Why is reality TV so popular for both programme makers and TV viewers?
Hill (2005) states that the popularity of reality TV can be attributed to the fact that they are a “quick fix solution to economic problems” and the “deregulation and marketisation of media industries”. It was a quick way for networks to make money and the regulations of what could be shown on TV was changed. In regards to the popularity among viewers, I think can be attributed to the relatability of the people on these shows. The average Joe can dream of one day being a part of the show and usually the non-professional actors on these shows display ‘everyday’ qualities. Meaning, usually when we watch game shows such as Survivor or The Biggest Loser, we are often told about the contestants life outside the game, for example their occupation and a little about their family. I think all these things add to the ‘relatability factor’ of the shows.
References:
Hill, A. (2005) The rise of reality TV. In A. Hill, Reality TV: Audiences and Popular Factual Television. (pp. 15 – 40). Oxon: Routledge.
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