The new season of “Army Wives” starts up this Sunday. The drama that follows a group of military families at a fictional South Carolina post is more than just a fun TV escape. Here’s why:
1. This show has lifted the war from headlines and into popular culture. “Army Wives” is the highest-rated show Lifetime has ever produced. It’s definitely more soap opera than documentary. But maybe the folks who’ve tuned out the war through conventional news are still catching a glimpse of some of the realities of military life. Maybe it’s helping them care a little more than they would if they weren’t following the show.
2. The show gives back. Catherine Bell did a public service announcement for us. Lifetime hosted a group of real wives who had a day of beauty with several cast members. Sterling K. Brown and his hilarious wife Ryan Michelle Bathe attended an Operation Homefront reception. Once we all rolled our tongues back in and could speak (he’s even more magically delicious in real life), we really enjoyed visiting with them. Lifetime also ran a Remarkable Women series that showcased standout women. OK, I’m kinda biased because among the many other stellar ladies they featured, they included Operation Homefront’s chief operating officer, Amy Palmer.
3. This show is br
inging women together. Real military wives are getting together for “Army Wives” viewing parties. Our Georgia and Missouri chapters will be hosting viewing parties for the premier. And on OH Online, we’ll have a live, pre-show chat on Sunday at 9 p.m. EST.
4. The show is based on book by a real Army wife/brat. Tanya Biank, a frequent contributor to OH Online, wrote “Army Wives” to chronicle the struggles of real military families. Tanya is a talented writer, a consummate professional, a wonderful mom and a joy to work with. I’m proud of her success.
So here’s hoping the show continues to do well. Good things have come from it, and I hope the trend continues.
