Reality shows have become the comeback vehicle, the extra income for a certain level of actor (B or fading).
Yet, typically that's not acknowledged. Everyone involved acts like the shows are a gift to fans, letting them in to a private life we yearn to know more about.
Not "Harry Loves Lisa" (TV Land, 10 tonight). In the show, starring acting couple Harry Hamlin and Lisa Rinna, they make it clear right away that they need work. Hamlin put his career aside, while Rinna's star was rising, to raise their two lovely little girls. But now, at (a really good-looking) 58, he's ready to return to a regular gig. Indeed, they both need a second chance.
That theme provides the show's drama, but also makes it a little sad. Yet, it's not a complete bummer. As suggested by the name, "Harry Loves Lisa" wants to give us a Ricky and Lucy vibe -- he's the thoughtful intellectual, she's the wacky live wire. Rinna is no Lucille Ball, but she's mouthy in a delightfully earnest way. Hamlin indeed plays the straight man, although in the first episode, he gets a chance to do standup comedy.
What's clear is that Harry and Lisa love and support each other. And that's probably what will sustain them as they try to find a way back to regular gigs. Lisa's OK, but I would looove to see Harry on a series again. Why can't he be the DA on the new L.A.-based "Law & Order?"
In fact, Happiness loves Harry so much, we are giving away a copy of his memoir "Full Frontal Nudity." Did you know the man graduated from Yale and that his father was a rocket scientist? You'll learn even more if you get the book.
Just send an email with the name of the sex symbol Harry has a child with in the subject line to adrienne.johnson@newsobserver.com
Assistant Features Editor Adrienne Johnson Martin would like to have her life turned into an animated cartoon. 
