SHAQ AND SHAUNIE’S REALITY SHOW IN LIMBO
Nov 16th, 2009 by Bilal Ali
The reality show filmed by Shaquille and Shaunie O’Neal before their marriage took a decisive turn last week may find its way to at least one network still willing to give it a chance.
Earlier this year, the couple had shopped a show called “Love Shaq,” based on several couples-style reality shows like “Meet the Barkers,” “Newlyweds” and “Til Death Do Us Part.”
The couples in those programs didn’t last, but at least they were in tact as the seasons aired. The O’Neal marriage fell apart before the show could even be sold.
Shaunie, born Va’shaundya, filed for legal separation from the Cleveland Cavaliers player in Los Angeles County Superior Court on Nov. 9 citing irreconcilable differences. In addition to asking for an unspecified amount of money for spousal and child support, Shaunie is also seeking sole custody of the couple’s four children, ages 3 to 9, with visitation rights for O’Neal.
This is the second split for Shaunie and Shaq, who originally filed for divorce in 2007. They briefly reconciled after a bitter dispute over whether or not he was hiding money from her.
A&E confirmed they had seen the “Love Shaq” pilot, according to TMZ, and are said to be still “considering” whether or not to purchase the show.
The network already has experience revamping a reality series after unforeseen circumstances forced episodes to take a different tone.
The cable channel was filming a reality series about the Jackson brothers and their preparation for a comeback concert when Michael Jackson died suddenly in June. A&E has since changed the focus of the series to include the siblings’ attempt to deal with their brother’s death. “The Jacksons: A Family Dynasty” premieres on Dec. 13.