Now that I’ve finally caught up on my DVR recordings, I’ve had the chance to watch BET’s Harlem Heights, which premiered on March 2nd. Being that I am a reality TV fanatic, I knew that I wouldn’t pass up the opportunity to see young, educated professional BGs and guys living in the culturally rich, legendary neighborhood of Harlem.
I’ve never been impressed by BET’s programming or lack thereof, but after watching the first 3 episodes, to my surprise I actually like it. The show doesn’t seem to stray from the recipe of dating/love, friendships, and drama that typically make a “reality” TV show successful. Although there seems to be a bit of cattiness brewing on the show, it’s still refreshing to see BGs and guys being primarily portrayed positively on TV.
You can catch full episodes on BET.com.
Now that it’s been on the air for 3 weeks, what do you guys think? Have you seen it or do you avoid BET at all costs? Share your thoughts!
I still try to avoid BET as much as I can, though I’ve read nothing but good reviews about Harlem Heights. So I may lift the boycott to check this show out 🙂
Hey BGG
I am a HH gal if I do say so myself. I have been beating people over the head with reminders to watch on my blog..lol
If nothing else, as you mentioned, I love seeing BGs and guys portrayed in a positive light. They are educated young WORKING professionals- love it!
I also love some of the fashion choices. BET has produced some pretty poor programming over the years but this show can not be lumped in that catergory. YAY for Harlem Heights. Oh and I totally watch that show to find new hot spots. Next on my list is Terrance in the Sky (that’s the place where Ashley and Christian (I think that’s his name) had the double date.
PJD
its not GG!
BGG, I could be wrong but BET seems to be geared for young folks. That being said, it’s always on at my house, however, I just ignore it because every time I glance at the television, I’m horrified at what I see. No thanks to HH for me but I am happy to know that BET is finding it’s way and at least trying to step it up a bit!!
@K-Bear – Yes, BET seems to be for young ppl I agree, but this show seems to be for ppl in their 20s. I never watch BET, but I was really surprised that this wasn’t trashy like the rest of the network’s programming.
@KittyVodka – HILARIOUS. Nothing compares to GG for you!
@PJD – I forgot to say that yes they do highlight some nice looking spots. I hardly ever make the trek to Harlem, but they have given me some places to check out if I do venture uptown.
I have not seen it. Now I must check it out.
I don’t have cable.
I think its scripted just like the Hills. I don’t like the drama, I’d rather watch a documentary about black women & men who are professionals in their field, and I can’t get over Lamar’s comment about about Morehouse not being a regular college (he was having a Jessica Simpson “Chicken of the Sea” moment there).
this makes no sense but i avoid bet unless keyshia cole is on. i might give this a look-see though.
that looks like a bunch of extremely hip people. i LOVE the brown fur thing, whatever that is. pretty!
thanks for bringin’ me into the loop!
I actually like the HH. I think BET has definitely stepped up is programming quality. Although, I do think the girls are somewhat superficial and bougie – I would have preferred more down to earth girls. As a previous harlem girl and hbcu graduate – I can appreciate BET for displaying the working black professionals that the city is made of. I’ll be watching…enjoying the fashion…but cringing at the girls…
I def feel its scripted. Did anyone notice that June Ambrose is the costume designer on the show? If its reality why do you need a costume designer? I need to look at the credits for the Hills and the City now?
I like all the guys even though Pierre IS a little boring like Brooke said. They are positive, helping the community and bring a breath of fresh air to the channel. I wish I could say the same about the girls. The girls are extremely catty but I think its the show that portrays them as such. I’m hoping they don’t act like that but just do it for the show’s dose of drama.
@Mrs. So Chic – Oh I totally agree that it’s scripted! I did notice that June Ambrose is the costume designer for the show! LOL
It’s scripted just like The Hills, The City, etc. but for some reason, I don’t seem to mind.
I do like the characters and the narration of the show. BET’s productions skills are sub-par, per usual though. Boo!
I love NYC too… I’m the biggest Chicagoan EVER, but a little part of me always wants to be a part-time New Yorker. It’s fun to live vicariously through these BGs.
P.S. I noticed that June Ambrose was the costume designer too. I was thinking costume? LOL!
I have been actively boycotting BET since 2004. But yeah…I have heard really good things about this show.
I was away and have not watch T.V.
Looking forward to checking it out.
I first viewed it because here we have my peers doing something. It’s a bit slow, and appears a bit scripted, but I guess it’s good for 30 minutes of escapism.
The only problem I have is the cattiness, but that is also what makes it entertaining.
I stay away from BET! It hasn’t been the same since they got rid of AJ, Free, and Big Tigger! Plus I’m mortified to watch the videos. You never know what you’ll see.
i try to avoid bet. thanks for the info about the show
i haven’t seen it. I must!
Maybe I need to give it another chance… I’ve only seen one episode and I didn’t like it.
Wow this looks like a great show. I must check it out.
I like the characters and the setting/vibe of the show.
However, two things hold me back:
#1 I really dislike ‘scripting’ on reality TV shows.
#2 For some reason this show is just boring. All of the ingredients are there for it to be a hit, yet I’ve been struggling to get through the episodes. I think that I need for more to happen than ppl sitting and talking all episode long.
When I turn on the TV I don’t think “What’s on BET?” I pretty much try to forget that channel even exists.
I don’t watch it. It probably would be a good show, but I hate the way BET documents things. They should stick to showing videos.
I didn’t even know BET had original programing. I’ll definitely check it out!
This show made me end my boycott with BET. I love it…
@S. Cooper – Me too!
Love Harlem Heights (BET) and Candy Girls (E). Thank goodness that someone else is watching it too. Both make me want to be more than what I am.
@J – Yes, I thought I was going to be the only one who liked that show. That’s why I wanted to find out what other people thought. Glad to know that I’m not the only one! 🙂