My Husband Won’t Stop Pranking Me — Help!
Dear Remy,
I’m on the verge of setting up a tent in our backyard due to my husband’s recent career struggles. After his acting career on a Canadian show took a hit post-COVID, he’s been trying out a new path as a YouTuber specializing in pranks. Unfortunately, I’ve become an unwilling participant in these pranks.
Over the last fortnight, I’ve experienced some peculiar incidents: I got splashed with water from a balloon when exiting the shower, discovered plastic spiders in my coffee mug, and was startled to find a figure that resembled the twin girls from “The Shining” standing at our doorstep. My neighbors seem to have avoided us lately – ever since my spouse set up our garage to look like it had a sunken hole, and Mrs. Hewitt’s cat fled in fright when it approached the hedge.
The chiropractor, who previously held us in high regard, has stopped returning our calls following an incident where my husband feigned discomfort during an adjustment. I’m torn between encouraging his artistic impulses and drawing a boundary before he decides to broadcast my response as he transforms our hot tub into a ball pit on live stream. I’m at a loss!
Yours,
Thanks, but no Pranks
Dear Thanks, but no Pranks,
It appears your home is on the brink of transforming into a live reality show, due to its accident-prone nature! However, it seems the mischief isn’t just the source of trouble; it feels like it’s only half the issue. Beyond the fake spiders and water balloons, there’s a deeper concern that he’s channeling all this creativity into pranks rather than directing it towards something productive for his career growth.
You’ve nailed the point exactly: wouldn’t you feel less agitated if he were investing this amount of effort into something else, perhaps writing a screenplay or creating a one-man show? I doubt it. It’s not about prank videos; it’s about the concern that his talents are being underutilized (and maybe even some of LA’s water resources).
It’s high time we talk to him, not focusing on the pranks per se, but rather what they symbolize. If he’s using these as an expression of his energy, perhaps you can motivate him to redirect that ingenuity elsewhere. To put it simply: The world already has one Logan Paul, so let’s aim for more diverse and positive outlets.
Best,
Remy
To Self-Cancel or Not to Self-Cancel — That Is The Question
Dear Remy,
For two decades, I’ve been under public scrutiny, making a simple purchase like toothpaste feel like I’m being investigated for a major crime. I’ve reached my limit, and I believe I’ve found an ideal resolution: I intend to make myself a target for criticism or dismissal.
It seems like what you’re suggesting is creating a controversial statement to stir up controversy intentionally, such as criticizing Beyoncé, commenting on Dolly Parton’s appearance, protesting Thanksgiving, or devaluing puppies in a public forum. Once the backlash ensues and your reputation is tarnished (or “canceled”), you believe this would free you from the relentless fame and attention that has been overwhelming you for twenty years.
Over the years, I’ve enjoyed quite a successful stint in acting: many of the productions I’ve been part of have received ratings above 60% on Rotten Tomatoes, and I’ve mingled in VIP areas along the West Coast. To add to that, I’ve had romantic encounters with several Playboy Bunnies. However, my fame follows me everywhere, and I can’t escape the flashing cameras. I even once stumbled upon a paparazzo disguised as Santa Claus rummaging through my garbage, claiming he was there for the neighborhood kids.
Is canceling myself the worst idea I’ve ever had, or am I onto something?
Yours,
A Cancel Attitude
Dear Cancel Attitude,
For a moment, let’s take a breath. Are you seeking liberty, or perhaps liberation from a persona that no longer aligns with who you truly are? Being canceled won’t bring you tranquility – it will only attract more attention. You might believe the paparazzi are tenacious, but brace yourself for the internet’s unforgiving gaze.
If you’re seeking a less glamorous life, there are subtler methods to achieve it. Many celebrities have successfully vanished from the spotlight by accepting lesser roles or leading more secluded lives. For instance, consider Rick Moranis and Frankie Muniz. It’s unnecessary to ruin your reputation completely to find peace. And, at this point, I wouldn’t suggest speaking negatively about Beyoncé if the rumors are indeed accurate.
If you tiptoe out through the back exit silently, you may discover the tranquility you seek – all without the unnecessary fuss.
Wishing you well on your vanishing voyage,
Remy
Too Soon? Or Should I Just Shut Up and Shoot?
Dear Remy,
I find myself grappling with a dilemma that’s causing me unease. As a director, I’ve been presented with an opportunity that leaves me feeling itchy. It involves creating a biographical film about a widely admired public figure, but there’s a catch – he passed away as recently as 2020. His widow frequently shares heart-wrenching Instagram posts reminiscing about their last holiday season together, and his son had to withdraw from college due to the relentless media attention.
It seems like there’s a strong market potential in this situation, but it gives the impression that the deceased man’s family hasn’t begun sorting through his personal belongings yet. Is my concern about timing misplaced, or is it premature to transform his life into a film so soon? Ultimately, isn’t it questionable whether we should rush biopics or produce them for individuals who are still living?
Yours,
Biopic or Pass?
Dear Biopic or Pass,
It’s not that you’re overreacting; rather, it seems that the whole project surrounding this man is moving too quickly. It appears as though they’re attempting to profit from his passing while the emotions are still raw. Furthermore, if his family is still grappling with their loss in such a public manner, it feels like adding insult to injury to portray him on screen before there has been ample time for healing.
Is the intention behind this event to honor his life or simply a swift monetary exploitation? Ponder if you’re comfortable being associated with something that seems opportunistic. If it feels wrong, trust your gut feelings. Perhaps express your interest for future collaboration when the story has had enough time to develop. At present, it appears everyone, including his family, could benefit from more time and reflection.
Best,
Remy
Remy Blumenfeld, an experienced television producer and founder of Vitality Guru, provides business and professional guidance for top-tier media professionals. If you have any questions or inquiries, please direct them to: guru@vitality.guru.
Questions edited by Sarah Mills.
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2024-10-26 20:25