What keeps viewers glued to terrible TV shows? The hosts dive into the mind-bending allure of binge-watching, even when the storylines derail. They reminisce about the outrageous 'Married by America' and its chaotic dating antics. The discussion also covers the cultural impact of 'Teen Mom 2' and the monetization of motherhood. They explore scripted dramas and their soap opera-like drama, as well as LGBTQ+ representation in shows like 'Boy Meets Boy.' Perfect for anyone who's ever cringed and laughed through a guilty pleasure!
Bingeability of 'terrible' shows arises from viewers' curiosity about absurd narratives, compelling them to watch until the end despite quality concerns.
Emotional investment in reality TV, like 'Teen Mom 2', allows audiences to reflect on personal choices and societal pressures through individual story arcs.
Deep dives
The Allure of Bad TV Shows
Certain TV shows manage to captivate audiences even when they don't meet traditional standards of quality. Watching shows like 'Married by America' exemplifies this phenomenon, where viewers find themselves compelled to see how absurdities unfold, despite recognizing the content's low class. The human appetite for 'train wreck' entertainment can often outweigh concerns about quality, resulting in a commitment to watch until the bitter end. This blend of curiosity and the need for entertainment can create an irresistible draw, regardless of how ludicrous the premise may be.
Investment in Reality Television Narratives
Shows such as 'Teen Mom 2' highlight viewers' emotional investments in the lives of reality TV personalities as they navigate complex challenges. The program demonstrates how individual story arcs allow audiences to become connected and engaged with the cast members over time. Many viewers ponder their own life choices while watching these women evolve, illustrating the impact of reality TV on personal perspectives. This investment often leads to a deeper examination of societal norms and the pressures young parents face today.
The Chaos of Scripted Drama
Scripted series like 'Designated Survivor' represent the chaotic nature of televised storytelling, often leading to disjointed narratives due to their revolving doors of writers and plot directions. Viewers may continue watching such shows out of sheer curiosity to see how various storylines unfold, despite recognizing the lack of cohesion. The experience becomes a mix of intrigue and confusion, as multiple genres intersect within a single show. This phenomenon raises questions on audience engagement with content that doesn't necessarily meet quality expectations but instead develops a compelling unpredictability.
What is it about a show that turns you into a bitter-ender, that keeps you dutifully watching every last episode, long after the train has jumped the tracks? Even when you know it's not good, but, for you anyway, it's just good enough to muddle through, all the way to the finale? Today, we're revisiting our conversation about terrible but bingeable TV shows