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Check Out of This 'Rehab'

VH1 show exploits fame junkies looking to kick addictions

By Lucas Laursen, Newser Staff

Posted Jan 11, 2008 6:19 PM CST

(Newser) – VH1 has pulled off a difficult feat—it's brought reality TV to new depths of depravity, writes Mark Perigard of the Boston Herald. The network's new "Celebrity Rehab," which follows the struggles of B- and C-list celebs as they try to kick their varous addictions, is "heartless, exploitive and downright toxic," Perigard writes.

Especially revolting is the show's exploitation of former "Taxi" star Jeff Conaway, whose drug abuse has aged him well beyond his 57 years. The camera catches his delirium and his suicidal vents, and promos for the show actually tease to his next breakdown. While some shows tread the line of voyeurism with skill, this one "will leave you feeling dirty."

[Images (4)]

[Videos (2)]

Dr. Drew Pinsky, of the KROQ and MTV shows "Love Line," is the doctor shepherding VH1's celebs through rehab in "Celebrity Rehab." (Getty Images)

Dr Drew Pinsky, right, talks with his celebrity rehabbers. (VH1)

Joanie Laurer, aka pro wrestling's "Chyna," is appearing in VH1's 2008 show "Celebrity Rehab." (Getty Images)

(Left to right) Actors Judd Hirsch, Danny DeVito, Carol Kane and Jeff Conaway arrive at the 5th Annual TV Land Awards, Saturday, April 14, 2007 in Santa Monica, Calif. (AP Photo/Gus Ruelas) (Associated Press)

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Check Out of This 'Rehab'