I owe Tammy Lynn Michaels an apology. I was pretty sure she woke up one day, 35 and covered in kid-spit, wondering whatever happened to all the makeup and wardrobe people, the paparazzi who clamored for her sexy bright-eyed picture a decade ago, when she was so popular on Popular and kicked tush in the short film D.E.B.S.
But she’s saying that no, her split with Melissa Etheridge wasn’t “mutual,” as the singer-songwriter has so diplomatically stated while promoting her new album. Tammy is making it clear that it wasn’t her idea to bust up their family.
Personally, I’m disturbed when two people, regardless of sexuality, take on the responsibility of children and then don’t stick it out until the little rug rats are off and running their own rat’s nest.
But gays and lesbians typically go to a lot of extra trouble to bring precious little beings into the world, why would they devastate them by deciding that as parents they are “incompatible?” I wonder which horrible thing Melissa didn’t know about Tammy that now requires her to “move on” before the kids are self-sufficient.
Speaking of real live lesbians, I was recently about town and met one of The Real L Word stars. I admit that because I’m not a fan of reality shows, I’ve been indifferent about the upcoming Showtime premiere on June 20.
But if Tracy Ryerson is the caliber of woman on this new show, I’m setting the TiVo.
“My role is playing me, it’s the easiest role to do, probably,” says the tall, beautiful entertainment executive with a smile that could sell toothpaste. “I just live my life and cameras follow me, which is fun.”
My first impression is that she’s classy, together, down-to-earth and not the type of woman that one might expect would allow cameras into her private abode.
“It’s a little bit invasive, I’m not so great with the loss of privacy,” she says. But already, the rewards are evident.
“You’ll see when it airs that certain family members are now understanding the issues that we have to deal with in being gay and lesbian, so what I’m happy to do is sort of put that in the forefront.
“I’m used to being behind the camera,” she adds, “so this is a little out of my comfort zone. But…I think if I can help be a voice and get some things changed and [encourage] equality out there, I’m happy doing that.”
So how’s the money? “[Laughs] it wasn’t life-changing, let’s just say that.”
Check out this teaser to The Real L Word: