Premieres: August 16
Airs: Tuesdays, 9pm ET/PT
Network: WE tv
Featuring Todd Bruce, Laura Bruce
What To Expect: The Bruces are solvent once again, leaving Todd longing to buy a home — using Laura’s good credit. But Todd’s job instability, emergency medical issues and the precariousness of their savings has Laura worried.
107 Comments
I am sorry but I do not understand why this show has been created! Yes our economy has went to the garbbage and everyone is having to sacrafice so much in their lives to make ends meet, but this show is stupid if you ask me! It is fake! Yes, it shows a family of 7 kids sacraficing this and that to make ends meet, but this family is getting paid thousands of dollars to do this show, they are not doing it for free and making it look like they are doing so bad! But, anyone would do this show to get the money just for participating in the show and letting the world into their lives! So I do not feel sorry for them, they are getting a heck of alot of money for doing this show! So , this show makes no sense to me, sacrafice on tv, but get paid behind the scenes to do the show, what a crock! Just my opinion!
This concept is crap. I lost my home, work two jobs and my wife works as well and we are still trying to get by. What make this family so special. Mail me a check and make my life easier. There is allot more families like mine out there then you think. Why would I want to watch this family exploited?
Your show “downsized” I am sorry to give you my opinion of this soon to air show but. Guess what?? I am a soldier that has to sell a home and look for another in another state 1000′s of miles away because Uncle Sam says so. I cant sell mine quickly or buy one quickly, I have a family that I have to separate from again after getting back from another war (Afghanistan) because I cannot afford to just buy a new home in the new area that I have to work at like most “Hollywood” folks can do. As I look closely at the advertisements for the show the family seems to have an abundance of children– seems that responsibility on the parents is fault for that one “hey honey is having a dozen children going to ever hurt our budget?” hmmm any normal person would think to themselves “lets be careful and budget ourselves for the worst case, but no they own a huge home and an HUMMER. Get real on this show… show real people that have struggled and have planed smartly. My family has not been with me for several deployments “a year or more at a time” because I have a calling to duty to protect our nation and guess what I don’t own a big home or a HUMMER. You want to do a show about hard times show military families kids eating cheap soup and living without their father or mother for a very long period of time having to move every three years because the demand of the military. Don’t show some some rich 9 member family that took a dive and having to go from caviar to steak. Your show sickens me… Want real show REAL people can relate to come video my family…. but yet once again the rich take care of the rich. Barbra Boxer must be the founder for this show.
In addition, how much did the family get for “staring” on this show? Again the rich win and the ones who protect our country and live in shit.
This is really dumb…..who the heck would watch something like this!!! WOW!!! they’ve been downsized…so have most of the freaking world!! !they’re not special!!! Oh my gosh…that’s just really stupid…i saw the commercial and started laughing!
I agree with everything said above:Hagar
show some some rich 9 member family that took a dive and having to go from caviar to steak.In addition, how much did the family get for “staring” on this show? Again the rich win and the ones who protect our country and live in shit.Want real show REAL people can relate to come video my family…. but yet once again the rich take care of the rich
bad enough the “POOR” girl has to lose cheer but now who really gives a care about some family “claiming” they are haing to make huge risks.They way they are going on its like they might be deciding to eat one of their own i mean seriously GET REAL!!!!!!!!!!
My parents are dead my husband is in Afghanistan and no one is leading their hand with a contract to make my two kids and I famous now are they not to mention the family is a wealthy WHITE family. I have nothing else to say i need to calm down and fix dinner.
I wonder how these people qualified for food stamps, in Missouri where I live, it would be welfare fraud. The money they are making for the reality show is more than most of us will see in a life time. I lost my home to forcloser, I was layed of from my job, have relocated,and job searching with nothing promising as of yet. I have 11 grandchildren, how hard it will be for me to tell them grandma won’t be able to buy Christmas gifts this year. Give us a little respect, the people who are really struggling to survive each day….this show is a slap in the face to us who lay awake each night wondering how we are going to make it thru the next day, give us a truely entertaining show to watch…we may have lost a few things and are trying to survive..but we haven’t lost our braines!!
Unbelievable! I can’t believe there is anyone other then other rich people that will want to watch this stupid show. Why are they being rewarded for being so dumb with their finances that they have filed for bankruptcy twice???? What about the people that literally have nothing but somehow manage to scrape together everything they can to support and feed their families? The massive amount of people on unemployment because they cannot get a job because every job that comes available has 400 applicants. How about showing us a family that actually represents the millions of people down on their luck in this country.
I know one of these kids at my school. He is on the baseball team with me and I had NO clue. I will surely be watching this and hope it turns out for the best!
America loves drama, but who feels bad for a family of nine that obviously overextended themselves and never saved up for a rainy day? They deserve double foreclosure and all of the stresses they go through because they put themselves in their predicament. Responsible families that never lived it up like they did are now paying for their food to survive as they drive to the supermarket in their Hummer and television crew. It is this type of crap that has our country in a bind. These reality television shows need to donate their money to the soldiers who risk their lives to afford us freedom, their families who sacrifice and risk losing their loved ones for the sake of our freedom, and our senior citizens that can’t support themselves since we inflated our economy by our excess spending. Boo to this show, shame on this network and shame on anyone who watches, because by watching, the show will survive and this undeserving family will get paid.
wow!! the kids have to go to the grocery store!!what a shame! the concept of this show is a slap in the face to all the hardworking (with a job or jobless) families out there. my family has suffered many losses as well during this recession. yes, it is a struggle but we are getting through it. my 10 year old brother seen this commercial and asked me why they were more important than everyone else! it is sad that he can recognize a slap in the face such as this. I hope they cancel this show after it airs. i cant believe the makers thought it would be a good idea. if you think about it, the way this family goes on, they can’t afford anything extra right? well if the makers thought it would be a good idea to have a reality show that related to the people, then they were wrong because they won’t be able to afford the cable to watch the damn show!! families struggle all the time…quit crying Bruce family, it is called LIFE!!!!
I was sooo curious to see this show…however…can’t afford WE network….
Mom works and teaches in Arizona..I don’t know of any 1st grade teachers that make $37,000 a year….and I live and work in Arizona schools…how lucky is she?
The concept is great to help a family in this economy. I would rather see a series of different familities each week in this this economy. The family seems a bit too orchestrated for me to watch. I would recommend finding a family that is really struggling to make it with low paying jobs, no pay increases, working overtime, homeless, etc. How about selling the mercedes to help pay the bills?
How can these people be appearing on TV in a REALITY show and not be being paid to appear? Sounds like a scam to me.
Wow, all these people hate a show they have never seen? I know that alot of us are on hard times, I am too, but I watched the show, you know why, cuz sometimes misery loves company. I loved when this family that started out with way more than I have ever had, came together to get rent money. The kid sold his prized baseball glove to get it. The mom and dad say they feel like failures, same as I feel. The family worries all the time about money, money is the topic of every conversation, and on and on, just like 60% of families out there today. This show helps me to see, I am not alone, I don’t have to be ashamed because when I go to town to work everyday and feel like crap, cuz my boss is driving a caddy, a coworker just got back from a cruise, and secretly I am crying because I can’t afford a class ring for my 16 year old, and I have no idea where Christmas is coming from, I’m dodging calls from my mortgage banker, direct tv, GE Money, and I need 4 new tires so I can do my job. So no I never lived it up like they did, but I did live it up in my own estimation, and it’s kinda nice to see I’m not the only one scared, and pissed off.
