I've seen so many of these shows, which underscore the seedier side of American lives, but Maury Povich treats his visitors with greater tact and gentleness than any of the others (except, perhaps, Oprah).
Yes, he deals with exactly the same 'Trailer Trash' elements as other shows AND he hosts those bizarre 'Is this person male or female?' shows, yet he also introduces Zoo animals for underprivileged children to meet and learn about.
With great sensitivity, he interviews people whose lives have taken an incredible turn - for example, the brave young man who lost about half his skull and brain when he was shot in his uncle's hardware store.
He also introduces his viewers to people who are living their lives through amazing adversity (I will never forget his programme about Tourette's Syndrome).
Through all of this, Maury treats his guests with the utmost courtesy and seems to wholly empathise with them. Oh, I know he's an old hand in the world of reporting, but other 'chat' show hosts don't use such discretion and consideration.
There are bound to be detractors, but this small corner of England shouts 'Rock On, MoPo!!'
