I don't disagree with that sentiment. I do not watch the show though others in my household do. I thought that since part of the reason that the spoof worked was that Laura was being everything she isn't in real life, that such a comparison added to the effect. I think most people know she adores her husband and is the farthest thing from a "desperate housewife" that we know of.
As for your other sentiment, I watched two episodes of "Law and Order" with my parents over the weekend and during the second one my dad asked "What gory show are we watching now?" I suggested changing the channel.
What bothered me was that little bit of free advertisement. I have such scorn for the entertainment establishment.
I, like you dad, ask that same question nightly as I scan through the 100 plus channels. Condensed to probably 5 watchable programs.