2012...Year of the Hillbilly?

Do you think the public is tired of watching the seemingly endless decadence and debauchery of the Kardashians and the Real Housewives of (fill in the blank)? Unfortunately, that’s not likely; however, an ever-expanding lineup of new reality shows this year is focusing on a different “class” of people…yup, it’s hillbillies! I guess there’s plenty of craziness to go around in this great country of ours, regardless of your social status, and no shortage of people willing to bare their souls to the rest of us on national television. I have to say, these new hillbilly shows are truly fun to watch…we’re talking some real backwoods humor…and none of the petty self-indulgence so abundant in shows featuring “city folk.” I could have never imagined some of the stuff that goes on...I must live a pretty sheltered life, I guess. If you’re ready for some laughs, check out some of the following shows. Hillbilly Handfishin’: Guides take tourists on expeditions into murky Oklahoma rivers to catch themselves a catfish with their hands or feet, otherwise known as “noodling.” Why I find this interesting is beyond me. The object of the show is to catch the biggest catfish, and those fish bite! Try sticking your foot in a hole and have something take a bite out of it. I can think of other ways to test my courage, but is sure is fun to watch! Bayou Billionaires: A real life story of a Louisiana family who strike it rich and subsequently try to make their way up the social ladder. If you liked the old Beverly Hillbillies, you’ll love this new show. Moonshiners: Chronicles the activities of illegal alcohol producers in the backwoods of Virginia, and the law enforcement forces that try to rein them in. The practice of moonshining is still alive and well, and the demand for their product is high. The show is educational in showing how moonshine is produced and distributed, but also dramatic, as it shows the lengths moonshiners go to staying one step ahead of the law. Big Shrimpin’: Shrimpers from Bayou La Batre, Alabama, competing for the biggest catch while trying to help their town rebound from Hurricane Katrina. Lots of Cajun accents and some good fishing humor. Ragin’ Cajuns: Similar to Big Shrimpin’, but on a different network. We’ll see who prevails. Swamp People: Gator-chasing Cajuns from deep in bayou country. Lots of action, lots of Cajun talking (sometimes subtitled so you can understand them), and lots of people missing lots of teeth. I guess there are not many dentists in the area. Sweet Home Alabama: CMT’s answer to The Bachelorette. I haven’t watched it, but it’s in its third season, so somebody must be. Billy the Exterminator: This show follows expert exterminator Billy on his calls for pest control. Known for his stylish black leather pants and black T-shirt, you never know what silver spike accessories he’ll be donning next. Based in Benton, Louisiana, his pests are sometimes bigger, harrier, and slimier than most of us have ever seen. I’ve seen him tackle killer bees and alligators with flair, and sometimes a few missteps along the way, but all being equal, it’s a pretty entertaining and informative show. Lucky Lizard Towing: About a family of hillbilly repo men. Shotguns, big dogs, and drunks…a dangerous profession for sure. All in all, these shows are very entertaining; and the people are more down-to-earth than most of the self-centered reality stars from the “city.” Given the choice, I would rather hang out with them any day.