Journey Through Time 35. Why We’re Obsessed With The Traitors: The History of Reality TV (Ep 1)
Oct 7, 2025
David shares his thrilling experience on Celebrity Traitors. The hosts trace reality TV's roots back to WWII, revealing its profound impact on society. They delve into how this genre reshapes celebrity culture and viewer intimacy. Candid Camera's innovative techniques are explored, showcasing the blend of humor and authenticity. The conversation highlights the monumental significance of An American Family, the first landmark in reality TV, while grappling with the ethical dilemmas of documenting real lives.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Authenticity From Being Caught Unaware
- Reality TV emerged from radio and early TV experiments like Alan Funt's Candid Microphone/Candid Camera.
- Authenticity hinges on catching people unawares, a core thread through the genre's history.
Producer Turns Participant Out Of Curiosity
- David Olusoga accepted Celebrity Traitors partly out of curiosity and TV-producing background.
- He viewed it as a unique show worth trying despite usually declining reality TV offers.
Study Reality TV As Cultural History
- Recognize reality TV as a cultural force, not just entertainment.
- Study its history to understand how formats shape society and celebrity.
