Inside Pulse launched on August 9, 2004, and has covered the world of television for over a decade. Every day, we take a look back at what was happening in the world of television 10 years ago, as reported right here at Inside Pulse!
Riding Coattails: Prickus Maximus
I don’t think I’ve ever seen a less likeable contestant on a reality show than The Amazing Race’s Jonathan, who comprises 50% of the “married entrepreneurs” team with his wife, Victoria. (Entrepreneurs of what, exactly? New ways to torture someone you claim to love? Did they apply to be on the show in order to market their ideas?) The whining, the insults, and general kvetching that spew from this man’s mouth appear to get worse with every episode. And although Victoria isn’t a whole lot better, when placed next to her man, she tends to appear saintly by comparison. These two are the poster children for marital dysfunction. I can’t stand them, and yet I’m fascinated by them. I hope they’re the runners up in the race, because they don’t deserve to win, yet without them, the show wouldn’t be nearly as interesting.
I wonder if Jonathan’s ever been in therapy. I’m sure psychologists would have a field day with this guy. He strikes me as what shrinks would call an oblivious narcissist, someone who sees themselves as better than everyone else and an exception to the rules. Oblivious narcissists don’t consider how their words and actions impact those around them and tend to possess a strong sense of entitlement. The world owes them something and they’ll step on anyone who stands in the path of what is rightfully theirs. Jonathan’s behavior in The Amazing Race has certainly demonstrated that entitlement time and time again, as he screams at his wife when she makes mistakes or harasses other players who seem to get in his way, like Gus and Hera, who got lucky and caught a faster flight to Hungary than he did.
