Considering the continued flood of reality shows thudding across our nation's TV screens, I thought I would give a little insight into what I know about the process. I have friends who are involved with the NBC hit show, "Last Comic Standing", so I know a little about what happens behind the scenes.

If you haven't seen Last Comic Standing, as reality shows, it's I think about as good as gets, as at least the contestants on the show have natural talent. Unlike a show like American Idol, the comics on LCS not only perform, but they have written and crafted their material, instead of doing a kareoke performance.

I know a lot of standup comics who get angry about the LCS, as the producers of the show don't pick the 10 best standup's, but the goal of the show, like all reality shows is to get a diverse group of people that will appeal to most key demographics. They also are looking for contestants who will create tension.

VH1 is running a very illuminating documentary this month on the behind the scene truths of all reality shows. It really shows how contestants on these shows are manipulated and edited to appear more interesting than they really are. Hmm, where's the reality in that?

I've had opportunites to audition for various reality shows and have turned them down because of the manipulation and editing, which can make you appear like a complete imbecile.

The only reality show that has ever seemed interesting to me is a show that will be airing soon on Showtime titled "The American Candidate". The premise is that the producers of the show will follow 10 people who will run for President. To even qualify for this show, you had to be born in the US and be 35 years of age.

The questionairre they had you fill out was very extensive, with over 100 essay questions, such as WHAT DO YOU FEEL AMERICA'S ROLE SHOULD BE IN THE GLOBAL COMMUNITY or IF YOU COULD CHANGE ONE THING ABOUT OUR POLITICAL SYSTEM, WHAT WOULD IT BE? I doubt these are asked during the screening process for "Fear Factor" or "Joe Millionaire".

I was contacted by the producers, but didn't make it to the final round, but I still plan on watcing the show, as the previews I've seen on Showtime make it seem like quality programming.