The reality of VH1’s Dating Naked might have been hard for some to fathom. For Long Island native Joe Pappas, however, dating in the buff just another start to a vamped-up career – even after that first episode that broadcast him naked to over 800,000 network spectators.
Along with filming VH1’s Dating Naked Wedding and Dating Naked Reunion episode (which airs Thursday, September 18) the 24-year old is an actor, a part-time poet and hip hop artist; Joe’s upcoming single “Sexy Sexy” is being promoted by VH1 to his already huge fan base, proving he is more than just a fleeting flame. Here’s what Joe had to say about Hollywood, dating now and the ups and downs of reality filming.
The Show
First things first: What exactly is the plot of Dating Naked? Or is that a dumb question?
Joey: [The show] was all about trying to find your true love – or hookup – or simply the one night stands. Yes, some cast members did come to the show and actually search for love!
That’s a little bit shocking, in fact….
Joey: Haha, right?
Would you say true love was your intention for being on Dating Naked?
Joey: Honestly, I got to the filming (in Panama and California) having no idea what to expect. I was considering a movie project at the time, then VH1 called asking me to do a new reality show.
So, you were already big into acting before being snagged by VH1?
Yea, I’ve been into acting since my childhood. A few commercials here and there, plus I got to meet a decent amount of actors at a young age.
Ah, the term reality show makes one have to ask.. Is anything about Dating Naked actually real?!
Joey: All of it. From cast members’ reactions to certain stuff on camera, to the 2am push-ups after drinking too much tequila.
Hard to resist the tropical spirits. Was being on a Panamanian island just an off-camera party 24/7?”
Joey: It definitely was at times! Still, there was some peace especially during the day. Only once did I get into an argument [with one of the other cast members]but we have long since forgotten about it.
On A Personal Note
Did you end up meeting anybody special on the show?
Yes. Wee Wee [the first female contestant on the show]and I began dating. I have Dating Naked to thank for that one!
So it was totally worth it! Guess meeting in the nude is a really awesome way to break the ice….
Haha, we just got used to being naked. The only really awkward moment was when I farted in somebody’s face during yoga.
Have you met any truly influential celebrities before or after VH1?
Most celebrities I’ve met, I met as a young kid. I was introduced to Drake several years ago through a beatboxing friend of mine. I mean, Hollywood and L.A. is filled with a lot of cool people, but you also meet a ton of fake ones. It’s hard for me to become starstruck.
