I Know My Kid’s a Star Recap - Episode 6 - Like Sands Through the Hourglass…
Want another metaphor?
That’s kind of like an execution lineup, no?
As always, we begin where we left off:
Gigi’s now treating Alai with compassion, and McKenzie and Shannon are talking about toning it down.
…which prompts McKenzie to make puppet-like motions, of course. Note that I said “talking about.”
And also, there’s this:
And if the Golden Girls theme song isn’t in your head…uh, now it is. Funny, we will soon come to find that if we threw a party, invited everyone we knew, Pam would throw it all under the bus.
But for now, she’s a pal and a confidant.
The parents get a note and a box.
The note says that today they’ll decide which team gets immunity. Ah, don’t you just love it when reality shows allow the opportunity for institutionalized conniving? In the box are scripts for today’s audition: a soap opera. Get your cryin’ clothes on, kids!
Just another day on the job for McKenzie!
Gigi explains that she’s doing her best to lessen the pressure on Alai.
And you know, Alai does seem so much happier and brighter this episode. It’s a nice sign of hope that Hollywood hasn’t trampled her spirit before she’s even really arrived.
Mary Jo works alone, per Marki’s advice to fire her mother as her acting coach.
This lasts for about five minutes before she gets frustrated and calls on her mother’s help. Tween angst ensues.
McKenzie is over-the-top as always and Shannon repeatedly corrects her reading.
How can she not yell, when her soul is howling? McKenzie also kind of adorably breaks down.
It’s easy to sympathize with a kid that’s this conscientious. She goes on, at one point exclaiming, “I can never be better than Cheyenne!” McKenzie, none of us can. I took one look at Cheyenne during the first episode and I said, “I give up.” It’s Cheyenne’s world, we just dust her Oscars in it. But for real, Shannon offers the single best piece of advice that anyone on this show has ever given. Actually, it’s probably the best piece of advice that anyone has ever given, period. She tells her daughter not to compare herself to anyone else — “Just work hard on being a better you.” That, people, is the key to possessing the secret of joy. For real, for real.
Later, Pam and Gigi discuss the immunity decision.
Gigi straight up tells Pam that she’ll vote for her daughter if Pam votes for Gigi’s. Pam agrees to this. However, since Shannon and Sandy are tight, and they’ll most likely form a similar alliance, Gigi points out that…
It’s really awesome that the loner is the one with all the power. Helene agrees.
She resolves to go with the kid who performs the worst, as that will provide the least amount of competition for Cheyenne down the line.
The parents and kids hike to the sound stage the auditions will be shot on.
They’ll be performing alongside soapop vet Andrea Evans. The scene involves the children finding out that their recently deceased mom wasn’t their birth mother — Andrea is. Tears and ranting ensue, or at least, they’re supposed to per the script. Gian is first up.
Marki isn’t feeling Gian’s lack of feeling. He’s not in the moment, says her.
McKenzie slips up and forgets a line, but soldiers on, winning the praise of the judges.
Mary Jo takes unpredictable beats. Danny proclaims her “more than good enough,” which is great. Remember: you don’t have to be the best, you just have to be not the worst.
Alai creates unintended laughs merely from the circumstance — she has to yell out, “That’s a lie!” That’s not a lie; that’s Alai. Yuks notwithstanding, Alai didn’t overplay the scene and did a great job.
And then there’s Cheyenne.
She more than compensates for McKenzie’s toning things down. Her overblown reading causes Marki to note…
…you know what she means, but still: ugh. When lingo attacks.
After auditions, it’s time for the parents to reveal which kid they thought did the best. Or something. Sandy goes with McKenzie, explaining, “I need Shannon to survive in the house!” Well, put your strategy all out there for everyone to fondle, why don’tcha? Shannon, on the other hand, picks Alai, saying that she did the best and so it’s only fair. As planned, Gigi goes with Mary Jo, praising her for doing some “amazing stuff.” At first, Pam says that she doesn’t want to vote. Well, give me the vapors and call me Blanche Devereaux! Danny threatens to send her home if she doesn’t vote, and so after being pushed, Pam goes with Gian. She says it’s “more of a strategic thing.” Well, duh.
