Ep 4. Kevin Jonas, Katharine McPhee, Bret Michaels

When I Was 17 is a reality TV show that follows the lives of various celebrities as they recount their experiences and memories of being seventeen years old. In season one, episode four, three well-known figures, Kevin Jonas, Katharine McPhee, and Bret Michaels, share their stories.

Kevin Jonas, one of the Jonas Brothers, talks about his high school experience and how he juggled being a student and a musician. He recalls spending long nights recording music in his basement and playing gigs on the weekends. He also talks about how he balanced his relationship with his girlfriend at the time with his busy schedule. While he admits that it was challenging, he also recognizes how much he learned during those formative years.

Katharine McPhee, the singer and actress, reflects on her days as a competitive ice skater. She describes the intense training regimen that she and her coach followed and how she had to give up other activities in order to focus on her sport. She also talks about the sacrifices that she made in order to pursue her dream of becoming a performer. McPhee acknowledges that her experience as a young athlete helped her develop the discipline and work ethic that allowed her to succeed in other areas of her life.

Bret Michaels, the frontman of the band Poison, shares his memories of growing up in a small town in Pennsylvania. He discusses how he got his start in music, singing in talent shows and local gigs. He also jokes about his high school fashion sense, sporting a mullet and leather jacket like many of his peers. Michaels reflects on the obstacles he faced as an aspiring musician, such as being rejected by record labels and struggling to make ends meet. However, he also remembers the thrill of performing in front of a live audience and the sense of community that he found through his music.

Throughout the episode, the three guests also discuss other aspects of their lives at 17. Kevin Jonas talks about his relationship with his brothers (who were also his bandmates) and how they supported each other through the ups and downs of their music career. Katharine McPhee talks about the role that her parents played in helping her pursue her passions, even when those pursuits seemed unconventional. Bret Michaels talks about his friendship with other local musicians and how they encouraged each other to keep pushing forward.

When I Was 17 season 1 episode 4 provides a glimpse into the lives of three celebrities who, despite their success, faced many of the same challenges and uncertainties as any other teenager. Through their stories, viewers are reminded of the importance of perseverance, hard work, and a strong support system.