The subject for today’s show was devastating divorces. The whole show was devoted to Danny Bonaduce, a former child star and his soon-to-be former wife Gretchen, who are are finalizing their divorce after 17 years. Danny has had alcohol and drug related problems that interfered with his marriage and children. He discussed how he still respects and loves his former wife, who has helped him in his recovery process. This show was one of the most emotional I’ve seen so far, because usually the male guests don’t cry, but it was very obvious how much Danny cares about Gretchen and he said something to the effect of her as a pair of wings short of being an angel, and that made him tear up. It’s also unfortunate that Gretchen is so happy to finalize the divorce, because the show kind of makes you feel like you just want them to get back together and have a nice life with their kids. The sad thing is that he wants to have a partner so badly that he said he expects to be married again within 3 weeks of the divorce being finalized.
At about 3:40, the show cut to Dr. Phil saying that the previous filming had been 1 week ago, and they would be back to talk with Gretchen. I was surprised to hear that she actually respects Danny too, but with his history, she said she can’t continue to have love for him. I really like how at the end of divorce-related shows, Dr. Phil always mentions a test on his website that you can take if you’re thinking about “calling it quits.” It basically makes sure you are ready emotionally, and sees if there’s anything you can do to salvage the relationship. That’s another reason I like the show--it really promotes healthy relationships.
I really loved the ending because it had humor and it came so naturally! Gretchen said she does want to remarry, but a lot of the “good” men in Hollywood are already taken...and she added “right Dr. Phil?” The audience laughed, and the camera cut over to his wife Robin. After the heaviness of this episode, you needed to laugh at the end.
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This entry was really in depth. I felt a connection to the guests even though I don't know their story and didn't watch the show. You did a great job establishing key points of the program and moments of break through. It's great that the show made both sides available and showed them in a sincere and sympathetic manner - classy, not Jerry Springer style. I also really appreciate that you pointed out that Dr. Phil encourages healthy relationships. I think it's really important, especially in today's society, to not always jump to divorce if issues arise. People in relationships and people in general need to learn to work through things and not jump to what might seem like the easiest conclusion. Also the optimism at the conclusion is a great way to end the show. It leaves viewers reflecting saying, "yes I've been through rough times/relationships, but there's always hope for a new one. The right person is out there somewhere." That is the kind of optimism that people everywhere need.
-jennifer allmond
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