And so, even though things didn’t go exactly according to plan, Helene still has the final vote. She’s shown all signs of perceptiveness, and so she probably figured that Gian would be coming home, and ends up going with Alai. Alai is all smiles, not realizing that she was a mere pawn in this game. Perhaps it is something that Alai been accustomed to for a while now.
At home, Gigi tries to figure out what’s up with Pam.
But that is something that Pam will not do. Gigi tries getting her to open up again…
…and Pam’s all, “You’re not gonna get it, Gigi.” By it, I can only assume the biggest gift with the card attached that says, “Thank you for being a friend.”
Mary Jo thinks this whole thing is stupid.
See?
Alai agrees.
Articulate and insightful, at last Alai gets her chance to shine. See how good for your kids easing up on the pressure can be?
Marki’s parents meeting takes place. It is mostly uneventful, save for Helene’s revelation that Cheyenne’s over-the-top performance was by design: they decided to take that approach since the audition was for a soap opera. Fair enough! Even if the judges didn’t like the result, they can’t really knock the rationale. Sandy flat-out says that she doesn’t want to be there. And for that, basically, she and Gian go home.
Gian’s a total wreck.
He kinda says some disparaging words about Danny Bonaduce on the ride home. That’s the spirit! Taking out your aggression on a third party should have you feeling better in no time. Just ask the parents!
April 27th, 2008 at 2:50 pm
I have stayed away from these boards due to the fact that it can get extremely harsh. I do feel the need to come on here and defend what Helene said about Shannon talking with her about the challenge and immunity. I was not present for the conversation but in someones post they asked why Helene did not say anything at the elimination. Helene did say something the producers just chose to edit the show a different direction. What I agree with and has been pointed out is there is editing and this goes for all parties involved. Everyone on that show is human and everyone on that show had good times and bad. In my opinion that is ok because in life that is the case as well. It is up to the producers to decide what moments to show and that is their right. I think we all knew this before going into the show and that is the chance you have to take. We were on the show and have no idea what they will and will not show. I think all of us want them to show us when we were at our best but then thay would not make good television.
Having said this all the kids on the show were wonderful and all talented. I wish all of them well in the future and I know they will all succeed.
Pam Glover
April 27th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
I’m ruting for the couple from baton rouge la keep up the good work southern girl!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! that my home town
April 27th, 2008 at 10:28 am
Want to see another detrimentally dedicated stage mom?
Don’t miss the video, “STAGE MOM: SORROW IN A SHOEBOX”. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry…
youtube.com/hyltonproductions
April 27th, 2008 at 10:08 am
Shannon. McKenzie , oh by the way is definitely a star too.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:20 am
Shannon. McKenzie is so adorable, respectful and just a great kid. God bless you and her. I hope she wins.
Helen, Cheyenne is so talented and is definitely a star and will always do great.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:08 am
As the father of a child actor, I have found this show to be very entertaining. I asked my son who is the best actor and he responded, Cheyenne. I asked him who he would want to hang out with and he said McKenzie. I think she and her mom have acquitted theirselves extremely well under the constant eye of the camera. Also being from the South, we appreciated the politeness and respect for adults that McKenzie shows. Cheyenne definitely has skill, it was a shame that she and her mom were shown making some arrogant comments in the last episode. Talent will shine, but Hollywood will temper the arrogrance over time.
April 27th, 2008 at 5:37 am
I don’t think you have to worry about how Alai will turn out. She”ll likely end up strong, creative, and with far reaching goals. She is NOT her mother - and I see through Gigi’s tactics, to a mother who loves and supports her child; but who is used to doing it the hard way.
From the beginning Helene annoyed me far more because though she has a very talented child she is smug, arrogant, and fake: Apparently believing that you have to step on others to stand up for yourself. I’d worry about HER child more if she takes on her mother’s manipulative ways.
April 27th, 2008 at 1:02 am
Shannon,
I have a 6-year-old niece, so I have lots of experience with little girls who NEVER SHUT UP (LOL)! My niece talks from sunup to sundown … AND in her sleep! The constant questions sure can wear you out, but hey … it’s a sign you’ve got a very bright kid! With her personality and spirit, McKenzie will succeed in whatever life path she chooses!
April 26th, 2008 at 11:32 pm
I can’t wait to see how this ends.