At 1st I wanted to watch the show to see a once wealthy white family fall because of their greed, and their lack of respect for money. I felt as if they were the type of people that did not value what they were blessed with, maybe they were who knows. But instead of feeling as if I won a moral battle, I fell in love with their story and the courage of most of the children and the parents. For them to embrace their challenge and work to conquer it. The parents are amazing as are the kids. I hope things get 10x’s better for this family, and I hope I can watch the transformation! Sadly if every family experienced what this family did I am sure that the people in this country would not be at each others throats politically, spiritually, and emotionally as they are now. Hopefully this changes everyone’s view on life who watches this. It only strengthen my will to be the best I thank the family and WE. My prayers are with you all!!!
A couple of people have already pointed out a serious inconsistency in the premise of this show: namely, the family is supposedly struggling to get by–to come up with $300 for the remainder of their rent–yet has signed a contract to “star” in an eight-part series. Obviously, through this contract, their financial situation is taken care of at least the time the episodes are being filmed. And, isn’t it just a little too coincidental that one of the kids is able to sell a used baseball glove for $100 on the morning the rent is due?
But, the biggest problem is this: the show is titled “downsized,” but the family is still living in a very nice suburb in a very large house. This is “downsizing”? (I have relatives who had to short sell their house, but then moved to a more expensive suburb in a larger, $1 million house–granted they were renting, but I could not believe what they were doing. To top it off, my relatives are planning to declare bankruptcy, after buying a bunch of new stuff, including two flat screen TVs. The Bruce family doesn’t seem much different.)
In fact, from what I could tell, they had a Mercedes parked in this driveway. If they were really struggling, that car certainly would have sold and the family would have bought a cheap clunker.
The whole show is suspicious: it seems as if every scene has been staged.
According to a Washington Post story, they got a “standard reality-show fee [which] they received after taping was complete.” I have no idea what kind of money that is, but during the shooting, they were still trying to get by. If you don’t live in Arizona, then maybe you don’t realize how hard the construction business (Todd’s business was construction) got hit in 2007. It just went away. The Bruces’ made the same mistakes a lot of people did here in Phoenix. When things are going well in the economy, it’s hard sometimes to see the crash that’s coming. A lot of the criticisms of them fall apart when you get to know their story better (I don’t think they ever owned a Hummer. Todd had a work truck that was repo’d though, IIRC.) They’re good people who are going through the same things a lot of people are going through right now. I think the show concept is a good one if it helps ppl get through the tough times in their lives. Oh, and they got on the show by googling casting calls last year & applied for some. One of their daughters thought they’d be more interesting than Jon & Kate +8.
ok 1st things 1st it doesn’t matter what race the are i find it offensive when some people say “that rich white family” we aren’t all rich. and don’t get your panties in a twist because its their family and not your. sure they’re making money off of it but they are still going through hard times so it does count. gssh get a life and stop critizing other people!!!!!
Sell the Mercedes and the Chanel earrings, ( I assume they are real), who is footing the bill for the insurance and gas for the daughter’s “new car”? (Assume it has to be her grandparents). The son sells his glove for $100, the Honda has to be worth at least $7,000-9,000, better yet, keep the fuel efficient honda as a family car and sell the Mercedes…I am not trying to be difficult, but there are too many other families in much worse shape to make this family the poster child for today’s economic woes. I do feel bad for anyone who is going through a monetary hardship, and wish the best for this family and all others….But…are they being paid for the series…at any point? If so, then they most definitely are not representative of “Poverty Level in America” infact, have a look at almost every reality series and how well the families have done since their series started, the Gosselins? OK, the best thing that ever happend to them or they would be on food stamps, Little People Big World? How bout THAT house and Mercedes there too…far cry from the season opener. “18, 19 20 or whatever the number” and Counting? Man, with that ammount of kids…I dont care how many commercial properties he owns, they need that show…and one of the most illegally interesting to hit the screen…Sister Wives, well, if that don’t beat them all,…Now That’s gotta be tough….for HIM …..
I actually like this show. It’s not about the money situation. It’s reality TV it’s about drama. Everyone goes through hard times these days. Maybe this family just got lukcy.
WTF. They are definitely not the worst off. They’re looking at apartments and are too stupid and greedy that they NEED bigger rooms? The wife can’t give up the master bedroom? They deserve to be where they are if they are really there are at all!!!!! Find a real family!!!!
These people are whiny and not realistic. News flash, she is a bad parent. whhaa whaaa cry me a river, no coffee, I hate these people. Idiots, brats and twerps. Please let these people die. Seriously. This show is crap. The wife is whiney and spoiled. The husband is fat and lazy. The kids are AWFUL. Seriously, ebola couldn’t get these peope quick enough. Its called mcdonalds, and walmart. Seriously. Get off your ass and get a job and stop complaining. Work 2 jobs. Seriously. The kids are fat and don’t look like they’ve skipped a beauty appointment ever! These people make america look bad. No one with pride would defend coffee when they are on food stamps. Yes, you are a bad mom. You are teaching your children bad lessons, you shallow tramp.
you guys are all idiots and are just mad you don’t have a tv show. this show is great and i absolutely LOVE it and all the people on it!
I LAY AT NIGHT AND WONDER WHERE IS THE MONEY GOING TO COME FROM WE STILL OWE FOR THIS MONTHS RENT MY ELECTRIC COULD BE SHUT OFF ANY DAY I WORK 2 DAYS A WEEK AS A CAREGIVER MY HUSBAND HAS DRAWED ALL OF HIS UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS OUT AND WE ARE GRANDPARENTS RAISING 2 GRANDCHILDREN I WORRY AND PRAY ALOT I JUST WONDER WHAT THEY GET PAID FOR THIS SHOW THEY ARE DOING AND HOW DO THEY GET FOODSTAMPS AND LIVE IN THE HOUSE THEY ARE IN AND DRIVE THOSE CARS I HAVE TO TAKE A BUS OR WALK WHY CANT THEY I WILL NOT WATCH THE SHOW AGAIN.
Well I love this show!!!! I think Rex is super HOTT!!!!! I love watching your show I watch it everytime it is on and I really wish to meet you guys!!!!
TO Respond to the question of,”Who would watch this show?” The audience that will watch this show will be people who have either experienced this exact scenario or who is experiencing this scenario. This show can give others the common bond that you don’t get while going through this issue. I’m managing through this exact story. I experience 100% commonality of what this family is experiencing. For me I’m recovering, but I didn’t have a big TV network to assist me. I’ve done it all on my own and I’m still able to take care of my family. So, yes there is still an audience. American’s are still struggling through these things.
