even if a relationship came along. I think we've given up that glorious period where you can be dating someone and dating other people at the same time. I feel like now, when you go on a great first date with someone, you're expected to follow that through myopically until you know where it's going to end up, and immediately cease exploring any other options, and that just doesn't make sense to me. I probably would have dated the person on a semi-serious level, but still continued to go out on dates with other people, and let the other person know that was the case. Had I found someone, hopefully they would have hung around long enough for me to finish. Let's say I found someone at date 90 and was like, “oh my God, this person is perfect!” All they would have to do is hang around for ten more dates.
Celebrities Defined: But why would you make that person hang around if you felt they were a perfect fit? Is it sacrificing life for the sake of journalism?
Kevin Broccoli: No, because I would never know if someone was a perfect fit from one date or even ten. The perfect fit would be the guy there at the finish line, in my opinion. Or at least, the guy closest to a perfect fit.
Celebrities Defined: Who do you perceive to be waiting for you at the finish line?
Kevin Broccoli: I don't know, I'll guess I'll see when I get there. But I mean, what does "waiting" for me mean? I wouldn't ignore that person. I still see Charlie and Jesse all the time. Waiting for me to say "let's be boyfriends?" I think the one thing I learned from doing this blog is that it's not that simple.
Celebrities Defined: For many, the end of your blog is much like the ending of a television series. Some feel as though they're losing a connection to something they feel a part of. What can you say to those people?
Kevin Broccoli: Take up stamp collecting... just kidding! I love love love love talking to people, so I'm going to remind everyone at the end of the blog to leave me their e-mail addresses or contact info so that if something new does happen in September, I can let everybody know about it.
I'd like to thank Kevin from the bottom of my heart for everything he’s done with the blog; for sharing his life online and giving us all something to look forward to as he posted each date.
Kevin - best of luck in all your future endeavors, personally and professionally. I know you'll go far!
"100 Dates, 100 Boys" can be viewed at http://100dates100boys.blogspot.com/.
The following is my exclusive, one-on-one interview with the Dating Grand-Master. For any of you who may be dating-impaired, read closely. In fact, don't just read closely... STUDY.
Celebrities Defined: Looking back on the guys you've dated during the blog, what's your biggest regret?
Kevin Broccoli: Wow, this going to sound amazing, but I don't think I have one.
Celebrities Defined: What was the biggest highlight?
Kevin Broccoli: I couldn't name just one, but probably the ending will be!
Celebrities Defined: What will you do when you’re done with the 100 dates blog? Will you start another countdown?
Kevin Broccoli: Not another countdown, no, but something has come up recently that I might want to look into. It’s a lot more on the serious side though.
Celebrities Defined: Want to give us any clues?
Kevin Broccoli: This guy I used to date - he's even mentioned in the top five dates blog - he contacted me and I thought he had completely disappeared off the face of the planet, but the call was kinda sketchy and it sounded like something was wrong with him, so I kind of want to find him and make sure he's all right. I've already done a little digging, and I think this might be an endeavor.
Celebrities Defined: And this will be the topic of your next blog series; finding him?
Kevin Broccoli: Possibly. I'm definitely not starting anything until September.
Celebrities Defined: Describe your perfect first date.
Kevin Broccoli: One with a good connection. It doesn't really matter what I do on a date, it's more about how strong the connection I have with someone is.
Celebrities Defined: Is your favorite restaurant still Paragon?
Kevin Broccoli: You know what, I'm going to go trashy and say Johnny Rockets.
How can you be trashy with a taste for 1950’s diners?
Celebrities Defined: What’s your favorite drink? (That was partially a joke; Kevin doesn’t drink alcoholic beverages).
Kevin Broccoli: (laughs) Sprite!
Celebrities Defined: You work in a library, so you must have read a lot of books. What's your favorite book?
Kevin Broccoli: East of Eden.
Celebrities Defined: What is your least favorite book?
Kevin Broccoli: Tess of the Durbevilles.
Celebrities Defined: If you were getting married tomorrow, (try to disregard the personal affects of a couple's song), what song would you want as your first dance?
Kevin Broccoli: “Sunday” from Sunday in the Park with George.
Celebrities Defined: Favorite recording artist?
Kevin Broccoli: Tina Turner.
Celebrities Defined: Least favorite?
Kevin Broccoli: Sheryl Crow.
Celebrities Defined: Favorite movie?
Kevin Broccoli: It's a Wonderful Life.
Celebrities Defined: Least favorite?
Kevin Broccoli: Josie and the (f___ing) Pussycats
Celebrities Defined: Is that a re-make we’ve missed, or are you throwing random profanity in there?
Kevin Broccoli: Random profanity.
Celebrities Defined: As long as we're on the same page.
Get it, same page, and he works in a library? Ok moving on...
Celebrities Defined: If you were going to adopt a newborn baby tomorrow, what sex would you prefer to adopt and what would the child’s name be?
Kevin Broccoli: A boy, Ethan.
Celebrities Defined: Why Ethan?
Kevin Broccoli: I like the sound of it
That is important, to like the sound of your own child’s name.
Celebrities Defined: What was the "final straw" in creating the 100 dates blog?
Kevin Broccoli: The last breakup. It was in the last blog - the top five dates - I dated a guy and it just ended horribly strictly due to fate, and I just thought, “okay, so I'm terrified of dating again, so let's just dive right in, and make it fun!”
Celebrities Defined: And that got you 100 dates in just over a year?
Where do I sign up for that course?!
Kevin Broccoli: Well, the goal was always to have it done in a year. When you give yourself a deadline, you end up forcing a lot of things to happen that wouldn’t' normally happen.
Celebrities Defined: What advice would you give to those who can't seem to meet their dating "goals"?
Kevin Broccoli: Whenever you're on a date, be the most honest version of yourself that you can be, put as much out there as possible, and that way you're giving the other person the opportunity to take it or leave it.
Celebrities Defined: With date 100 fast approaching, (two documented dates away), will you continue to chronicle your dating life in another blog?
Kevin Broccoli: Absolutely not! I believe in leaving the party while it's still going on. Once something is done, it's done. Writing about dating - for now - is done.
Celebrities Defined: Do you think you may have subconsciously avoided getting into a relationship with any of the guys you've dated during this blog in order to finish the blog?
Kevin Broccoli: Well, if you read early on, I pretty much declared that I was going to finish it no matter what, even if a relationship came along. I think we've given up that glorious period where you can be dating someone and dating other people at the same time. I feel like now, when you go on a great first date with someone, you're expected to follow that through myopically until you know where it's going to end up, and immediately cease exploring any other options, and that just doesn't make sense to me. I probably would have dated the person on a semi-serious level, but still continued to go out on dates with other people, and let the other person know that was the case. Had I found someone, hopefully they would have hung around long enough for me to finish. Let's say I found someone at date 90 and was like, “oh my God, this person is perfect!” All they would have to do is hang around for ten more dates.
Celebrities Defined: But why would you make that person hang around if you felt they were a perfect fit? Is it sacrificing life for the sake of journalism?
Kevin Broccoli: No, because I would never know if someone was a perfect fit from one date or even ten. The perfect fit would be the guy there at the finish line, in my opinion. Or at least, the guy closest to a perfect fit.
Celebrities Defined: Who do you perceive to be waiting for you at the finish line?
Kevin Broccoli: I don't know, I'll guess I'll see when I get there. But I mean, what does "waiting" for me mean? I wouldn't ignore that person. I still see Charlie and Jesse all the time. Waiting for me to say "let's be boyfriends?" I think the one thing I learned from doing this blog is that it's not that simple.
Celebrities Defined: For many, the end of your blog is much like the ending of a television series. Some feel as though they're losing a connection to something they feel a part of. What can you say to those people?
Kevin Broccoli: Take up stamp collecting... just kidding! I love love love love talking to people, so I'm going to remind everyone at the end of the blog to leave me their e-mail addresses or contact info so that if something new does happen in September, I can let everybody know about it.
I'd like to thank Kevin from the bottom of my heart for everything he’s done with the blog; for sharing his life online and giving us all something to look forward to as he posted each date.
Kevin - best of luck in all your future endeavors, personally and professionally. I know you'll go far!
"100 Dates, 100 Boys" can be viewed at http://100dates100boys.blogspot.com/.
The Definition of a Celebrity
Celebrity: noun.
1. a famous or well-known person.
A famous or well-known person...
Famous: adjective.
1. having a widespread reputation, usually of a favorable nature; renowned; celebrated.
Hold it.
Usually of a favorable nature...
If they aren't favorable by majority, why would they be a celebrity? Can murderers and cons and felons qualify as being a celebrity, or do you think they had to have been a celebrity before they broke a law?
Interesting.
I am a common, average man. Well, as common and average as one can be nowadays. I am not affiliated with a news network or any other reporting agency. Celebrity, by my definition, is one who achieves fame and success, both professionally and personally... but that's just me.
We here at Celebrities Defined, have embarked on a journey: to seek out and interview local, political, scientific, and Hollywood celebrities. The interviews we conduct will be real, personal, and meant solely for this blog. Any quotations from interviews conducted in this blog should be used with the proper citations and/or permission from Celebrities Defined.
To recommend a celebrity, please write to us at CelebritiesDefined@gmail.com.
Thanks, and Happy Reading!
Matt Trowbridge
Creator, Editor, and CEO
Celebrities Defined
1. a famous or well-known person.
A famous or well-known person...
Famous: adjective.
1. having a widespread reputation, usually of a favorable nature; renowned; celebrated.
Hold it.
Usually of a favorable nature...
If they aren't favorable by majority, why would they be a celebrity? Can murderers and cons and felons qualify as being a celebrity, or do you think they had to have been a celebrity before they broke a law?
Interesting.
I am a common, average man. Well, as common and average as one can be nowadays. I am not affiliated with a news network or any other reporting agency. Celebrity, by my definition, is one who achieves fame and success, both professionally and personally... but that's just me.
We here at Celebrities Defined, have embarked on a journey: to seek out and interview local, political, scientific, and Hollywood celebrities. The interviews we conduct will be real, personal, and meant solely for this blog. Any quotations from interviews conducted in this blog should be used with the proper citations and/or permission from Celebrities Defined.
To recommend a celebrity, please write to us at CelebritiesDefined@gmail.com.
Thanks, and Happy Reading!
Matt Trowbridge
Creator, Editor, and CEO
Celebrities Defined
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