Culture Study Podcast The Complicated Future of Reality TV
Aug 28, 2024
Hollywood correspondent Natalie Jarvey dives into the intricate world of reality TV, unraveling its ethics and labor issues. She discusses the emotional toll on participants, the blurred lines between reality and performance, and the impact of social media on contestants branded as villains. Jarvey also highlights the need for better support systems for reality stars and explores why these melodramas continue to captivate audiences. Plus, she offers insights on the evolution of beauty standards in shows like 'The Bachelor' and the ongoing unionization efforts.
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Reality TV Drivers
- Reality TV's popularity and cost-effectiveness drive its production, not just writer strikes.
- The 2007 writers' strike amplified existing shows like 'Celebrity Apprentice', not birthed the genre.
Early Reality TV
- "Cops", a show from the 1988 writers' strike, gained popularity by showcasing police work.
- Early 2000s saw a reality TV boom with shows like "Survivor" and "Big Brother", predating the 2007 strike.
Reality TV Labor
- Reality TV participants often gain "exposure" instead of proper wages, similar to online writers.
- Unionization efforts exist for reality TV crews and participants, but face studio resistance and logistical challenges.