The Instant American Dream
Donny Deutsch thinks I’m living the “instant American Dream.” At least that’s what his producers made him say last night as we squared off on his CNBC program, the “BIG IDEA with Donny Deutsch.” Booming, baritone Voiceover Man declared,
“A Southern girl next door learns how to make it in the Big Apple and take her dreams out into the wo-o-o-o-rlddddd.”
B roll: Me in a big white dress, armful of roses at my debutante ball. Granddaddy and I enjoying an aperitif at Casa Botin. An aerial shot of the Northeastern United States…what? It was all very dramatic.
Donny quizzed me about my book (“Belle of New York, 2008), “the biggest talent show on earth” (the internet) and how I got started (a little site called “Wonkette”). I wasn’t shy about declaring my admiration for Nick Denton, internet genius and founder of Gawker Media. A handful of his editors—okay, the majority of them—may love to hate me but I respect the operation and Nick’s entrepreneurial spirit.
Who else took their turn on the couch? What other “instantly famous” web celebs had the pleasure of gazing into Donny’s eyes, inadvertently licking their coffee and red wine-stained teeth as they stared at his BriteSmile? The illustrious cast of characters included a Yale grad who creates Mento and Diet Coke fountains, a stand-up comic who sings about shoes and a hot little lady by the name of Amanda Congdon who has her own ABC News webcast and a production deal with HBO. Indeed—a motley crue.
Above picture is meant to redeem last night’s “trekkie hairdo” (observation courtesy, Mamma) and overall ghastly appearance on the show. Note to self—next time, do your own hair!
May 15th, 2007 at 6:25 am
I hope Copyranter doesn’t see this! He’s not exactly a fan of DD, (understatement of the century.)
May 15th, 2007 at 8:34 am
A little notice would’ve been nice. I’m depressed that I missed the singing shoe guy.
May 15th, 2007 at 8:34 am
Well, Brooke, I thought your piece turned out very well albeit much too short. I would have much rather heard more about your adventures in the city than the parade of “talent” produced for last night’s show. However, you managed to turn heads and spark interest in what I’m sure will be a great read. Do you have any advice for me as I am being taped tomorrow for Donny’s show – a show titled “Hidden Millions in Your Kids.” I caught the “do your own hair” tidbit and should be all set with a buzzcut. No chance of me looking like Captain Kirk.
May 15th, 2007 at 11:38 am
come coiffed and camera-ready–that’s about my only bit of advice. otherwise, the producers, AP’s and camera guys are super nice and put you at east. marianne, in particular, is a doll.
May 15th, 2007 at 12:58 pm
Done – thanks for the advice. Best of luck on the book. As a westerner, it’ll be great to read about an ‘outsider’s’ take on the city. cheers.
May 16th, 2007 at 5:45 pm
I saw part of your interview on the Big Idea the other night. Good luck, and I look forward to reading your book!