You might have seen the Hollywood film trucks tooling around town in recent weeks and you might have heard that Purveyors of Pop is filming a Houston version of Atlanta's Married to Medicine for Bravo. But you probably don't know who the half-dozen women are, as they are mostly keeping their lips sealed due to a $1 million confidentiality agreement. They talk, they have to pay up.
Unlike the Atlanta version that features six African-American women, the Houston take on the show will reflect the city's diversity. The local cast is an international mix, mostly young, early in their careers and facing the challenges of balancing demanding medical careers with personal life.
Word is that this reality show will differ in tone as well. As opposed to the backstabbing, over-the-top characters in Atlanta, these young docs and gals married to docs are said to be focusing more on the struggles of life in the scrubs lane rather than struggling with each other. That remains to be seen.
The film trucks have been spotted in downtown Houston, at the rodeo, at Persian New Year festivities and at a charity event in the home of Cindi and Dr. Franklin Rose. Filming will continue for several more weeks with an air date planned for some time in the fourth quarter of this year.
While the film company spent almost two years finding just the right cast — the right mix of chemistry and personality — CultureMap could cast that show in 30 minutes. And so we do but without the usual requisites that the film companies face and without the strict age limitations. Our mistresses of medicine are sweethearts, glamorous and would surely garner Nielsen love.
Our first nomination for "Married to Medicine" Houston style is anesthesiologist Dr. Romy Mitchell, a tall drink of water, blond and beautiful. This doc knows how to dress to impress. And she's a show-stopper that would keep any audience coming back for more.
Dr. Yasmine Haddad, assistant professor at the University of Texas School of Dentistry Houston, would bring a fashion flair to the show. A regular on the charity benefit circuit, her party clothes are bold and colorful, her personality bright and cheery. Think high energy.
Hong Kong-born Connie Kwan-Wong is a pediatric cardiac sonographer in addition to being an entrepreneur, charity columnist and philanthropist. She has her own charitable foundation, has launched a skincare products and accessories line (CKW Collection) with proceeds going to charity and she has founded CKW Luxe magazine and website that launches in late May. This is a woman with lots to work with.
Optometrist Dr. Sheena Garner shows up on the social radar in all the right places. She was so stunning at the Houston Grand Opera Ball, we figure that she can hold her own in the medical mix.
The exotic beauty Parissa Mohajer, with that enviable Iranian mane (no extensions necessary!), is a popular chiropractor interested in finding the right man. Another story line that is easily developed.
And, of course, the Dr. Franklin Rose family is ripe for another foray into reality TV. But this time, it would be momma Cindi Rose in the spotlight rather than daughter Erica Rose.
Give us your nominations for H-Town's "Married to Medicine" cast. And any rumors on who the next reality stars are.
Anesthesiologist Romy Mitchell, with Patrick Levantino.
