Jon and Kate Plus 8. Official Thread!!

[missypie]

I have no problem with them asking for the $25,000 + first class arrangements. They ask and the market can pay it or not. If no one pays it, they'll lower the price.

 

[MM27]

I would assume the HOA in their neighborhood won't allow a fence in the front yard and possibly not in the back yard either - or if it does then it would dictate what kind.

If they are making the big bucks from the TV show and their speaking engagements then I don't see why they haven't moved somewhere with more land where they could have some privacy.

I wouldn't doubt that their are cars driving by their house all the time and I would also be concerned about my children's safety BUT if that is an issue then MOVE somewhere else - even a gated community would be a better choice.

I can't believe that a HOA would allow those signs.

I think their intentions are good, they just don't THINK before they do things, kind of like the message that they had on their website. A simple PRIVATE PROPERTY/NO TRESPASSING would have made more sense than all those "rules" they had put on those signs. It would bother me too if people were stopping and taking pictures or knocking on the door. I can't believe people feel the need to do things like that, but whatever floats your boat I guess.

As far as the speaking engagements, hey if people are willing to pay to go see them or buy their pictures, good for Jon and Kate. I enjoy watching the show, but they are not "experts" on anything that is of interest to me so I wouldn't pay to see them. I wouldn't criticize them for making money when they can. Soon it's going to be over so of course they should take advantage of it now and get the most they can.

Hopefully, for the kid's sake, when they move to their new house, they don't get too specific about locations and don't show full shots of the front of the house.

 

[mefordis]

I am guessing they may have been advised against upgrading their lifestyle to a much bigger house and more seclusion. Part of their appeal is that they are supposed to be "struggling". If they are now seen to be on "easy street", a lot of that appeal will be gone and no one will be able to relate to them or the show -- and people will stop watching.

One of my favorite shows was when she went shopping with coupons and a calculator.

To see her struggle with so many kids makes people feel like they have it easier. If we were to see her with all this help, a huge house, no money struggles it would definitely make for a boring show.

I would assume the HOA in their neighborhood won't allow a fence in the front yard and possibly not in the back yard either - or if it does then it would dictate what kind.

If they are making the big bucks from the TV show and their speaking engagements then I don't see why they haven't moved somewhere with more land where they could have some privacy.

I wouldn't doubt that their are cars driving by their house all the time and I would also be concerned about my children's safety BUT if that is an issue then MOVE somewhere else - even a gated community would be a better choice.

 

[disneychrista]

Why is it that we have no problem paying big bucks to go a concert or other "entertainment" venue. But the idea that J&K want to be paid is seen in not so great light. Yes they started out as "regular people" but we the public made them into "celebreties."

 

[madge]

I agree! There's a lot of stuff about Jon and Kate that annoys me, but that's not one of them. If people are willing to pay the big bucks, they should take what they could get. Lots of random people get paid ridiculous amounts of money just to make appearances. It makes no sense but that's the way it is so I don't blame them for getting as much as they can.

It's stuff like when Kate said she has no help (on last weeks episode) that makes me

I have a lot less issue with Jon & Kate having professional representation and being paid $$$ than I did when they were booking their own speaking engagements, and telling their tale of woe ... and then passing the hat for a love offering. At least, with a PR firm, it's up front and honest.

 

[TotalSnowWhite]

I agree! There's a lot of stuff about Jon and Kate that annoys me, but that's not one of them. If people are willing to pay the big bucks, they should take what they could get. Lots of random people get paid ridiculous amounts of money just to make appearances. It makes no sense but that's the way it is so I don't blame them for getting as much as they can.

It's stuff like when Kate said she has no help (on last weeks episode) that makes me

I was initally immensely irritated (alliteration! ) by her, but as I watched more episodes, she kinda grew on me, of course I have a sarcastic sense of humor sometimes. I'm fairly new to the show, but TLC reruns it so often it didn't take too long to catch up. Anyway, I thought about how I would act in her situation. If I had eight children, I can guarantee I wouldn't be sunshine and roses all the time. Now, I definitely think she has her moments, but everyone else does, too. Hers are just broadcast and replayed. I also had to remind myself that the show is just a tiny glimpse into a life. I think it's a fun show, and I enjoy it.

I did have a good laugh at the (of course) WDW episode during the ice cream "catastrophe." I've seen that happen with families who have one child, so that's definitely a Disney thing, not Kate-specific.

 

[FergieTCat]

I have two questions:

(1) Why are Jon & Kate's speaking engagements different than anyone else who is able to earn an income from speaking on a subject? Or performing on stage? If people are willing to pay money to hear them speak, why should they not be able to profit from it?

(2) Why is their "using" their children or their family to earn an income any different than any other parents of child actors using their kids out to make money? Ex. Miley Cyrus, Lindsay Lohan (in her "Parent Trap" days), etc. Why is it wrong for the Gosselins to do it?

As for the product placement, it's not a new concept. It's cheaper than a national advertising campaign. Same goes for all the places they visit. They give the venues national exposure. I'm not talking about WDW, but all of the places they film in Lancaster County.

I watch the show for the kids. I have nothing for or against Kate Gosselin. Sure, she can be neurotic, but I haven't seen her treat Jon any worse than I've seen other women treat their husbands. I also don't care how much money she makes, how she treats her neighbors, etc. If the show irritated me that much, I'd turn the channel.

I think anyone (Gosselins Without Pity, Jodi's "sister", etc.) who has a website specifically devoted to bashing Kate really needs to think about why they are even bothering to generate such negativity. I can't imagine being that obsessed with anyone.

 

[ClarabelleCowFan]

I have two questions:

(1) Why are Jon & Kate's speaking engagements different than anyone else who is able to earn an income from speaking on a subject? Or performing on stage? If people are willing to pay money to hear them speak, why should they not be able to profit from it?

(2) Why is their "using" their children or their family to earn an income any different than any other parents of child actors using their kids out to make money? Ex. Miley Cyrus, Lindsay Lohan (in her "Parent Trap" days), etc. Why is it wrong for the Gosselins to do it?

As for the product placement, it's not a new concept. It's cheaper than a national advertising campaign. Same goes for all the places they visit. They give the venues national exposure. I'm not talking about WDW, but all of the places they film in Lancaster County.

I watch the show for the kids. I have nothing for or against Kate Gosselin. Sure, she can be neurotic, but I haven't seen her treat Jon any worse than I've seen other women treat their husbands. I also don't care how much money she makes, how she treats her neighbors, etc. If the show irritated me that much, I'd turn the channel.

I think anyone (Gosselins Without Pity, Jodi's "sister", etc.) who has a website specifically devoted to bashing Kate really needs to think about why they are even bothering to generate such negativity. I can't imagine being that obsessed with anyone.

I don't have a problem with them being paid to speak or requiring first class tickets either. They are somewhat of a celebrity and they would most likely be bothered by other passengers in coach moreso than in first class.

As for how they are different than other families with child actors - the Gosselin children are not acting or performing like Miley Cyrus or Lindsey Lohan. Those actors/performers can go to the set/venue and play their part then retreat to their private home. The Gosselin kids are filmed in their own homes so there is no privacy or retreat for them. The kids also aren't given a choice in the matter - the parents allow their private moments to be filmed - going potty, bathing, changing clothes, etc... I doubt that Jon and Kate asked the twins or the septuplets if they WANTED to be on the show.

I sincerely hope that J&K are putting a fair portion of their proceeds from the marketing of their family situation into some sort of funds for those children's future whether it be college funds or trust funds. Jon & Kate aren't the stars of the show - they are 2 of the 10 stars of the show.

 

[AnninIowa]

Hey, don't get me wrong - as I've said before, TLC is making a ton of money off the Gosselins, so I am all for them cashing in, too. It is too bad, though, if it's true that they are now cancelling previously scheduled speaking engagements and saying it's so they can spend more time with the children if it's actually because of money.

 

[madge]

I have two questions:

(1) Why are Jon & Kate's speaking engagements different than anyone else who is able to earn an income from speaking on a subject? Or performing on stage? If people are willing to pay money to hear them speak, why should they not be able to profit from it?

They should be able to profit from it. I agree. If there's an audience out there that's willing to pay? More power to them. And as I said earlier, Id much rather see them with professional representation. (without the love offering)

I think they've gotten so far from their beginnings, as far as the speaking engagements go.... and I'm not sure how they got there. From what I understand, Jon & Kate spoke to mom groups and churches, talking about the struggles of raising a family, how God has blessed them, etc. This is their bread and butter audience.

