Reality television

The Loud Family 1973

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Duncan Laurence with the 2019 Eurovision Trophy (cropped)

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One Direction at the Logies Awards 2012

Reality television is a genre of television programming that documents purportedly unscripted real-life situations, often starring unknown individuals rather than professional actors. Reality television shows tend to focus on drama, personal conflict, and entertainment rather than educating viewers. The genre has various sub-genres, including documentary-style reality TV, competition-based reality TV, dating shows, and reality sitcoms, among others.

History

The origins of reality television can be traced back to the late 1940s and early 1950s, with shows like Candid Camera, which was first aired in 1948. However, the genre did not gain significant popularity until the late 1990s and early 2000s with the emergence of shows like Survivor and Big Brother. These shows introduced the concept of competition and viewer voting, significantly influencing the development of the genre.

Types of Reality TV

Documentary-Style

This sub-genre focuses on real-life situations and often features a narrative voice-over. Examples include The Real World and Keeping Up with the Kardashians.

Competition-Based

In these shows, participants compete in specific challenges to win prizes or money. Survivor and The Amazing Race are notable examples.

Dating Shows

Dating shows involve single participants trying to find love or relationships. The Bachelor and Love Island are popular examples.

Reality Sitcoms

These are scripted shows that are presented in a reality format, often featuring celebrities in exaggerated versions of their real lives. The Osbournes was a pioneer in this sub-genre.

Criticism and Impact

Reality television has been criticized for blurring the lines between reality and scripted entertainment. Critics argue that many shows are heavily edited and manipulated to create more dramatic narratives. Despite this, reality TV has had a significant impact on popular culture, influencing public perceptions of celebrity, personal success, and social behavior.

Influence on Society

Reality TV has influenced societal norms and expectations, particularly in terms of celebrity culture and the definition of success. It has also been credited with bringing diverse stories and backgrounds to the forefront of popular media, though not without controversy regarding representation and exploitation.

Future of Reality TV

The future of reality television seems secure, with streaming platforms and traditional networks continuously developing new content to meet viewer demand. The genre's ability to evolve and adapt to new trends and technologies suggests that it will remain a staple of entertainment for years to come.