reality actors

People who are making a living in the reality TV industry can hardly retain the argument thats we see ourselves in them. The amount of Americans who can say they have starred in a reality TV show, make a very slim amount of the population. It would be very hard for the common man to say that he frequents celebrity talk shows, has cameras follow him around his home, or has millions of people watch his private life? When all is said and done people who put themselves on multiple talk shows become a breed apart from the rest of us.

Professionals?

I don't think there are professional RTV stars. If someone appears on more than one tv show i just think its because the producers saw that a lot of people watched the show and followed the star. If they star that person in their show hoping to attract viewers who might watch the show because they have seen the person in a different show and are curious as to what role they are going to play in the new show. I'm sure they have more experience but i don't think it makes them a professional. There are so many different types of reality tv shows that they most likely wont even reappear on a similar show. I think it depends on how you view reality tv show and whether you think its scripted or unscripted. If it's unscripted wouldn't it mean the star couldn't be a professional because they dont know whats going to happen?

Professionals?

I don't think there is such a thing as a professional reality T.V star. A profession is something that requires skill, and there is no actual skill in being a reality star. Granted, some stars are bigger than others, but they don't possess anything that sets them aside. They just have a bigger fan base that will help prolongate their stints on television. You can't call someone a professional for being themselves in front of a camera; that doesn't require any skill.

Professional RTV Stars

I believe that there is such thing as a professional RTV star. There are many RTV stars out there that apperar on different reality shows mostly for the money and fame that they get out of it. Like on the Real World Challenges many of those reality stars appear on numerous challenges just to earn as much money as they. Others on the show say they miss hanging out with their fellow cast members since some don't really see each other that often outside of the show. I think that other RTV stars who do a lot of reality stuff because they got use to being in front of the camera. Some stars think of it as their way of of life.

Why change if it works?

I don't necessarily feel using the term "Professional" is the correct way to describe what is being discussed here. I feel the better way to describe what holly wood is doing is to see the big picture... If something works, why would you change? If a reality TV actor/character does well and brings in the "BIG BUCKS", I don't see a big "WHY NOT?" in trying to keep the viewers/their money, by adding little twists to the show or character. If they already have a viewing fan of x amount of people, why not utilize what you already have instead of taking a step backwards and setting up a whole new show with new characters. Also, there is not necessarily a "IS THIS FAIR" question to ask because in reality, who cares. Even if you are an actor, I don't think you would be trying to get a job as a REALITY TV artist. If you get the job, awesome, if not, don't be disheartened, there is something better waiting for you. :)

Repeat Offenders

I don't think there is such a thing as "professional" reality tv star, but some definitely provide more entertainment than others. One show / person in particular that comes to mind when I think of repeat offenders is the whole Laguna Beach / The Hills craze. One month I was watching an episode of Laguna Beach because Lauren Conrad is incredibly good looking and then all of a sudden not too long later there she was on her own new show called The Hills. While nobody may have known this girl before Laguna Beach, they definitely knew about her before the premier of The Hills.

Professionals

I think that there are definitely "Professional" reality tv stars. For example on the show THe Bad Girls Club, a girl known as natalie has shown up in multiple seasons of the show after her season had aired. Also many dating shows have run-off shows with the person that wasn't chosen. For example, in the show called the Flavor of Love a contestant known as New York wasn't chosen by Flavor Flave, so VH1 gave her a dating show of her own to find "true love". I think is depends on the type of show to say that these people affect the "realness" of the show. I don't this this is either fair or unfair. If certain people brong higher rating to a show then the network would obviously want to bring them to other shows to make those ratings higher as well.

enjoying shows because you can relate

There are definitely certain shows that people watch because they can relate to them in some way shape or form. Those shows like "Hoarders" and the addicted to something shows, those shows are serious and people get a glimpse of how others respond to something like that. Shows like Keeping up with Kardashians is not a show that all people can relate to in the big sense of it but in the little sense of family, and how they are close together as a family and the way they act with each other, that can be related to. Many people enjoy watching something that they can see themselves doing or can picture themselves in because it's easier to understand in a way. You can compare your problems with theirs.

Professional Reality Star

I don't know if there is such a thing as a "professional" reality star but there is definitely such a thing as a trained and very good reality star. They take people from certain reality shows and give them their own show all the time. New York from Flavor of Love got her own show. They are giving Snooki her own show. They take the most entertaining people on shows and let them have their own so they can continue to be amusing the community.

Repeat offenders

Yes, I think there definitely is repeat offenders, but I do not think that they can be classified as professional actors or actresses. I annoys me how the same players get asked to come back for a second chance on shows. Like in survivor, multiple players gets asked to come back. I think it dumb. They got their chance and already got to experience the show. They are taking up someone else's spot thats never experienced the show. This also happened in the Amazing Race. There are so many other people who want to get a chance to run the race, but they decide to invite people back that have already ran it and lost!

RTV Stars...Repeat offenders

I think in the beginning these stars are just real people and as they get on camera they start to act and not be themselves. Then other producers like their personality and book them for other shows. Now does this make them a professional reality tv star. I think if you have been on two shows you pretty much become professional at the whole reality tv seen. There is many RTV MTV stars that host other shows on MTV. I guess this makes them a little more professional. But what is professional defined as in this question? Wiki say A professional is a member of a vocation founded upon specialised educational training. Do you think all these stars had educational training to do their job...to be on jersey shore..NO....to be on The bachelor..NO.so in conclusion i dont think any are professional!