(2) Why is their "using" their children or their family to earn an income any different than any other parents of child actors using their kids out to make money? Ex. Miley Cyrus, Lindsay Lohan (in her "Parent Trap" days), etc. Why is it wrong for the Gosselins to do it?

That is a very valid point. But, child actors/performers get to go home at the end of the day. the Gosselin children are at home - their home is a production set. How long are the cameras & crew in the house?

I think anyone (Gosselins Without Pity, Jodi's "sister", etc.) who has a website specifically devoted to bashing Kate really needs to think about why they are even bothering to generate such negativity. I can't imagine being that obsessed with anyone.

I can agree with that sentiment to a point ... the GWoP blog came as a direct result of the Jon & Kate threads being shut down by Television Without Pity. They wanted to continue the dialog, thats what the blog says, anyway. LOL. I guess Aunt Jodi's sister has her reasons for blogging, as well.

Blogs aside, there is a TON of Jon & Kate talk on message boards all over the internet - they really are a hot topic this summer! I wonder, at some point, if Jon & Kate will sit down with a TV show and start addressing some of the many rumors that are circulating about them and the show.

 

[Wonders10]

Well, jodi's "sister" has added an entry to her blog regarding J&K's "letter to their fans" on their website (that has since been removed). She makes some interesting comments - especially the fact that J&K practically say that the "untruths" being said by them are coming from family. Also, there is a link at the bottom of the entry linking to another news article about J&K's "need" for continued medicaid once the tups turned 1.

I personally feel like there must be some truth to all of this nonsense. Even if a lot of it is coming out in the wrong way. Either way, I'm completely entertained by it. Sad I know.

 

[kritter]

Well, jodi's "sister" has added an entry to her blog regarding J&K's "letter to their fans" on their website (that has since been removed). She makes some interesting comments - especially the fact that J&K practically say that the "untruths" being said by them are coming from family. Also, there is a link at the bottom of the entry linking to another news article about J&K's "need" for continued medicaid once the tups turned 1

I personally feel like there must be some truth to all of this nonsense. Even if a lot of it is coming out in the wrong way. Either way, I'm completely entertained by it. Sad I know.

Do you have the link to the newest blog she has posted??????!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[Doe]

Do you have the link to the newest blog she has posted??????!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

http://truthbreedshatred.blogspot.com/

I think this is what you're looking for. Pretty interesting read.

 

[kritter]

http://truthbreedshatred.blogspot.com/

I think this is what you're looking for. Pretty interesting read.

Thanks,, have you seen this too??????::

http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/s_334106.html

 

[barkley]

They should be able to profit from it. I agree. If there's an audience out there that's willing to pay? More power to them. And as I said earlier, Id much rather see them with professional representation. (without the love offering)

I think they've gotten so far from their beginnings, as far as the speaking engagements go.... and I'm not sure how they got there. From what I understand, Jon & Kate spoke to mom groups and churches, talking about the struggles of raising a family, how God has blessed them, etc. This is their bread and butter audience.




That is a very valid point. But, child actors/performers get to go home at the end of the day. the Gosselin children are at home - their home is a production set. How long are the cameras & crew in the house?



I can agree with that sentiment to a point ... the GWoP blog came as a direct result of the Jon & Kate threads being shut down by Television Without Pity. They wanted to continue the dialog, thats what the blog says, anyway. LOL. I guess Aunt Jodi's sister has her reasons for blogging, as well.

Blogs aside, there is a TON of Jon & Kate talk on message boards all over the internet - they really are a hot topic this summer! I wonder, at some point, if Jon & Kate will sit down with a TV show and start addressing some of the many rumors that are circulating about them and the show.

apparantly they are a hot enough topic that paul petersen and his group 'a minor consideration' have taken notice as well. there's no info. on his group's website as yet but the gwop site says they have heard from him and are waiting for formal permission to post his comments.

personaly i hope his group makes some in-roads in putting forth the same laws that require specific accounting for and saving of a percentage of the income generated from child performers into place for kids who are on these reality shows. additionaly, i feel that if a parent or other person is going to make a buisness of selling photos of their children (as people who have attended these speaking engagements have reported j&k do at $20 per photo) then a set percentage of that should be required to be set aside as well.