April 26th, 2008 at 10:09 pm
I saw the same show and thought it was weird she was on Missing Persons…….. I came here to see if it was really Sandy………
Kinda of weird……….
April 26th, 2008 at 9:37 pm
I was just watching “missing person unit” on trutv…..it was an episode of Gian;s Mom Sandy…. something about her sister that had been missing. Just thought it was kind of interesting that she was on another show….. Truely sorry about her sister though.
April 26th, 2008 at 9:02 pm
I CANT STAND HELENE AND HER CHILD. IF SHE WAS THAT GOOD WHY U ON A REALITY SHOW CHEYENNE WOULD HAVE ALREADY BEEN DA NEXT CHILD STAR.
April 26th, 2008 at 8:56 pm
i love this show it is the best i think some of the girls are just here for money but anothers are here for the career i think i am better than some of the girls and my mom isn’t a contol freak lol
April 26th, 2008 at 4:41 pm
I love watching this show. The children are all adorable.
My favorites:
Alai - this child has such a heart for the Lord!! Precious!!
Hayley (Red) - You should take your act to Broadway - there are many leading redheaded roles and you are so cute!!
Cameron - Your attitude after elimination was wonderful - you will do well in whatever you choose!
McKenzie - So cute and so compassionate - you can tell she genuinely cares when another child is eliminated.
Anyway, all of the children are cute, but these four have the best attitudes and that will last much longer than any show business career.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:58 pm
Helene,
The only people that will believe what you are saying about Shannon are those who are jealous of her and Mackenzie. It is impossible to be on a reality show and be fake for 8 weeks. You should know. You tried in the beginning but now the real you is starting to emerge. It is obvious they are good Christians and that is why your ugly words don’t bother her. You need to focus more on changing your and your daughters attitude rather then bashing others.
April 26th, 2008 at 11:08 am
Claire,
There is one other thing about the show I would like to add. Not that what you are seeing about the kids in inaccurate only that I wish they would have shown how much fun they had. The love and laughter those kis shared is priceless.
April 26th, 2008 at 10:34 am
BMP,
The things you said about McKenzie really touched my heart and made me laugh at the same time. My husband and I try really hard to keep a good balance between being their parents, but still having lots of fun. Also, I really laughed when you said she is the type of company you would enjoy in real life. She might drive you crazy. SHE NEVER SHUTS UP! She is ALWAYS either asking questions, entertaining or just talking so there is no silence. Sometimes I ask her “McKenzie will you please be quite for just 5 minutes.” It never works. Then I got smart and decided to play the “Quiet Game”. That always works because she is very competitive and wants to win.
I hope you are enjoying the show. Keep watching.
April 26th, 2008 at 10:18 am
CLaire,
Thank you for defending me but it is not necessary. Undoubtly, my contract is a little different from Helene’s or I interpreted it differently but, after the show I tell yall everyting McKenzie has been doing. Secondly, I find it very humorous that she has talked to any of the parents on the show since we were told specifically not to talk to anyone affiliated with the show until the final episode airs. As far as her calling me names, that truly doesn’t bother me. Just like the producers of the show said, “On reality shows you can’t make a bad person look good nor a good person look bad.” So, what you are seeing is very close to how it happened. However, they are only showing Gigi at her worst instead of also showing the good things she did like sewing for Alai, teaching the kids dances and making tie-dye clothes with the kids.
I understand why some of the people acted the way they did in the house. It is a very stressful enviroment. Think about living with people you don’t really know, who have totally different morals than you, and their lifestyles are completely different. What is sad to me is that the show is over and some of them are still acting the same way. It also saddens me because McKenzie can’t wait to talk to and see all the kids again. She really misses them. When she saw Cheyenne’s commerical she came running and screaming to me. She was so exicited and happy for her and so was I.
Hopefully, once the show is over, all of this madness will settle down and we can all sit back and laugh at ourselves.
Thank again!
April 26th, 2008 at 4:54 am
Helene;
Your kid is very talented and you are a good acting coach - Why stoop to mud slinging? It does you no credit to tear apart the other moms and kids publicly, no matter what may have happened behind the scenes.
If your kid is a winner (in life) why even worry about what others do? Cream rises to the top, don’t look down.