The thing that honestly drives me nuts is how the mom reacts to everything. She doesn’t want to cut back. She just wants to make excuses. Her gormet coffee is ridiculous. I understand she has M.S and I know physically she may not have energy but what the heck happened to a coffee pot at home? She can get it in bulk at a grocery store and take it with her! I could never justify spending a hundred and fifty dollars on that each month and then turn around and accept a hundred dollars from my child? It won’t kill their kids to go without. That way they may actually grow up and know how to work hard for something and appreciate what they have worked for. I think that may be the mom’s problem…she is the one who acts like kil them to cut things out. Maybe if they did and didn’t blow their budget every month they could get ahead and get back on their feet…then slowly work their extras and small luxuries back in. But at the rate they are going…they will never get it turned around.
i understand the cofee to keep energey up, she can get that same energy from making it herself, from a dr. ofc the gas station. sell the mercedes, i know it was her moms but take a picture with her in it then sell it. for a time the kids needs to come out of baseball/cheerleading.. you cant live/eat/wear gourmet cofee/cheerleading or baseball and though they would be sad it is what it is… life. i do like laura’s comment that this moment in their life will better them and they will have skills to survive as adults; eccept that whinny bailey! really? SHUT UP and get on the team! stop hating on todd’s daughter cause HER mom does her part- the non custodial parent is suppose to chip in by law! question- where the heck is laura’s ex and why isnt he helping her out? todd and laura if baily doesnt want to move leave that heifer there! i am a single parent of one and my kid was foolin around when we had to move for financial reason- i told her the exact same thing- you aint ready moving day, you left here! i do like the boys, smart cookies, like the two of the girls (bailys a pain) and i love todds parent ing skills! to the bruce family, sorry the posts have been sooo HARSH! some are very true, people been living like this for years and it just happen to hit you- buck up, cut back, get a grip! with God you will survive millions have!
not fair for danielle to keep gymnastics while the boys gave up baseball- they both love their sports but it isnt fair! laura shouldnt have given her the choice but just said we have to pull back for a minute… danielle handles things better than laura and baily.. then whats the point? as a single parent of one who went off to jr. college at 16 and i was givning her half of her chid support so she wouldnt have to work while studying… at the same time i was layed off from a job paying 18.16/hr and nw work another job that pays 10/hr so i had to make a hard choice to take back over half of what i PROMISED to give her so that we could keep our apt., rental furniture, have heat/lights, cell phones, and gas in the car… the FIA took our 135 a month in food stamps because i get a little UIA… sooo laura needs to get a grip! with god’s grace i have been living like this for the last 17 years. look into scholarships, i went to camp on scholarships, she’s been blessed to hacve all her summers/weekend activities scholarshipped! PRIDE commeth befor the fall- when you have life/children you cant have PRIDE!
When I watch this program I think about what must of us have done to our families with the way this economy is tanking. We are no different then this family. They just heard about the casting call and we didn’t (have your 15 minute pity party & move on). Military families that’s a different reality show that someone should think about financing. I agree that things are very hard for you and we could all learn a few lessons from your families…like appreciating each other and being thankful that we get to sleep so peacefully at night.
The kids aren’t any more spoiled then most of our kids but they are getting it, which is more then I can say about some of the spoiled unappreciative kids that are around.
So many of you have taken the time to make comments about this show and most of what you wrote is incorrect. The Mercedes is a gift from her Dad, it was her Mom’s. Their children are beautiful…you can get that look without a beauty appoitment.
I would love to know how many of your kids would step up to the plate and do what these kids have done.
I for one am thankful for this show. The rest of you enjoy watching your Jersey Shore programs…side note – use spell & grammar check you might end up with a better job.
Help me out with how you get your own show and how you get food stamps, take all activities away from your kids yet you as a MOTHER can spend 175$ a month on Starbucks coffee??? How are you screwing the system. Let me in on your secrets? You have free health care to? So… Im struggling along with most of Arizona and my tax dollars are going to feed your family STEAKS???? Im sick to my core about this show. I find it offensive. I cant believe the info you shell out to your kids as parents. Did you really say “You as a Family got into this mess”??? Correction you as GROWN ADULTS got YOUR FAMILY into this mess, your kids were there as kids they never asked to be born into a non saving household! Its hard enough to be a kid, let alone wondering if your parents are going to be able to keep a roof over your head. But hey, Mom needs the coffee, keeps her awake with MS and all. Even though its a proven FACT that apples are more efficient in waking you up then a cup of coffee! I hope your all enjoying the steaks we taxes payers are paying for! I sure wish I knew how to sucker the government into giving my family food stamps, free health care and daily star bucks coffee’s ! Oh and lets not forget terrorizing my kids on being late with the rent AGAIN!
I have watched this show from the beginning. Laura-I really hope you read these posting. You say you do not want to be portrayed as a bad mother, well you are!! All I have seen is your children sacrafice and have to give up what they love but Todd’s kids have given up really NOTHING!!!!! Your children dug through dumpsters to help pay the rent not Todd’s. Your children don’t get new clothes and shoes but Todd’s do. I know you said that “you bought clothes with your bonus”, did this include Todd’s kids too? It should not hey they get plenty. Well the viewers did not see new clothes this week! Baily did not get a car, Todd’s did. Baily did not go to the prom, Todd’s did. Why did you not offer to buy your daughters prom ticket with part of your bonus? The fact is it does not matter who bought these things for Todd’s kids, your child sold his glove to pay the rent. Why is Heather not selling her car? Why does his son not sell his new shoes or other new things he comes home with to help the family. Todd justifies it by saying the kids mother and the kids grandparents buy these things but your parents can’t help you. His pride comes into play. I would call my parents-your kids grandparents and do what I had to do for my kids. But not you, it would piss Todd off and his pride would be offended. What a crock. TOO BAD SO SAD for Todd. He should be ashamed of his children’s behavior and morales. What message are you sending to your children? Why not make Heather leave her car at her moms and she can drive it when she is there. That would be fair. At least Baily would not have to look at it daily and be reminded that she does not get one handed to her. Todd said if it was Baily who got the car she would have accepted it, well who knows if this is true she hasn’t gotten anything given to her has she. In fact what the veiwers see is that none of your kids get anything handed to them they do the sacraficing. The same should go for all the gifts they receive from that side of the family. Leave them at their mothers, they go every other weekend. Almost all your kids have talked about the items Todd’s kids get and that they have to do without. You are allowing these things to be shoved down your kids throats and it is just too bad for your kids, that’s not fair. They will and are resenting this and they will questioned why you have not stood up for them and you haven’t. You are their MOM. The only one in their lives to stand up for them and be their voice. You need to put your kids first and quit allowing Todd to justify this BS when his kids walk around better then your kids. SHAME ON YOU!! Tell Todd to go to hell. You talk about how your kids amaze you, (and they truly are amazing) well maybe its time for Todd’s kids to start sacraficing and do a little amazing too. It really pisses me off to see these things for all your kids especially Baily and your boys and I am just a viewer. It should piss you off too but it seems to not matter how or what your kids are feeling. Maybe you should watch the show yourself and see the hurt that your children have to endure daily, that’s what we are all seeing. Wake Up Laura.
they get paid AFTER the taping is done…in the meantime, we are watching this as a family and our children are learning some great lessons about saving up for a rainy day or the disaster of losing a job. thanks “downsized” family!!
p.s. those of you making comments about them overextending themselves…don’t pretend that you wouldn’t and haven’t done the same thing.
This is total BS, because they are being paid very will for the show. So how is this real..
