In our youth, we had favorite celebrities who made us laugh, swoon or sing along to the radio with a hairbrush microphone.
I liked the Hollywood-polished, totally unrealistic perceptions of these folks I built up devouring month after month of Tiger Beat, Teen Beat and Bop magazines.
Deep down, I knew it was fluff. But I never thought I'd have to face the truth. Until now.
Cable TV this summer is airing a constant stream of "celebreality" shows featuring my preteen icons in a less than flattering light.
Of course, this format this is old hat if you count the reality shows of Jessica Simpson, Carmen Electra, Ozzy Osbourne, Paris Hilton/Nicole Richie and Anna Nicole Smith ... but they weren't in my preteen universe.
Scott Baio was.
And if you've missed "Scott Baio is 45 ... and Single," it's on VH1 regularly throughout the week.
Ten minutes of hearing Baio argue with his life coach about his commitment problems, and you'll see what I mean.
Then there's "Hey Paula," featuring my fifth-grade pop idol Paula Abdul.
It premiered earlier this summer on the Bravo Channel. She comes across a bit daffy and, sadly, lonely.
And finally, "The Two Coreys" on A&E.
I can't tell you how many times I watched Corey Feldman and Corey Haim in '80s films such as "The Lost Boys," "Stand By Me," "Lucas" and “License to Drive.”
Now, the Coreys, 36 and 35 respectively, are trying to survive living under the same roof -- along with Feldman's wife, Susie.
This is one comeback I can't bear to watch.
I want my preteen icons back.
I feel your pain, Melissa. My innocent images have been shattered by these shows too, particuarly with Scott Baio and Paula Abdul. Haven't seen the Coreys show yet ... I don't think I'll bother.