I'm embarrassed to admit it, but I've never watched "The Bachelor." Or "The Bachelorette." Well, I've watched enough of it to know it's not really my jam. But its cultural significance and popularity can't be ignored. There are dozens of podcasts, fan sites, and more dedicated to all things Bachelor nation and it's one of the highest rated shows on television.

DeAnna Stagliano (Pappas) was on season 4 of "The Bachelorette"

So when I found out my friend DeAnna Stagliano (Pappas) was not only a contestant on "The Bachelor",  but also an actual Bachelorette I was shook. I had no idea this sweet woman I'd gotten to know over cocktails at the country club was on this show I have a fair amount of disdain for.

Before you judge me for judging this show, let me tell you where I'm coming from. I'm an actress, and for years I was under the impression that all these reality shows were taking away TV airtime that could go to scripted shows, and therefore, create jobs for actors like me. I assumed that these types of shows (ala "Jersey Shore") were made for people who have no taste in quality programming. Very snobby I know!

But now I realize that reality TV has a very special and important role in television. It fills a voyueristic need that people have to see how the other half lives.  I've also let go of a lot of my resentment toward reality TV because of the plethora of streaming services that offer scripted shows. I'm grown up guys!

And mostly I've learned to embrace reality TV because I've met so many wonderful people like DeAnna who are a part of the reality show family. I know you'll love hearing her story as much as I did!

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