Nearly a third of television is now a form of “reality” programming; and although this isn’t a new occurrence by any means now, I am still left with one gaping, unanswered question:
Why would anyone participate in a negatively-styled reality show?
By “negatively-styled,” I’m trying to draw the distinction between shows such as American Idol, which exploits positive talent, and others like Big Brother, which emphasize drama, villains, and hookups. Shows of the latter that immediately come to mind include Kitchen Nightmares, Too Fat For 15, Wife Swap, Intervention, and Hoarders.
I’ve always wondered what the appeal is for those people who actively choose to participate in these programs. It certainly makes for some of the most “dramatic” programming, but what is the logic behind actively signing up and fueling the fire? There is the lure of reformation, sure (Intervention, any one of the weight-loss programs). And for those who might not be able to afford help, it might be a sacrifice for a desired outcome (Hoarders, Kitchen Nightmares). Regardless of the intention, I can’t imagine sticking myself in a program where you don’t know how you will be portrayed. With the web and other forms of recording, you can be sure that the program will never fully disappear.
A few days ago, I came across an interesting article regarding how many people we meet in a lifetime. It boiled down to a story about the author William Least Heat-Moon, who was driving across North Dakota and asked himself “How many people would I meet if I lived to age 90?”
A meeting was defined as “a face-to-face exchange containing a clear, if momentary, recognition” which could range from something as simple as a wave, a greeting or a smile all the way to a life-long friendship.
In Heat-Moon’s case, the total that he came up with was 100,000.
This number must be quite different now, with the advent of the internet, expansion of television/web video, and even shopping or concert-going habits. It’s true that in many of these media, you’re not receiving the feedback or reciprocation Heat-Moon required in his definition of meeting people. However, I believe my inquiry is still valid. Why would anyone put themselves out to not just that 100,000 who we might come across in our lifetime, but an exponentially-higher number of people in general, when the image being portrayed is not of our own choosing, or is altered in some way?
Yes, I’ll be the first to admit that these shows I’ve listed above are some of the programs that consume a substantial portion of my television-watching time. However, as a member of the entertainment industry who has chosen to involve myself in this crazy track where it is not just normal — but required at some level — to put yourself in the public eye, this notion of “altered exposure” is a topic I look forward to exploring, particularly as it relates to control and the role of entrepreneurship for continued success. As it relates to my personal choices, I am actively choosing to watch those who make the decision to embark on the adventure that is “reality” television — and opt for the alternate track.
