Daytime Divas
By Melissa Camacho,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Campy talk show satire mixes bad behavior with soapy drama.
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Daytime Divas
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What's the Story?
Based on a book written by former The View co-host Star Jones, DAYTIME DIVAS is a comedy about the tumultuous behind-the-scenes world of five female co-hosts. Maxine Robinson (played by Vanessa Williams) is the lead host of The Lunch Hour, a fictitious talk show that also stars the young and wild Kibby Ainsely (Chloe Bridges), underdog-with-an-attitude Mo Evans (Tichina Arnold), conservative Heather Flynn-Kellogg (Fiona Gubelmann), and sneaky Mina Sandoval (Camille Guaty). Their larger-than-life personalities, different points of view, and personal problems lead to lots of conflict. Luckily, the show's producer, Shawn (McKinley Freeman), who happens to be Maxine Robinson's son, is usually able to keep them from destroying each other. But Shawn has his own secrets, as do other members of the production staff, which also leads to lots of over-the-top turmoil.
Is It Any Good?
This soapy but entertaining series parodies some of the well-publicized conflicts, and behind-the-scenes secrets, that make daytime talk TV the subject of tabloid fodder. Some of it's clearly poking fun at The View. Other narratives are inspired from lesser-known events in the industry that have taken place over the years. However, while the co-hosts are portrayed as strong women throughout, they also appear as unwilling (or unable) to support each other in the difficult, patriarchal industry.
There are lots of campy and fun moments, but thanks to a lack of sharp writing, some of the humor is more silly than smart. Many of the plot lines are predictable, too. But the appearances by actresses such as Tamera Mowry and Kristen Johnston, as well as daytime celebs such as Star Jones and current View co-host Sara Haines, add some richness to it. Nonetheless, what makes Daytime Divas appealing is the idea that the over-the-top behavior it features might actually be reality.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what it's like to work on a talk show. Is everything as calm backstage as it is in front of the cameras? What kinds of other things have to get done to make the show happen?
Daytime Divas is based on stories that people who work in the industry have shared about their experiences. How much of what is featured on the show do you think is true? Or are these characterizations based on tabloid rumors and stereotypes?
TV Details
- Premiere date: June 5, 2017
- Cast: Vanessa Williams , Tichina Arnold , Chloe Bridges
- Network: VH1
- Genre: Comedy
- TV rating: TV-14
- Last updated: December 1, 2022
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