Style network calls “Chicagolicious” a reality series, but much of the interaction between staff members at hair salon A.J.’s of Chicago feels scripted.
Or maybe more accurately, cast members of this “Jerseylicious” spinoff (
8 p.m. Monday, Style; 1 star out of 4
) seems to be angling for reality TV fame. They come off as more camera saavy and thus more actorly and false than “real.” (In owner A.J. Johnson’s case, that statement may be a little unfair; he makes no secret that he wants to take his business to the national level.)
Johnson’s hair and makeup specialists are, however, much more stylish than the “Jerseylicious” crew. The eccentric group catering to a high-profile clientele includes New Agey salon manager Niki, sales manager Q, flirtatious barber Howard, fashion-challenged MaCray and new stylist Austin. Veteran hair stylist Valincia and makeup artist Katrell up the drama with their clashes.
The series delivers all the bickering, gossip and voyeuristic BS fans of reality docu-series expect and love. I am not a fan. I find the “Chicagolicious,” like most of series in the genre, favors style over substance.
