I Want To Be A Hilton: The Finale
Just A Little Brighter
Recap By Adria Valdes
August 10, 2005
On Tuesday, August 9, 2005 NBC aired the final episode of the hit reality TV series, "I Want to Be a Hilton". What had started with fourteen socialite-hopefuls was now down to three wannabes. Vanessa, the stuck up bartender, Jaret the charming country boy and Jakaay the spunky landscape supply clerk were the final three.
These three had experienced and grown a great deal throughout the past seven weeks of the show. They learned table manners, ate escargot, went on a cultural scavenger hunt throughout New York City, participated in a runway fashion show, threw a lavish party for the NYC elite, took part in a press conference and received fabulous makeovers among many other exciting experiences. But, as all good things must come to an end, this week Kathy Hilton had the challenge to choose only one person to become "a Hilton". Let's see what type of mission would be in store this week.
The sun rose in New York City and our three hopefuls were nervous and ready for whatever was to be their final challenge. Kathy greeted them at the penthouse and explained that this week would be a little different from the traditional missions they had be on thus far. Each person would choose the spot in New York City that best represented them. They would meet Ms. Hilton here and talk about their lives, experiences on the show and explain to Kathy why they deserved to win the competition.
Jaret was first and chose to take Kathy to a running track. He explained that he chose this location because running was a big part of his life throughout his high school career. Because he grew up in a trailer park and had somewhat of a stressful childhood, running was a way to keep his mind off things and enjoy himself.
Jakaay met with Kathy Hilton second and spent time with her at a modern art museum. Here they spoke about Jakaay's childhood, her divorced parents and the weight of being responsible for her younger sister. I did not really catch why she chose this particular destination, but the fact that it was a modern art museum might have contributed to her spunky and non traditional personality.
Finally, Vanessa decided to meet with Ms. Kathy Hilton at The Park restaurant for lunch. Vanessa and Ms. Hilton spoke about a typical day for Vanessa before the show, her hopes and dreams of becoming a fashion designer, as well as tackling her "bossy" stereotype. Like with Jakaay, it was somewhat unclear to me why Vanessa chose this swanky restaurant to represent herself. Perhaps she was subconsciously using it to represent her arrogant attitude and attempt to make herself look more sophisticated than the other two players.
That night, Ms Hilton met with all three of the final contestants for dinner. The gathering seemed a little awkward as our three finalists were extremely nervous. They each made sure they were holding their wine glasses correctly and using the right utensils, fearing that they would forget one of the skills they have been practicing for so long. Suddenly, Ms. Hilton broke the silence and asked for a minute alone with Vanessa. This made the situation a little bit more nerve wracking for everyone. Needing a moment alone with Vanessa could be a good thing (she may be promising her a spot in the final two) or it could be a bad thing (she could be getting the boot). It was the moment of the truth for Vanessa. Ms. Hilton explained how far Vanessa had come throughout the last several weeks but…she just hadn't seem to come as far as Jakaay or Jaret (sorry Vanessa Ms. Hilton was able to see right through your facade as easily as the rest of us). It was time for Vanessa to pack her bags.
Outside the restaurant, Kathy met again with Jaret and Jakaay and announced that they were the final two. Both were ecstatic and it was difficult to say at this point who would leave the challenge as the winner. Ms. Hilton and the final two took a boat ride back to Manhattan and enjoyed the view as they celebrated being a step closer to the prize.
The next day, Ms. Hilton explained the final challenge. Jaret and Jakaay would have to compose original speeches to recite in front of a group of NYC elites, as well as former cast mates telling why they deserved to win the competition. They would have the whole day to prepare, as well as the help of a professional speech writer and speech therapist. The two put their best efforts forward and prepared the speeches of a lifetime. They also were whisked away to get full makeovers (one more time). Ms. Hilton also had a final surprise before they met at The Residence to deliver their speeches. Jaret's mother and Jakaay's best friend had come for moral support.
Finally the night had arrived; it was time to deliver their speeches. Ms. Hilton first introduced Jakaay or Jaclyn (her real name). With her best friend there for support, Jakaay delivered a great speech. She kept her composure; spoke slowly and intelligently, like a true socialite. Next up was Jaret. This would be a tough speech to follow. With Mom watching close by, Jaret too delivered a magnificent speech. He was confident and spoke from the heart. At this time, Ms. Hilton thanked the two for speaking and excused herself to make her final decision. She also reiterated that the winner would be based on the speech as well as overall progression throughout the weeks. At this point, all Jaret and Jakaay could do was sit and wait.
Finally, Ms. Hilton returned. Although the final two had both done an amazing job throughout the competition, there was one person that shone just a little brighter than the other. The winner of the fully furnished NYC apartment, collection of prizes, trip to Europe for them and their family and of course a $200,000 trust fund was…Jaret.
Adria is a 20 year old journalism student from Miami, FL. Some of her favorite reality shows include The Real World, The Bachelor/ Bachelorette and Extreme Makeover Home Edition. Besides being an fan of reality TV, she also enjoys music, movies, decorating,shopping and spending lots of time at the beach. You can email Adria at av0128@yahoo.com.
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