I am a fan of Bravo TV’s Work Out. Currently in its second season, the show deals intelligently and openly with positive gay and lesbian role models. Although I’m sort of bewildered and titillated at the same time by Jackie’s new-found desire to casually date both Tiffany and Rebecca after breaking off her dysfunctional relationship with Latin spitfire, Mimi, to me, the bigger story this season happens to be the death of trainer, Doug Blasdell.

I realize that Jackie didn’t want to “exploit” Doug’s death, but I think the series needs to continue to address it. (Note: Blasdell, despite previous reports died of renal failure at the age of 44.)

This week’s episode was touching. I really enjoy the way the series showcased Doug’s love for his former partner, Cheo, who was undergoing dialysis at the time Doug took ill. Both men still showed such love and respect for each other. It was encouraging and heart-wrenching at the same time. The show also touched upon the fact that Doug lost his mother, father and sister young. He prophetically mentioned that he didn’t expect to live to see another birthday during a celebration.

I was devastated by the end of the episode. I was in tears, perhaps that’s because I already know the ending, as I’m sure most of you do. The other trainers and Jackie seemed to be in shock. Perhaps, as the drama unfolds – I mean she only announced his illness and mentioned that he’s supposed to be on the mend – we might see more of a reaction.

I just wonder…how’s Cheo doing now? Did they get to say a proper good-bye? Will Doug’s Sky Lab client be able to progress without him? How about his other clients? Is Brian able to cope since he and Doug were so close, etc.?

Hopefully, Work Out can strike the balance of not exploiting Doug’s death while providing closure for the audience. They should not just gloss over the details. Doug’s life deserved more than that.

Besides, I think the series shines when it focuses on the inspiring and motivating aspects of the trainers' lives and not just the sex that takes place inside (and out) of the gym.

But that’s just me. Tell me what you think!