‘Teen Mom’ alum Amber Portwood released from prison four years early, faces uncertain future
We remember years ago documenting what was one of the sadder situations out there in reality TV, and that was the case of “Teen Mom” star Amber Portwood. This was a clearly troubled woman who agreed to go on MTV presumably so that she could have a better life for her daughter Leah, but what ended up happening in the end was a chain of events that led to a police investigation, and then ultimately drug use and a five-year prison sentence in an Indiana facility.
But, the news breaking today is that Portwood is being release just a little over a year into her sentence, and emerged from the prison today sporting a t-shirt suggesting that she has finally conquered some of the addiction problems that she has suffered the past few years. While it’s to be seen if that is really true or not, it is at least a step showing that she is ready for a normal life again.
We are not here to bury MTV, since these are women who are responsible for their own actions, but at the same time, it is worth nothing that both the original “Teen Mom” and “Teen Mom 2” had cast members (whether it be Amber or Janelle Evans) who have had an extensive history of dust-ups with the law. Could they do a better job trying to provide these young women with mentoring or emotional support? You have to remember that these are women who are put into a scary situation at an early age, and are going from desperation to instant fame and a decent paycheck. This can all be a little overwhelming, especially when there is an expectation placed on you as a TV star to be anything other than “boring” if you want to be around in the long-term.
The reason MTV continues to buy into the “Teen Mom” franchise is simply because it turns a nice profit. This is one of their highest-rated shows, and it also caters well to their audience. Were it any other way, maybe they would be questioning more of what they are broadcasting. but as it is, there is no need to slow anything down.
What do you think about Amber’s release: Are you happy for her, and do you think that she is actually going to be able to stay clean in the months ahead? Be sure to share below, and click here if you are interested in reading some more news from the “Teen Mom” franchise.
Photo: MTV