Exclusive: NBC's "The Marriage Ref" to Include First Gay Couple

Do you remember how I told you a some time ago that while NBC's The Marriage Ref didn't yet have any gay couples participating, they were certainly open it? Well, I just got some exclusive AfterElton.com scoop that says next week's episode, which was already looking pretty gay thanks to the presence of Kathy Griffin and Nathan Lane, is going to get really gay when the Jerry Seinfeld-produced program welcomes its first gay couple.

Meet Michael Wigh and David Salinero from Tampa, FL. 

David and Michael 

First some background. The guys have been together for six and a half years. David works at Price Waterhouse Cooper as a Managing Editor in their Knowedge Services Organization while Michael is a Corporate Trainer at Progressive Insurance.

So what is the issue threatening to come between Michael and David? Infidelity? That second house in Palm Springs they bought at the peak of the housing market? Garlic breath?

Actually, it's a woman. And her name is ... Betty Boop.

Yep, a cartoon character is what these fellows are fighting over. Actually, it's a lifesize Betty Boop figurine that David is keeping in the kitchen over Michael's common sense good taste wishes. You know, I'm just going to go ahead and rule in Michael's favor now. I don't have anything against Ms. Boop, but a lifesize one in the kitchen? Um, no.

On the other hand, I have to admit I'm curious to see what Ms. Griffin and Mr. Lane will have to say on the matter. (Tracy Morgan is also a judge, but, yeah, I'm not interested in what he has to say. About anything.)

I have to admit this is actually interesting enough to get me to watch. If you're interested as well, the episode airs next Thursday on NBC at 10pm ET/PT.