Jon and Kate: What Ever Happened To Hard Work?

I went to college (MIZZOU) some 20 years ago with Brad Pitt. Now, even though we were both in the Journalism School, I didn't know him (please girls, don't call me I can't help you meet him). Pitt left MIZZOU, with very little money, his senior year and moved to California because he wanted to be a star. In the late 80s, becoming a big-time Hollywood star meant you moved to Los Angeles with very little money, waited tables at night, went to countless auditions every day and went to acting class. It was hard work, and it took a lot of dedication and perseverance. But, for those who persevered, like Pitt, the rewards were endless. It was called working hard to become a star.

This brings me to Jon and Kate, the current reality stars we hear so much about. Today, people don't move to L.A. and work hard and learn a craft to be famous. No, that's too hard. Today, would-be stars act outrageous, try to get on American Idol, Survivor or another reality show, or find a good fertility doctor.

Why work hard when a fertility doctor can get you on screen much more quickly? I guess it's part of the instant gratification we see in society today.

Jon and Kate received massive amounts of money, opportunities for book deals, a tummy tuck for her, hair implants for him, homes, etc. They are bona fide stars.

But did they really earn those things?

--Ron Ameln, SBM