By RODNEY HO/rho@ajc.com, originally posted Dec. 11, 2014
Most networks will promote their new shows weeks, if not months in advance. They'll do the basics: social media, a website, trailer/teaser videos, et. al.
Then there's the case of Atlanta-based reality show "Sorority Sisters" on VH1, which I discovered was shooting locally over the summer. I had but the sketchiest of info and VH1 declined to comment at the time.
Then I forgot about it. Today, I received this press release about the show, which is set to debut on Monday. In other words, the first time VH1 publicity is mentioning the show in a public way is four days before the debut. Four days!
"Sorority Sisters" follows the lives of women from four different sororities. Since these 'sorors' are pledges for life, they are expected to continue their community work long after graduation. From long-awaited reunions, to managing the men in their lives, for these line sisters, it's homecoming all across the ATL. These ladies have a lot at stake – their aspirations, reputations, livelihoods, friendships, and families – and the legacies of their sororities. "Sorority Sisters" premieres December 15 at 9PM on VH1.
What's even more interesting is what is not included with the press release. There is no cast listing. There are no photos or video. There is no trailer on YouTube. There is no Twitter handle for the show, no Facebook page, no Instagram page, not even a page set aside as of today on VH1's website. Of course, all this may change soon but this is the closest to a "stealth" debut of a show if I've ever seen one.
Restaurants do "soft" openings but TV shows?
UPDATE: Dec. 12: VH1 did release two short trailers on its VH1 YouTube page, one 15 seconds, one 30 seconds. It has conflict written all over it:
I try to attach a photo to any story I write but I'm kind of stumped what I could include here as an illustration besides the VH1 logo. I will add more details as I get them but right now, I'm befuddled.
Earlier, Mona Scott Young ("Love and Hip Hop") was attached but not anymore.
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