‘The Real’ goes live at Lee Hall

Students gather for the live taping of "The Real."
Photo courtesy of the @famu_1887 instagram page.

Students and faculty filled the seats of FAMU's Lee Hall Wednesday morning for the filming of “The Real” daytime talk show.

The show has been doing a tour of Historically Black Colleges and Universities during Black History Month to discuss why HBCUs are so important to America’s history and its future. It has already made stops at Howard University and Prairie View and made it way to FAMU early Wednesday morning.

Hosts Jeannie Mai, Loni Love, and Adrienne Houghton interacted with Rattlers from their studio in Los Angeles while a few of their crewmembers were here in Tallahassee.

Before taping began, the crew members had students fill in seats in Lee Hall and gave instructions as to what the program would consist of. They informed the student body that they would be having “Girl Chat” topics regarding the latest buzz with Khloe Kardashian, Tristan Thompson and Jordyn Woods.

Three students – Crenel "CJ" Francis, Rochard Morciette and Stefanny Garzon – were selected to participate in games with the hosts in order to win a $1,200 cash prize. With the help of the student body, the three were awarded $400 each.

Their production team went through a few practice runs before going live showing students when to applaud, laugh and stand up and cheer while holding FAMU signs.

Imari Nalls, a senior nursing major, weighed in on the live taping.

"I thought it was cool that they chose FAMU out of all the possible universities. Although I would have much rather they came to Tallahassee, I still think it's great that we got to be a part of their tour. I also wish Tamera Mowry-Housley would have been a part of this show. But overall, it was great," said Nalls.

The event was attended by the university President Larry Robinson, student body Vice President, Robyn Seniors, Mr. and Miss FAMU Myles Millsap and Imani Cooper, the Marching 100 and the mascot, Venom.

Students were encouraged to wear FAMU gear to come ready to showcase their Rattler pride.

Terrell Nelson, a senior  sociology major, shared his opinion on the event.

"I enjoyed the taping. I wish we would have gotten the opportunity to meet them in person, but I'm just glad that we were able to receive national exposure," said Nelson.

Students were given free "The Real" merchandise after filming ended, thanking them for their attendance for the live taping.