Why are Todd and Laura not receiving child support? Todd’s ex-wife is mentioned as “helping out” with prom tickets, etc. I thought the law required the non-custodial parent to pay monthly support. Or – why don’t Todd’s kids go live with their mother until things get better?
Todd’s children’s grandmother gave Heather a car but allows her to remain with her father who is receiving foodstamps and other government assistance.
It just doesn’t add up.
I have an idea how Todd can bring in some cold hard cash for the family, lets face it, he’s the epitome of a very sexy,beefy blue collar guy, and the producers seem to show off his hot body by panning him in sexy work out shorts and other hot scenes especially without his shirt and in bed probably in nothing or just his briefs…as we have to assume. What red blooded frustrated gay man wouldn’t love to service hunky men like him….for a price of course….ya’ …the poor economy has created a big “Trade” market that’s going on right now as sexy straight, out of work blue collar “Joes” like him have realized that they can make some amzing money selling what women have sold throughout history. Ya, sounds harsh, but you do what you can to feed your family, and having the looks which are in demand and will pay off, use use what you have, and get to work!
Really harsh comments. I agree with some of them, mainly the ones aimed towards Laura, but it’s unfair to target the kids. They are just that…kids! First, many of us have been or are going through the same thing, but the BIG difference is most of us were never living that high off the hog. So this family has some major adjustments to make and will feel the pain more than most. (You can’t miss what you’ve never had) If you’ve never experienced the good life, then you don’t know what it feels like. I can’t imagine having so much and then having it taken away. Sure they WILL be getting compensated but it’s not enough for them to go back to their old lifestyle. The humility they have to endure for a monetary compenstation is a high price to pay. Hopefully it will be enough to get them back on their feet otherwise it was all for nothing. Second, I believe many will watch the show to feel that things could be worse. Those of us who squeaked by the crumbling of the economy and are able to keep our homes but maybe not our lifestyles we are accustomed to can learn A LOT from this family. I for one, did NOT save for a rainy day. Luckily we tightened belts and picked up more hours. We did not lose our home but could have. Things are better now, still tight but better. I’ve learned a few things to save me more money and it makes me feel even more blessed that I’m not in that situation. My heart goes out to the kids.
You know what is the absolutly worst about all the comments re; ‘downsized’? It clearly shows how uneducated ie; spelling & grammer the average American is! Geez people use spell check!!!
I myself find the show very funny. I was in the Construction Industry. But I saw the building boom about to end in the fall of 06. I retired in Feb 07 with 30 years Union Operating Engineers. Sold our NJ home and moved to Central Florida. My wife and I bought a 3/2 home in a short sale. I get about 5k per month. Very poor planning with this family. Also we raised 6 children. Like I said we find the show very funny
If this show is called “Downsized”- why is there a mercedes in the drive way?? what am I missing here??
I grew up in a family of five and we struggled the whole time, not just for a year or two. I can tell you that this family is NOT doing without. Maybe these ungrateful people should visit a homeless shelter. First off, when we were teenagers, if we wanted to go to a prom or buy clothing, we had to have a job. Why don’t these teenagers have jobs? Why can’t they shop at a consignment shop? Secondly, I’m sick of this whiny mother claiming her kids have it so tough. Tough? Since when does it cost money to have fun? As kids, my family never went on vacation, and never did any sports or music lessons. And we never thought we had it tough. But we had food on the table, a roof over our head and lots of love. We learned how to do without things we didn’t need, how to be thrifty and how to make leftovers out of meals. Spending $500 on eating out just blows my mind. For that amount of money, they can buy alot of groceries with coupons even for 9 people. These whiney, spoiled brats are not going to be “damaged” because they don’t have what they want or because they have to give up stuff so they can pay the rent. They will actually be better for it. And gourmet coffee? Puleeze …I can afford gourmet but it bugs me to waste money on it. The father is pretty level headed. The mother has no clue. I know of many families who have it much worse then they do.
I hate this show. The mother is a complete moron and the father is a complete tool. He says they got into it together? How is that? Your children are responsible for your poor money management? He uses that as an excuse to use them as slave labor. How selfish is the mother who continues to get expensive coffee and how much of a jerk takes away a cell phone he doesn’t even pay for. These people are morons and the father is an abusive bully.
This show is sad. I feel for the family alot. Not all people realize how difficult life gets when you lose so much. It is wonderful that they all have each other though. I think the family has super values and morals that they are sharing with their children. I also think they are really sincere people doing the best they can. I sat and watched two episodes back to back. It made me want to reach out and help them out. I’ve been there, maybe that is why I feel compassion. For those of you who only want to pick them apart and tell us how much worse you have it, save it. This forum is not about you. We all have issues in life, they are doing something about theirs, like this show .. it is all good. For those of you who need help yourselves .. it is out there, maybe watching this show can teach us all a little about how to make it in a changing economy.
I am also insulted by this show…and have watched my last episode, so sorry Laura, no second season from me…I feel we as hard working tax payers have already given. I would never call someone a bad mother, but to spend $150 a month on gourmet coffee while your children sacrafice is pathetic. I could not buy one $5 coffee knowing I am borrowing from my kids and they are worrying about losing their home, but we see you sucking down several, and the lame excuse of MS, I have it too sister, and it is bad for the disease and you know it. There are several other fruits and proteins for energy…or cheap coffee does the trick, you have a masters degree…figure it out. Your Channel earrings are nice and the rock on your finger…oh and the Mercedes is “priceless” so live in it. Oh, but you can’t give up the Master bedroom for your children…but your daughter can’t go to prom. I worry that without Todd, this family would really be in a mess. Laura, the mother has no idea whats in the bank account, what is on the food stamp card, and stands there in her Channel earrings twisting her big diamond telling viewers they have sold everything…yes you can sell a wedding ring…a band has the same value in a marriage. Have you noticed they keep panning down to your ring? Not very bright, and you have spoiled the little one so much that the other kids have noticed. GREAT PARENTING…and you had the nerve to tell the financial advisor your insulted? You should be. You whine more than any of the children and your son sold his glove and your sniveling about gourmet coffee? I hope Todd wakes up and leaves…you obviously have always been lacking in the responsibility department, 5 kids? I can’t have 5 children, I knew I could not afford them. So keep crying…keep putting the pressure on your kids and guilting them as you suck on your frozen mocha and I hope your earrings and ring bring you contentment and happiness. I have no idea how you got a beautiful daughter like Bailey but the younger one was well on her way to be just like Mommy. Oh, and I have an idea how Bailey can go to Prom next year…you can skip a trip or two to Starbucks…but oh the sacrafice…and the MS, doubt you have that even. Poor Todd could not even get away for a minute, you made the kids call him right away about the broken door, I mean it was an emergency after all…could not wait for him to get home, or for you to figure out…that might take forever. Enjoy the money from the show…I’m sure you will have it spent in time for next season.
This show is crap. What about the ex’s. Why have a third car when you can’t make rent. Why don’t the teenage girls work outside the home instead of whining about having to clean the house? This family is getting food stamps, free medical from the state even though they have income from the TV residual?? What down and out family do you know that would not considered fraudulent reporting of the income from the show? A thousand dollars on clothes for the family is spent from a bonus yet they cannot pay the rent?
This show commends irresponsibility and income fraud not downsizing of a family.
Is this show for real? I don’t even know where to begin. What an insult to those who really are struggling. Are we really supposed to feel sorry for the mom who can’t have her “gourmet coffee”. Please! Seriously, I am so dissappointed that WE would invest in this type of show. There are so many more people who would be so deserving of your (WE’s) money. I’m looking at the mom’s ring (sorry, I couldn’t even stomach one entire episode so I don’t even know her name), but can we say pawn the ring? It reminds me of the Yahoo article about the family who hat 12 million dollars and managed to go broke. Boo hoo. And to the Bruce family….boo hoo to you too. Get a grip. And to WE, uh can we say lost another viewer.
I am curious about the ex husband of Laura’s children and if Todd is having to pay any money to his ex-wife. Do Laura’s children not have to see their father ?
As a former teacher without a master degree, I made more than $37,000.00 a year. Are the Bruce family really telling the whole story ?
How dare the food take food stamps and the mom buys Starbucks coffee everyday, and gets upset that she’s called out on that by the financial planner? Why are my tax dollars paying for her to have Starbucks when I cannot afford it?
Great show it should be a inspiration for all that struggle I have a family of 9 children and was also in a simliar situation with the economy. I think it is gutsy for a family to expose there whole life so others can benefit. For all those negative people life will shine on them one day to.
About them getting paid – I read in another article that they didn’t get paid until after the filming ended, so their financial problems are legitimate.
However, I still despise these parents. Besides being terrible at managing money, they show the worst sort of favoritism among the kids. The mother sobbed about cutting the youngest girls cheerleading lessons that were almost $200/month, but didn’t seem all that sad about telling the boys they couldn’t play summer ball that was the same price for the whole summer. The worst part is that at least one of the boys is hoping to get a baseball scholarship. Seriously.
I also think Todd should think about getting a real, steady job. Like the planner said, during the boom, any schmuck could make it in the construction business, but not anymore.
This show is sloppy. Looks like they just threw it together to pass it off as, “downsizing”. Were they even interviewed? The parents are lazy and whiny, while the kids seem to be ungrateful and spoiled rotten. Should give them a kick in the butt though. Life sucks, grow a back bone and show some responsibility.
I have viewed all episodes of “Downsized” that have aired to date, and no doubt will view those remaining. But what I think that participants at this discussion have overlooked is that this is entertainment – and this “camera ready” family will be compenstated for being entertainers.
ok, these people are NOT struggling..u want to know struggling, move to a 2-3 bedroom apartment, not a 5 bedroom home, drive a bucket, not a bmw, and eat hamburger helper for dinner with water, not steak and sprite..these retarded people are living a life sum people would die for..and i must say, they are making the kids give up EVERYTHING, baseball, prom, cable, cheerleading, what has the parents given up? NOTHING!!!! these people make me sick!!!!!this is a joke!!!
I love the show, but Laura and the kids are spoiled. They cry over coffee, cheerleading, cable, Internet, cell phones, and working. Everyone is spoiled except for the husband, who does everything to keep his wife happy. And besides if they were on a budget why were they all eating 12 oz steaks for dinner on one of the episodes? They are rich and they are getting paid to make themselves look poor.Its deceitful but what the heck everything on television is now a days.
Show disgrace to America. My heart goes out to anyone struggling in this country. However, they are being paid for this show so it is a fraud. Cancel this show!
This family may not be getting paid as they tape the show but their getting a check everytime Todd or the boys wears one of those Under amour shirt- pay attention people we’re being had!!!!!! It’s a misjustice to those of us who truly has a situation!
Cry me a river. Another family broke o.k. so what. Don’t blame the current goverment. Blame Bush and blame the greed of this family. This family is luck to have a roof over their head and they are still crying. First of all you lived the American dream .. spending, spending more then you could afford. Now you have a t.v. show big deal. Let’s have a show that realty show that means something like how a family lives everyday without the crying and continue to go on.
I think that it is freakin rediculous that when they went to the financial advisor they had 500 dollars budgeted for eating out. They are on freakin foodstamps!!!!! Give me a break I hope this show gets canceled!!
This show is so stupid.It is called down sizing when the wife drives a mersadies.They spend $500 on eating out and they are on foodstamps.What are these people retarded there kids are fricken roten. I thank they need to take some responability.
This show is ridiculous! They show how this combined family is struggling so much, but no where does it say anything about the kids biological mom(to Todd’s kids) and the dad to Laura’s kids???
Dont they have a couple of teenage kids that are old enough to get a job themselves? There are families out there with kids at the age of 16 are out working there butts off to help take care of there family, families that are living in homeless shelters and these people live in a big ole house and drive nice cars BUT they are struggling??.
I am sure in Arizona they have like a Parks and Rec program for the kids that allows them to play there sports and cheer without having to pay money for the kids to be in. YMCA maybe?
It makes me so irritated about the whole Prom episode! Laura’s daughter didnt go cause of the money but Todd’s daughter did…..how is that fair? It doesnt matter if her mom paid for her to go or not, both of them were in the same school, in the same family……they shouldnt have let one go and not the other. I am a parent of 2 teenage kids and I would sell everything I could for my kids to attend there Prom.
To me this family is just like every other family out there that has hard times due to the economy. They are far from struggling.
a year ago my husband and i lost are home to forclosure ,i try everyday not to be bitter and its hard this was are first home ,we lived there for 8 years.my husband who was laid of for 3 monthes and thats all it took.when i think of all the hard work he put into the house i could cry,it wasn,t a huge house just a 3 bedroom bungalo but it was are,s and we would have been happy to stay there for the rest of are lifes.no one could predict that so many people would lose there homes,jobs and that there lifes would change forever.we had rasised two sets of twins 2 are 29 and 2 19 ,my husband has a decent job as for myself i have been on unemployment for almost a year been looking and cant find anything, so i can relate to this family who cares if they are getting paid for the show,all the power to them i love the show because it is reality and for any one out there who has lost there home or job or bussiness you must be understanding.and for all of you who still have your homes ,you dont know what youve got until its,gone.take care of each other,thank-you
I came across this show one night and have now watched every episode. Having lived in the Anthem area, but not knowing this family, I think they are teaching their kids something. The dad seems caring, Mom, yes, a little whiney, but she holds a full-time job with MS…let’s give her a break. Do they have too many kids? Possibly, but they are all great kids who look like they are straight, don’t do drugs and seem family oriented….how can that be bad? Everyone wants to comment on the Mercedes in the drive, but it is an older car, probably worth very little, and sounds like it is going to break down any minute. I think everyone needs to give this family a break, and if you are so disgusted by it, then I say don’t watch it. I find it educational, entertaining and I think more families should be as close with their kids as the Bruce’s. Could it be that you are all jealous that they did not pick your family???
I think this family was chosen because of the last 56 comments. It draws people… people in support of them and people p.o.’d by them. The mercedes is only worth $1500. While the reason she gave was that it was her mother’s there is also the fact of having so many kids and needing another vehicle. $1500 isn’t going to go so far compared to the benefit it could be to their family.
Even though it is somewhat contrived, maybe people who are in similar situations may learn so tips and trick from it even though this family will be paid at the end of taping and probably be out of their situation… unless they don’t learn anything, then they will have some money thrown at their problem and be looking for another reality show to star in a few months later.
There’s good and bad in everything… real and fake in everything on tv. It is what it is.
Hate the show all you want but the more controversy it receives the higher the ratings. In just three episodes there’s been some real growth in the way this family is pulling together and cutting their lifesyle, let’s hope it continues.
Please have this family come live with me.
They can cram into my 400 sq ft apartment I pay $1100 a month for. That’s cheap for Orange County. I have no washer & dryer, dishwasher or microwave. I can’t afford cable tv,or an automobile and I take the bus. Forget any personal luxuries like getting my hair or nails done, buying new clothes. I shop at thrift stores. I make just enough money at my job to NOT qualify for food stamps. If I try to look for a cheaper place to live I can’t save up the money to move. I have no credit card debt or mortgage debt.I’m just flat broke. To hear these people whine about how they are roughing it is an insult! I see their house and it looks like a mansion to me! I only watched 3 episodes with my friend and I had to make her turn it. The mom didn’t even know how to use a vacuum cleaner at her cleaning job. HA! What a bunch of spoiled individuals. Have them walk a mile in someone else’s shoes for one day. Better yet, have them go down to their local homeless shelter and see what really being broke is. I use to be on food stamps years ago and I would get comments from people in line about me getting a job or giving me the disgusted look. Now I see the same type of people in the high income brackets losing their house and cars and minds because they just do not know how to survive without their Starbucks, SUV’s and Spa treatments. There is nothing wrong with having material things. If you can afford good for you! But please don’t whine to me about you not being able to go to the Spa and get your Manicure/Pedicure & Highlights when I’m washing my hair in $.99 Sauve Shampoo and eating, for the 4th time this week, Top Ramen Noodles.
I believe they have a contract where they don’t get any money until the series is done filming. Though I think they are spoiled. They are now seeing what it takes to live in the real world and I think their kids will be better off for it. I also applaud their resourcefullness.
Wow some of you people are unbelievable. Are you just bitter by nature or jealous it wasn’t your family chosen for the show? According to records they will earn $300 per episode once taping is complete, so do your research before saying “they are making a hell of a lot of money for doing the show”……. In addition, while everyone cries about how bad their lives are how can you possibly judge others when you aren’t in their shoes? My family has had a tragic couple of years and have lost more than I can even recall gaining, but I find the show helpful. Kids don’t understand the reality of what the economy has done to us all and this generation of kids have a sense of entiltlement with a lack of appreciation for what they have or think they should have, so I find it beneficial to have children/teenagers watch what a family should do pulling together in these times. To the person/people talking about the mercedes in their driveway like if they sell it somehow their financial worries will be over. Do your research that car was passed down through the family, has emotional value, but very little financial value due to age…….. Listen we have all been wronged and are in the struggle of our lives trying to “make it” through these terrible times, but we can choose not to be victims that whine and cry because we think someone else has it better. That’s exactly what I’m teaching my kids not to be. I’m not trying to offend anyone just trying to put things in perspective.
Wow they are struggling and they want to have another baby. They are complete mental cases. Also what teenagers would want to call their Step Dad of 2 years “Dad”? They all get so mushy. It’s ridiculous. So fake. They are ripping off the government with collecting food stamps. They don’t qualify for them. Todd should go to Missouri for 6 months to work. People get real. Soldiers go to Iraq for a year or two. This is so absurd. I wonder how the kids real Dad feels about what the kids are saying about him. He’s probably ready to jump off a cliff. Lastly, why aren’t Todd’s children living with their Mother?? Oh, that’s right they want to be on TV.
I love this show and I watch it every week. I am hearing a lot of bitterness about “feeling sorry” for them. The Bruce’s never ask for sympathy. It is reality TV folks. What are you expecting out of any show that has TV camera following a family around? Some people liked the Osborne’s routinely dropping “F” bombs. Some people liked watching Hugh Hefner and his two Playboy girlfriends. Maybe you like Denise Richards, Sarah Palin, Hulk Hogan’s family, Gene Simmons, or The Kardashians. I have to laugh. I like to watch a family who is led by a man who worked hard to make a lot of money. They are now picking themselves back up after getting knocked down.
Now that the final episode #8 has aired, I thought I would submit additional comments to those I made at posting #55.
The Bruce family readily acknowledges they were living way over their heads, and, as has been the case with any “bubble’ throughout history, those benefiting from it tend to hold “it’s forever”.
But Todd admits he messed up, and should have put the brakes upon the family’s consumption as well his unbounded optimism regarding his business enterprise. But somehow I think the experience has made him into a much tougher guy. In the final episode, he has an opportunity for a well paying job in Missouri, however he must first “invest” in an airline ticket and other travel costs to go and interview for such. While the outcome is not known as the final scene is him walking away from his family at the airport, when he said “I must do what I have to do to support my family’, he let me know he’s “my kind of guy’.
For Laura, on the other hand, I am not quite so empathetic. While some here have called her “clueless’ and other derogatory terms, I just think she is a quite naive Italian-American princess (Carmella Soprano of sorts). I believe she loves her family, and is a ‘good Mother”. I further commend her for keeping up her attractive personal appearance in the face of the family’s adversities and her own debilitating disease – MS.
But in the early episodes, she was reluctant to give up her Starbucks (luxury coffee per the script). She stated throughout she never had to do without as a kid (the Mercedes I guess is indicative of that) and so why should her own kids. It almost seemed as if her eldest child, Bailey, handled the matter of the Prom (unable to afford) than did she.
I hope that Laura’s Sister appearing in the final episode and a gal who impressed me as “having her head screwed on”, can be an influence to Laura should Todd accept this out of town temporary job opportunity. Apparently Laura, at age 40, wants to have a child with Todd; her Sister sure shot that one down fast.
All told “it’s over’; I viewed it as entertainment first and a lesson on life only second. Thank you for reading.
I don’t believe they are as poor as they portray themselves to be. I am sure they get paid to do the show, and since they both are the custodial parents of the children, child support must be pretty decent. This show is a load of crap.
Half of you people are idiots and obviously do not watch the show. Yes, these people get paid for doing the show, but it’s REALITY TV, they don’t get paid like movie stars. Shut up. Seriously. They admit they screwed up, who doesn’t make mistakes? I can agree with Laura about not selling her car as well. It was her mom’s and now her mom has passed. My own father passed, and if I had his vehicle I wouldn’t sell it for anything in this world. Some of you are cold and heartless and if you want to complain constantly about the show, then stop watching it. No one forces you to watch it. The show can give some of us who might be going through hard times some ideas on what we all can do to improve.
I always see the kids working and the dad standing arouund supervising, plus you have the mom working all the time. It seems like he is making the kids pay for the adults mistakes.
I haven’t had to downsize because we didn’t live beyond our means. As everyone else that had more than us is cutting back, we have gotten a 20% pay increase. We make six figures and still drive older cars and are picking up great deals from the ones that are having to downsize.
It makes me sick that while I live below my means, I get the privilege of providing food stamps to these stupid parents still drinking $5 a day of coffee. We make six figures and I still can’t justify buying coffee for that much per day, per week or per month. Quit whinning. You are a bad mother to think your addiction to coffee is more important than rent. To whine about coffee during an episode with the financial planner telling you that you were out of line and you cried over coffee. Wrong and selfish. Maybe you fall asleep standing up not due to MS, but due to an addiction to coffee. Detox and grow up…Laura.
