The Assignment with Audie Cornish cover image

The Assignment with Audie Cornish

Why We Can’t Look Away From Reality TV

Jul 11, 2024
Audie Cornish chats with Pulitzer Prize winner Emily Nussbaum about the rise and impact of reality TV. They discuss the evolution, manipulation, and dynamics of reality shows, including the influence of shows like The Apprentice on politics. Nussbaum sheds light on the world of reality television and its controversial nature.
31:55

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Reality TV showcases real emotions and unscripted reactions, fostering authenticity.
  • Reality TV's impact extends beyond entertainment, influencing public perceptions and political outcomes.

Deep dives

Evolution of Reality TV Shows

Reality TV shows have evolved over time from audience participation to more complex, emotionally revealing scenarios. The early Queen for a Day show exemplified how vulnerable everyday people were put in emotionally charged situations to win audience sympathy. These shows faced criticism for exploiting personal struggles and private moments for public consumption, yet their popularity continued to grow.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode