TVSquad

Justin Timberlake is not only bringing sexy back, but he's trying to bring some excitement back to the reality television genre. Now, I'm not a big fan of the singer. However, his new foray into the genre sounds like it's going to be interesting enough for me to at least check out an episode or two.

The Phone makes its debut April 21 at 10 PM ET/PT on MTV. Timberlake is the executive producer for this action-laden reality show. While it's initially reminding me of the old "I know who you are and I saw what you did" and "the call's coming from inside the house," it's not that at all. It's more like folks signed up for a game show not knowing any details at all. Then the phone rings ...

The contestants vie for $50,000 prize, but it's a bit tougher than eating bugs or living in a house with strangers. Timberlake's series has them racing into burning buildings, saving lives, and even more. Supposedly, I say. According to the MTV website, they have the contestants doing way too much to be any sort of real reality. Dealing with the mob? Recovering secret military technology before it gets into the hands of terrorists?

Give me a break! I know it has to be all scripted except for the reactions of the contestants. Otherwise it would just be a lawsuit waiting to happen. But I'll take a peek at the show anyway. The reality genre needs some kind of action.