 

[MM27]

Paul Peterson and his group are "aware" because people from a blog decided to email him to say how awful Jon and Kate are and urged him to get involved. He responded to one of their letters by saying that he needed specifics as to why they were concerned. He responded that he was okay with the show~for now.

If it's solely a money issue, then I hope Jon and Kate are setting aside money for the kids and investing wisely for their future. Apparently only CA, NY and NJ have laws about child "stars". But some people on the blogs/message boards that I've read make it sound like Jon and Kate are abusing their kids. I think that's very unfair.

 

[madge]

If it's solely a money issue, then I hope Jon and Kate are setting aside money for the kids and investing wisely for their future. Apparently only CA, NY and NJ have laws about child "stars". But some people on the blogs/message boards that I've read make it sound like Jon and Kate are abusing their kids. I think that's very unfair.

I'm inclined to agree. None of us knows Jon & Kate personally, and we don't know what goes on behind closed doors. If the kids are asking to not be filmed, for whatever reason, and Jon & Kate are forcing them to go along with it ... then I think that borders on abusive. It's a fine line ... these kids know no other life. They have production lights installed all over their house - cameras are everywhere, all the time. (How long do they have to film to make one episode?) And if some of the information posted on the blogs is true ... most of the family/friends have been cut out of the filming aspect of the show. These kids are surrounded by paid staff of Figure8 Films & TLC. And Jon & Kate. Who is there to step in and say "enough" on behalf of these kids, if and when that becomes a necessity?

 

[Camster0307]

I'm inclined to agree. None of us knows Jon & Kate personally, and we don't know what goes on behind closed doors. If the kids are asking to not be filmed, for whatever reason, and Jon & Kate are forcing them to go along with it ... then I think that borders on abusive. It's a fine line ... these kids know no other life. They have production lights installed all over their house - cameras are everywhere, all the time. (How long do they have to film to make one episode?) And if some of the information posted on the blogs is true ... most of the family/friends have been cut out of the filming aspect of the show. These kids are surrounded by paid staff of Figure8 Films & TLC. And Jon & Kate. Who is there to step in and say "enough" on behalf of these kids, if and when that becomes a necessity?

That is if any thing you have posted or read is actually true. No one knows but Jon & Kate how their kids truly feel about doing this show; and it's not fair for any of us to assume anything about it being right or wrong.

And, btw, it's been stated that they only film a couple of days a week. So to say the cameras are everywhere, all the time is an exaggeration.

 

[Mouse House Mama]

That is if any thing you have posted or read is actually true. No one knows but Jon & Kate how their kids truly feel about doing this show; and it's not fair for any of us to assume anything about it being right or wrong.

And, btw, it's been stated that they only film a couple of days a week. So to say the cameras are everywhere, all the time is an exaggeration.

They are little kids! Do you really think they can say how they really feel about it? Do you really think that all 8 kids love being filmed? I am sorry but I tend to doubt that. Regardless of the blogs etc. I think J&K are doing this for themselves with little regard for the children.

 

[madge]

That is if any thing you have posted or read is actually true. No one knows but Jon & Kate how their kids truly feel about doing this show; and it's not fair for any of us to assume anything about it being right or wrong.

that is exactly my point. although, I'd say it is possible that the children have developed a relationship with the crew and would say things to them. No one knows what the kids want except those around them. For all we know, the kids love every second of this.

I do believe that the truth is somewhere in the midst of the comments made on the countless blogs & message board threads about the Gosselins... not as sunshine & roses as the sheeples like to believe and not nearly as bad as Aunt Jodi's sister's blog claims. I think a lot of what is posted is hooey. LOL. I like to ask questions and raise what I feel are valid concerns about the show. There are things I do like about them, and have posted those things too

And, btw, it's been stated that they only film a couple of days a week. So to say the cameras are everywhere, all the time is an exaggeration.

A couple of days a week? Maybe. I've also read that the cameras are there all day long on those days - often before the children are awake and after they go to bed. So while it may not be everywhere/all the time? It's still a LOT and it's still in their home.