INTERVIEW: Mike Ruggles, super-manny, SUPERNANNY

Supernanny? Not this time! It's Super-Manny to Mr. Media's Rescue!

The world’s first Super-Manny, Mike Ruggles, meets his match with a chaotic family of six from Colorado, on ABC’s “Supernanny,” when “Super-Manny Special: Griswold Family” airs on Friday, Dec. 4 @ 8 p.m. on ABC.

Ruggles is a warm Chicagoan with over 17 years’ experience as a teacher and developmental therapist for children. He focuses on the specific challenges presented by this family. After an observation period, he kicks the parents out of the house and gives the kids a voice by using role-playing techniques to determine some of the root problems, as the parents watch from a monitor. In the Griswolds’ case, this provides a tearful comeuppance for Mom and Dad as Joe confesses his fear of his father and imitates his dad’s rages. In addition, Mike has some tough talk for Roberta about the continued effect of her negativity on the family and her marriage -- if things continue down this path, failure is assured.

Super-Manny also creates an unforgettable interventional moment with Brianna, forcing her to confront the potential consequences of alcohol abuse by meeting survivors of car accidents that involved drinking and driving. Young Lauren weeps as Mike leaves the house later, in fear that her family will revert to their old habits. But Super-Manny has some powerful and innovative ways to break through to everyone including taking the whole family on a camping trip.

It’s a Griswold Family Vacation unlike any other, and it will change their lives.