Rob and Big - The Behind the Scenes Interview

MTV doesn't show music videos any more, they make tv shows that have music in them. It's sorta genius except for the fact that we loved some of those videos, and it helped us learn what bands we should go out and, you know, support.

Whatevs, MTV and VH-1 keep on pumping out some quality reality-based programs that you might not like but we freaking love. The Real World, Charm School, and Rob and Big have been getting much play on tvs lately which is why we were very excited to realize that LA blogger/actor/producer Shane Nickerson has been the co-EP of Rob and Big, which meant we could ask him all the questions that only an MTV-nerd would ask about our favorite show featuring a big huge black dude who is the bodyguard and best friend of a little white pro skater, and their adventures in LA.

The questions started, of course, on the logistics of the production being allowed to add a miniature pony to the cast - and to the household.

LAist: Without giving away the location of Rob & Big's house or any spoilers of any upcoming episodes, did you guys run into any zoning issues with having a barnyard animal in the back yard?

Shane Nickerson: Not that I know of. The horse has adapted really well to life in the Hollywood Hills, and of course, the guys go out of their way to make sure his home is comfortable and kickass. There's an equestrian community near their house, so Mini is never too far from some horse on horse quality time.

We dont remember any of the gossip blogs or newspapers talking about neighbors complaining about the sound or smell of the mini horse - was it a quiet animal?

You'd be surprised at how unimposing a mini-horse can be! Actually, I think they're much less noisy and stinky than your average dog. Horses don't bark or howl or crap on the neighbors lawn. The worst you'll get from a mini-horse is a whinny and some grassy poo nuggets.

Speaking of... did you guys ever find the cause of the odor coming from the bulldog's "backdoor"?

Yeah. Bad anal gland. Let me tell you something, there are few smells in the universe worse than the disgusting fluid that secretes out of a dog's anal gland. Foul, foul stuff. They've got a handle on it now though. Now Meaty just has a never-ending case of death farts.

Last season you guys let 415 lb Big get on a skateboard and drop into a backyard half pipe. He immediately fell on his back. Are you people insane?

Probably. It's still one of my favorite moments from the first season. He just got up there and went for it. Fearless.

Why doesn't Rob fire his lazy ass assistant?

Drama? No way! Drama's back this season in a bigger way. I'm sure Rob has probably considered it at times, but come on, it's his cousin! He's part of the crew. I guess you never know what could happen though...