I watched the episode where todd was offered a job away from his family.
I’m sure there are many soilders who have a year tour of duty making half the money todd would make in six months…the family’s of the soilders would not complain.
Todd is doing right for his family
oh please. give me a BREAK. it’s a good show. your all a bunch of jealous, whiney, babies. grow up.
I love this show It motivate me to save money in every way I can and I get more creative.
Why didn’t Todd keep better books and realize how bad the finances were getting before they hit rock bottom? I am sure they can find a much much smaller house. They don’t need a home with an office. Put all 3 girls into one room and the boys in one room, the Brady Bunch did it. The biggest question is where is the child support????? How can a family of this size afford a rental payment this high but yet qualify for food stamps? Did everyone notice Laura’s tiffany necklace???? They are def getting paid way more than $300 per episode!!! Look what John and Kate got paid!
Well I guess Canadian comments are not welcome here. I’ll pass that along. Have anice day.
I like the show and I feel it is true to reality. Most Americans are only 1 paycheck away from being in their shoes. They aren’t the only ones who haven’t been “saving for a rainy day”. If you watch all the episodes, you’d know why they have a Mercedes, although I do agree she could sell her earrings instead of having her kids sell their baseball gloves. I do like the blended family concept and the challenges that takes and then adding in the financial burden of everything makes the show different and interesting to watch. I’m hopeing others can learn from watching this show. I’m anxious for new episodes!
Why are all these military people complaining? The last time I checked, the military recruits on a volunteer basis. You are also paid well considering many enlisted don’t have any education beyond a high school diploma. If you don’t want to go to Iraq and Afghanistan then don’t join the military during a time when two wars are going on. My experience as a ten year veteran is that many people join the military because they are directionless and have screwed up their lives to that point. So don’t be too quick to judge the shortcomings of others. Putting on a uniform doesn’t make you a hero. It means that you have made a decision to join an organization by contract with terms that are spelled out clearly when you enlist. Heroes are people who don’t seek recognition or sympathy. They do their job, take care of business and don’t complain. So just shut up, do your tour of duty, kill some terrorists and come home to a free college education.
Gary Samela,
Not every person in military enlisted since they were screw ups! Some people join since they made a youthful indiscretion and bought into the unrealistic idealism, not to mention, a lack of a forthright recrutier. Furthermore, an E4 makes 23 to 24 thousand annually, and is that really worth the traumatic psychological stress or potential death? You have to live and come out unscathed, in order to receive the”so called” education which is no longer entirely free, soldiers now pay a portion remember or are you grandfathered? Exactly why did you join? Any chance you have ever viewed anything from another person’s perspective or circumstance? Chances are you are very similar to the folks on this television show. It seems you may be the typical military “Lemming” who can only reason one way; that has no desire to do something else in life besides stay in the military. Lastly, yes some people did “screw off” then join the military, and straighten out. I know a number of College kids that squander parents tuition payments, and that makes them superior? The military that complain about this family are correct. There is a Mercedes in their driveway, the mom has a huge rock on her finger, and Coach earrings, but they can not figure out how to get 300 bucks to make rent, and you have the audacity to judge other military members for their opinions. How many enlisted members have such luxuries? Try to understand other perspectives, even if you respectfully disagree! That is how it is suppose to be in the civilian world, but the military does not want anyone to think for themselves! Here is an idea, MAYBE Some people feel bad killing, LT. KALLY! Even if they knew what they were “getting into.” I come from a military family, and have two children in the service. Both were good students, and one even left college, because some B.S recruiter talked him into it! Open your mind, and and show some respect, exactly what makes you better? Are you an arrogant Hudson High man?
The parents have both set bad examples, children learn by actions, hence the old cliche,”actions speak louder than words.”
dont the parents recievechild support? i did research the family is recieving $90kper episode..the show is making a story about hard tymes and what people are going thru, and methods to get by month to month..if this was real the wife should sell her bmw..
I would love to know how you found out they make 90k per episode…
she “knows” because she says she does, I guess. I highly doubt they were making anything near that. However, it makes people feel better to knock them.
The parents admit that they screw-up. They are trying to get things back on track. The mercedes isn’t worth much at all, so the cost of replacing it with another vehicle (which they would need) would probably cost more. They get food stamps because they meet the requirements or they wouldn’t get them, so people need to get over that. I don’t like that my tax money goes to give food stamps to lazy ass people living off the system and not trying at all, but I put more emphasis on the fact that I am so very glad I am not someone who needs food stamp assistance to make it. I’d rather be on this side of that. As for the “they live in a mansion, etc” stuff … come on. Every state has laws about how many people per bedroom when it comes to renting. Buying is different. I could have 10 kids and buy a three bedroom house, but if I am renting then a landlord could not legally rent a 3 bedroom house to me.
This show really frustrated me at first. As a person with no debt it is very easy to cut back and figure out what needs to be done. I know a “need” vs “want” but if someone like me was the star of the show it would be a two episode season. There are so many people like this family who don’t understand that $4 lattes add up and still think their kids need to be in expensive extracurriculars when they can’t make rent. I have co-workers constantly complaining about their money and how much they are cutting back while walking in with frappachinos. I think this family is a good example of the fallen american dream, they are learning as they are going which may be a slower pace than the viewer can understand but I’m sure some people are learning lessons from this and preventing more families from going through this
Educate yourself before running your mouths. Everybody is putting down this family without having watched it. Everyone is so consumed upon the fact she drives a mercedes-it’s like 15 yrs old and was her deceased mother’s car…. It’s sentimental! How many old mercedes do you see in the ghetto? Pretty freakin many! but that is somehow classy when a gold-toothed drug dealer rolls out of one! These people are remarried, joining 7 kids together. They didnt procreate as a goal not to work and collect food stamps! The difference between half you and this family, they are all pulling together and they all want to work. Guess what…they turned their cable off to save money, try it! Instead of sitting around judging, get off your butts and do something productive. This lady’s cleaning homes for extra money! What do you do for extra cash(that’s legal)? I tuned in to see if i could pick up any good tips on saving. Maybe all you cry babies could learn something if you actually watched it.
Me above said it best. It sounds like many of you are crying because they got the show and you didn’t. Before you judge someone’s situation, maybe you should gather all of the facts. This is a BLENDED family. It is in the previews but many of you are commenting without knowing the entire situation.
As already mentioned, these people are not riding around in brand new expensive cars. The Mercedes was Laura’s mothers who passed away. It is a very old used car that is PAID for. The children paid for their own cars and they work to pay for insurance and gas.
So what if they got some money for doing the show. You have no idea how much debt they were carrying versus how much they are getting paid. It becomes clear that they had to work hard to get out of the hole.
AND, for those of you that think things have been great for them, Laura (the mother) has Multiple Sclerosis and is working two jobs. MS is debilitating yet this woman keeps finding ways to make ends meet.
So, crybabies go away or watch the show and then make some comments.
