Reality Telivision

What is reality television?

What is reality television? Reality television is a genre of television programming in which the fortunes of "real life" people (as opposed to actors, or fictional characters) are followed ( http:wikipedia.org/w/wiki.phtml ). How can a viewer trust that the cast are not actors, portraying that the show is unscripted. The suspense of knowing that the cast is not sure what happens next adds to the suspense. Reality television shows captivate it's audiences, often making them whish they were there. What would drive people to want to be stranded on an Island with total strangers, or competing for someone's hand in marriage of whom the never met? Aside from being adventurous, the cast members may just be in search of their "fifteen minutes" of fame which could include numerous amounts of drama. Many people are driven by drama which makes television such a hit.

The first reality show broadcast was the PBS series An American Family, broadcast in the United States in 1973 in twelve parts ( http:wikipedia.org/w/wiki.phtml ). There were several spin offs in several other countries, all with the same concept, and their share of controversy. Modern example of reality television is MTV's "The Real World" ( http:wikipedia.org/w/wiki.phtml ), one of my personal favorites.

There are a wide range of reality television shows today, instead of back in it's early years when it's primary focus was family. "Real World's" focus is the cohabitation of seven strangers, which could bring plenty of turmoil. "American Idol's" focus is finding a new artist for a certain genre, whether it be pop, R&B, country, or neo soul, a fresh face is needed on the scene and they are looking for it. Hidden camera shows such as "Candid Camera" which debuted in 1953, dating shows such as "Love Connection", and the ever so popular "Price is Right" where prizes range from one dollar to a trip around the world. So no matter one's taste or style there is a reality show to fit just about everybody.