Mary Ellis Bunim, co-creator of The Real World died Saturday in Burbank after a long battle with breast cancer.
Like most of my generation, I grew up on The Real World. It may seem stupid to say this but The Real World changed my views on a lot of things. I grew up in a small Midwestern town with a predominant caucasian population. My parents were rather close minded as far as race and sexuality were concerned. If it had not been for my exposure to other races, cultures and sexuality by watching The Real World, I cannot say what I would be like today. The Real World made me see that there were other people out there and it taught me to be accepting of them. I think that is a true testament to Mary Ellis Bunim's vision. My condolences to her family and friends. I will always remember her because of the effect The Real World has had on my life.