I was scrolling on instagram today and saw the news: the daytime talk show, The Real, has been canceled after 8 seasons. I was lucky enough to start working at The Real during season 1, starting on my 18th birthday. I moved to LA to live with my aunt, who was the Executive in Charge on the show and she got me a gig as a Production Assistant “temporarily”. That temporary gig turned into 3 years with production and my first introduction to the art department. I spent birthdays 18-23 on this show. We made jokes that The Real was my “college” and I even continued on to grad school there.

I was given a lot of responsibility at a young age on this show. It led me to grow up quickly and toughen up to this city. I met people who’ve influenced my life and career forever. Experienced I could never recreate. I learned so much. I can’t emphasize it enough. I think that’s why I feel so stunned by the end.

After hearing the news, I went down memory lane looking through some old pictures of my years there. If I’ve worked with you on that show, I probably have a photo of you on here (sorry). On to the gallery: