Why is reality television so predominant in our popular culture?

There are many reasons for wide interest in reality television. Many of the reality television shows on today are formulated as a sort of game show. For example, shows such as ,Survivor American Idol, and Big Brother involve a prize for the one individual who wins the competition. This element of the game show concept has been popular for decades and still continues to be a very popular element within todays society.

Another reason I believe reality television is popular in today's society is do to the raw footage. Mistakes are made, people's real personalities come out, and we feel like we truly know these individuals compared to the actors and actresses portraying characters. Though many shows bring out the worst in individuals and perhaps these contestants/reality stars are "acting" in the audience's mind this appearance is the reality of who these individuals are.

What is even more encouraging or intriguing to the audience is that anyone be a reality t.v. star! Unlike actors and actresses who work hard to make it and the thousands upon thousands who don't make it, in reality television any average Joe can become an instant celebrity. This alone captivates the audience and draws in millions of views.

The storyline is interesting. For example some reality television series use the idea of throwing complete strangers into a house for a certain amount of time. Others drop off a number of contestants on a deserted island to fend for themselves. A family who has been through a considerable amount of pain and turmoil go away on vacation while a team of expert builders either repairs their existing home or builds them a completely new one within a week! Some shows are so absurd we can not help but to be sucked in, such as shows about rich kids who are trying to make it, or who must have an over the top sweet sixteen birthday party. The storylines are endless and this is why reality television is popular, anything can be a reality television show.

The number one reason I believe reality television is prevalent today is because this is a window into another person's life. It is very interesting to compare ourselves to this particular person. How do we measure up to these "characters" are we better off, similar, or worse? Usually to most we are either similar or better, due to the network choosing colorful individuals to play a part in these shows. In some way we all want to feel our lives are normal and it is comforting to know that there are others going through similar circumstances and if they can prevail so can we.