April 26th, 2008 at 4:33 am
Gigi needs to go. Her daughter does not have the talent or the cute’ness factor that the other kids have. Gigi is so anoying that at times she makes the show hard to watch. She reminds me of kids scraping their nails down the chalk board.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:35 am
helene rocks…..and chey is gonna win!
April 26th, 2008 at 3:33 am
Sorry Claire,
That is the truth of how it went down, whether you like it or not. Shannon is just as manipulative as any one of these other mothers. She also appeared to be nice and respective regarding my relationship with my mother and then she turned on me and said something nasty and hateful about my relationship with my mother whom I am very close with. I have also heard from other mothers on the show that she was manipulative and had them do her dirty work for her.
My (untalented) daughter has booked at least 4 - 5 jobs since the show (McDonalds, Disney, Dancing With The Stars, Modeling Show with Kim Kardashian, PSA). It is NOT against the VH1 contract to let the public know what your child has booked. I go through VH1 on everything. What has MacKenzie booked?
Helene
April 26th, 2008 at 3:31 am
gigi is such a &*^%*. so annoying, obviously the drama queen. marki was totally right about her daughter turning into a wreck in the future.i like mary jo… to an extent. her moms a &*(&* too. i miss that dumb@$$ rocky.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:01 am
I love my baby cousin McKenzie… when i read all this nice stuff it makes me feel so honored to have been able to have my nanny in my life..
she truly is amazing.:D:D
thank everyone for their support…they really are good people and deserve everything that they have
i love you nanny and zz clairee
April 26th, 2008 at 12:39 am
ARGH! I keep trying to type a word but it won’t show up correctly, POSSIBLY because the first three letters spell an obscenity. So, as much as it pains me to do this, I’m going to misspell the word and hope that fixes the problem:
“It’s refreshing to see a child who addresses adults with tytles of respect”
April 26th, 2008 at 12:36 am
Dunno what happened in my first post, but the second sentence was SUPPOSED to say:
“It’s refreshing to see a child who addresses adults with %%^ LES of respect”
April 26th, 2008 at 12:34 am
Toned-down or cranked up to 100, Mackenzie has charmed me from Day One! It’s refreshing to see a child who addresses adults with !(_ les of respect … I was tickled silly when she said, “Hi, MISTER Danny!” As far as I, a mere viewer, can tell about the relationship between two people on TV, Mackenzie and Shannon seem to have such a HEALTHY relationship. Shannon is friendly with her child without being her best buddy … it’s always clear who’s the parent. At the same time, Mackenzie is allowed to express her feelings and opinions, but she’s never disrespectful. And even when Shannon pushes Mackenzie to work on her lines, capture the emotion of a scene, etc., you still see a LOT of love and affection between the two. I love Mackenzie’s intelligence and spunkiness, and she seems to have a genuinely GOOD heart. I like various aspects of ALL the children’s personalities, but Mackenzie more than any of the others strikes me as a kid whose company I’d enjoy in real life!
April 25th, 2008 at 10:37 pm
noooooo!!!!!! gian should have stayed! he rocked!!
April 25th, 2008 at 9:31 pm
Gian should have stayed!
April 25th, 2008 at 8:36 pm
HK,
JUST BY WATCHING THE SHOW AND THE EXTRAS I FIND IT HARD TO BELIEVE THAT IS HOW IT WENT DOWN WITH SHANNON. FIRST OF ALL IF THAT IS HOW IT HAPPENED WHY DIDN’T YOU SAY SOMETHING ON STAGE WHEN YOU GUYS WERE TALKING ABOUT IT? EITHER YOU ARE SCARED OF SHANNON OR SHE WAS TELLING THE TRUTH. I BELEIVE SHE WAS TELLING THE TRUTH. SECONDLY, FACE THE MUSIC, YOUR DAUGHTER SUCKED IN THIS LAST SHOW AND MACKENZIE WAS GREAT THAT IS REASON YOU ARE TRYING TO BASH SHANNON. IT’S OBVIOUS YOU ARE VICIOUS AND YOUR DAUGHTER THINKS SHE IS ALL THAT. YOU CAN’T STAND THE FACT THAT AMERICA IS SEEING THE THE TWO OF YOU IN A REAL LIGHT AND THAT MACKENZIE IS OUTSHINING YOUR DAUGHTER. SORRY HELENE YOU CAN’T WIN THEM ALL