Wow, I like the show. We are going through the same thing and I have learned alot watching it. Reading some posts I feel like I am back in middle school. Instead of everyone hating on this family because they are getting 15 minutes of fame, why cant we just be happy for them. That’s whats wrong with this country…I have a baby that needs open heart surgery, I lost my job from missing time when my son was sick, I am claiming bankruptcy and am going to lose my house….oh and we have 6 other children, but my son is alive, my other kids and my hubby are healthy so I smile and try to make the best of what I’ve got. It has actually made me appreciate life and find the good in bad situations. I could be hateful have self pity, but that is energy that would take away from me enjoying my son. Everyone should just live by the rule if you don’t have anything nice to say just shut up! If you don’t like the show change the channel.
Grammar not grammer …
I can not BELIEVE the audacity of WE TV to even consider renewing this “monument to reckless spending and frivolous financial planning” for a second season. Are you kidding me?!! Why should the Bruces get ANY public assistance? ANY family who can afford to spend $15-18K per month should have been savvy enough to build a substantial, easy-to-access nestegg; even with 7 children. The health insurance issue is even more ridiculous! Doesn’t “loser Laura” have access to single/family health insurance through her school employment? With 7 children that should have been a priority. This family, with their warped concept of “living at the poverty level”, is MUCH better off than 75% of average American households. When you look at their residence, their vehicles ( stretch van, Grand Cherokee, and Beemer), designer jewelry, high-end labeled apparel, and name-brand running shoes, you get the idea that “Toad and Loser” don’t have a clue about what real poverty is. A little kitchen cooking tip, Laura: you can fry more than 1 egg in a skillet at one time. For such a “great” Mom, you certainly don’t get the concept of treating siblings (step or blood) the same. And while we’re on the subject of caring mothers…are you so irresponsible (or stupid) that you don’t know that smoke is a MAJOR irritant for anyone who is asthma-prone?? If your kid is so suseptible to breathing problems, why was he working in a smoke-filled environment w/o the benefit of a mask? Doesn’t he have an inhaler to ward off an attack? When he had his episode, why didn’t you load him in the Beemer and drive him to the hospital yourself? That would have saved a lot on that $25k hospital bill, don’t ya think? I think the show is a soppy reality (lol) family of elitist wankers who can’t live in the real world.
I thought all insurance now had to cover pre-existing conditions in minors. So why the big bills?
first of all no one can get mad at todds children. if their mom or grandparents want to buy them things that is perfectly fine. they didn’t ask to be in this position. if laura cant afford to buy her kids anything thats her problem she should have chosen a better man to father all her damn kids. good for todds kids at least they have somewhere else to go instead of having to always see THEIR father sacrifice things for laura and her FIVE kids. he needs to get rid of her ass and find a woman with less baggage. her kids don’t appreciate him.
I lived all of these before the economy went to —- its truly reality, mine did not turn out well either,but if someone else has I’m happy 4 them.
I would also question this family being eligible for food stamps while they are filming a tv show, and getting paid for it. Sounds like they are scamming to me. Todd is a loud obnoxious bore, his wife is a door mat. And enough with the crying, Laura. She sobs all the time while trying to speak, and all I can hear is squeaking. Three of the kids are overweight, and not by 10 pounds, and so is Todd, so they must have plenty to eat.Come to my house, and see what REAL downsizing is. They lived beyond their means, never saved and filed bankruptcy twice. And now are paying $1600.00 a month rent? That’s crazy!!! I feel sorry for all the folks who have scrimped and saved all their lives just to pay for a simple frame house and put food on the table and clothe and send their kids to school. Certainly not for people of privelidge that are scamming the system. Moral of the story? Wreckless spending will catch up with you!
I don’t know why there is a show like this on tv, but they should not be complaining. The Duggars have 19 kids and are making it fine. Apparently the Todd’s are just bad at budgeting money & should take financial advice from Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar.
My name is Beth Laczkowski Douhit and I have been recently diagnosed with MS. I would like to thank the series and the family. If it was not for this show, I still may not have a diagnosis. While watching, I noticed many similarities of my symptoms with Laura’s illness and went to my doctor and asked to be checked for MS. This diagnosis has saved my life!
I am very grateful for the insight! I do not know what the future holds, but I am never alone.
Thank you and God bless.
i like the show even tho they are really not giving up alot the kids have there own cars it seems that the kids are just spoiled
I have been watching to the show and i find it interesting. I hope things get better for them.
This show is the biggest load of crap ever created! People we all know that reality shows are scripted, and we also know that all reality stars get paid…a lot of money I might add…to air their lives. From Kate Plus 8 to ridiculous Jersey Shore, who by the way made $10,000 each per episode their first season, $30,000 each per episode their second season, and so on.
There are so many families out there that know the TRUE meaning of what it is to struggle, including mine. This show and this family’s make-believe story is nothing but a slap in the face to those of us that actually LIVE the reality of having to truly sacrifice to make ends meet for our family.
TAKE THIS FARCE OFF THE AIR!!!
Reading these comments make me think: why everyone who is complaining not pitching out their own reality show. Doing a reality show will get them more money, so hey why not do it. Go get your own reality show or something and stop telling the world on a blog how much money you lost. They are doing something about it, so do something about it too. And peeeeehhhhlease u think they were “rich”, is your brain on vacation????? They were so middle-class. Rich is like owning 11 houses around the world, a yacht and a small private island. u r all boo hooing talking about the deep doodoo u r in (here’s a tip, DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT and stop blogging ur inferior IQ.
I have enjoyed watching this show for two seasons. It is a vivid reminder about the struggles of many Americans in this failing economy.
I think it takes a lot of courage to have cameras come into your household.
It was also a good lesson for many teens. I hope it is back in 2012.
To all those negative comments and especially the military guys complaining that this show is trash and that they get paid thousands for it..get over yourselfs. You can’t judge one family based on the fact that they are on a show that pays them to be on it. First of all they get paid 600 dollars an episode, most people in the military get paid way more so don’t sit there and give us some sob story of how you are struggling more than others. This whole world is struggling, this show is just proof of how hard things can be. It was not our choice for you to into the military, no one put a gut to your head so just sit down with you uneducated self. You went into the military to get paid because your life was going no where. This family has 9 people in it and STILL manages to stay up. The house they have now, they’re renting it for 1200 or so a month. What’s 600 dollars going to do? It doesn’t make sense to me of how many people in this world are so quick to judge when they don’t know the half of it. The only things all you people that have made the rude comments see, is that synopsis up there. You didn’t give this show the time of day, so what makes you think you can judge it by a synopsis of the show? The people who watch this show, really now what’s going on. My family has money but they are still struggling. My whole family was in the military so don’t think anyone is going to single you out just because you are struggling like the rest of us. After the military you will get paid a hefty amount plus benefits? What are these people benefits? they get paid 600 a month and they still have to give their children money. This show is not popular by any means. If you go out there and say “hey im going to watch downsized” i promise you, most people will stare and you like your crazy because they have no idea what you are talking about. So please, educate yourselves and get your facts straight before you start making big assumptions and they get higher priority than you.
wow at all the negitives comments. I love the show. I think some may be jealous maybe? I don’t know.. maybe I shouldn’t say that. we all have issues and who are we to judge each other. So this family got picked up.. so what.
I just want to know, why hasn’t it been on for 3 weeks! its killing me to know about Bailey and her boyfriend!