I am not a fan of reality television for about a million reasons. So as not to offend those that enjoy it, I’ll say my biggest complaint is that the shows have come to dominate TV and have replaced scripted programs. And as a writer and a traditionalist, I prefer a nice sitcom and drama to watching shows about obstreperous children being corrected by British women, or theoretically rational adults creating tribes. So you can imagine how upset I was to find myself watching a clip from “Britain’s Got Talent” and not only not hating it, but tearing up. With moderate over-the-eye spillage. Which is not the same thing as crying, because it only affected my eyes. Just wanted to clear that up.

It starts out with the typically unflattering shots the “American Idol,” “X Factor,” and “Got Talent” producers love to use. A homely woman eating. Then giving an interview where she comes across as dowdy and out-of-touch. Then 47-year-old Susan Boyle walks out onto the stage, and gives an awkward interview with the judges. Simon Cowell asks her several questions in that persistent manner of his which demonstrates that – while he’s technically being polite – he’s trying to goad or otherwise embarrass Susan.

Everyone braces for her to start singing, just imagining how horrible and awkward it’s going to be. And then she does this:

And then I cried. I freaking hate reality T.V. They really amp it up too, with the inspirational music. I can’t help but root for the underdog. Simon was right – everyone in the audience clearly had it out for her, and it was obvious they were all ready for a good laugh. Dlisted notes that Susan hasn’t sung in the two years since her mother died and she’s never been kissed. And she clearly has no idea how gifted she is, as she seems genuinely unaware of her talent. To see someone give such a spectacular performance… it almost makes me consider tuning in again. I said almost.