Professional RTV Stars

Yes, I definitely do think there is such thing as a professional RTV actor. Those who love the attention and want to become big in hollywood try to land as many reality TV shows as possible, and play up their role to whatever they think will make them famous. The cast on Jersey Shore is now on their third season, and all of the cast sure know how to act the way to have to to maintain their popularity. 'Professional' reality TV stars do take away some of the 'real' in the show, but people watch them regardless.

Reality temporary "stars"

On television, there are plenty of shows where a "reality television" aspect can be assessed... Most times, reality television shows introduce characters who have never appeared on television before. Consequentially, with the characters on the show not having any reputation as actors or anything of the like, it makes the action more believable. However, i do not think there is such a thing as a "professional RTV star." Anyone could jump on the set of "Jersey Shore" or "Survivor" and provide the world with entertainment.

Acting Real

The people on RTV shows are "real" people. They are chosen to be on the show because they have the ability to make it entertaining and create a desire for people to watch it. The people are chosen for their behavior and their personalities. It wouldn't be fun to watch Jersey Shore if there was no drama or fighting. It is because of the personalities clashing on the show that we watch it. At the same time though, the characters are playing things up and acting in a sense because they are creating drama and an interesest in the show. I dont think that they are considered professional actors because they are on an RTV show. The majority of time, if they do appear on another show, it is an RTV show and they are there because of thier personality.

All they know is how to act...act "real"?

Let's think about this phenomenon for a moment. People go and star on one of these shows like "The Real World." They get a taste of the money and the free ranging lifestyle of playing yourself for the camera. You get to take every one of your emotions, every little aspect of your life, and blow it out of proportion. As a matter of fact, the producers want you to blow every situation up and out of proportion. They will place you in a situation where you start to act not like your real self, but the self you put on for the world. The self that is being paid to be right there, for the sake of being film. The self knows this, it knows that your being paid to "act" like youself in front of this camera. As a matter of fact that's how you are surviving, "acting real". Now what happens when the show is over, and the money flow isn't coming in, and your kicked out of your "Real World Crib". Then what? what's the easiest way for you to survive. How were you just doing it? By acting for the commercial world out there. So what do you do, try and sign up for the next biggest show with the cash flow, and ability to "win big" this time around so maybe you won't end up on another show later. But what happens to these people? Its like those in prison for too long...institutionalized. But these men and women, are institutionalized by their own aspect of reality, the TV reality, the reality TV. Having a camera always in your face reality. The camera beomces your reality, and it becomes how you define yourself in relation to the world. You get stuck, and all you know is how to act, act "real" for the camera. In all reality its simply drama. And we find these people "real", hah they're lifestyle is a product of corporate america, materialism at its best.

A new breed of actor: Professional Reality Star

How many spin offs did "New York," from the "Flavor of Love" reality series, star in? 5, maybe 6 shows, before we finally got enough of her. However she isn't the only one with multiple reality shows under her belt. There's a sort of trend happening in reality tv that has popular reality characters crossing onto various other reality series'. But coining these recurring RTV personalities "actors", considering they're supposed to be "real" people, just wouldn't be right. Therefore, it would only be fitting that characters like "New York" or Mike "the Miz" Mizanin, be officially titled and classified as "Professional Reality Stars." A new hybrid of TV star that isn't quite actor and isn't, technically, your ordinary joe. So I guess, not every reality show's cast is comprised of "real" people. Some of them have experience.

Repeat Offenders

There are some reality tv stars that have been in more than one show, but I wouldn't consider this an offense. Just because Snooki from Jersey Shore was on Is She Really Going Out With Him? does not mean that she can't also be in a house and show us how stupid yet humorous she actually is. I wouldn't really consider these people professionals at RTV, but if other enjoy seeing you and consider you entertaining then keep on doing what you're doing! Why stop if you are getting fame or money out of it? I sure wouldn't!

We Don't Always Relate To It, Yet We Still Like It

Not everyone can relate to Extreme Makeover where people volunteer to rebuild the house of people in need, or to Jersey Shore where all they do is drink and party everyday; however, relating to the characters at a personal level is not always the reason why we watch reality television. Some people like to see how the rich and famous live, dress or spend their money, so they watch Keeping Up With The Kardashians. It is interesting for some to see the real life of celebrities and that they are not just icons created by magazines and media. Others might enjoy shows on VH1 and MTV just because they are funny. Not many people watch those dating shows like Flavor of Love because they relate to them, they watch them because they think it is funny how some people actually compete with other 'for love.' There is an endless amount of reasons why a person is particularly interested in a show, everyone has their reasons.

Repeat Offenders

I agree with the point that many people who go into reality television often appear on other shows after they have finished the first show they appeared on. For example almost everyone who has been on MTV's "The Real World" has been on the sister show "Real World, Road Rules Challenge" In my opinion it is a little ridiculous that some reality stars can show hop from one lame TV show to another. It is funny to me how these people that make fools of themselves on national television are rewarded new contracts to new shows season after season.

Professional Reality Star

I don't believe that there are these professional RTV stars. Although, many of the popular reality tv cast find themselves in other shows, I don't think they are professional reality stars. At the same time I realize how some reality tv cast members use reality tv to make their way to landing bigger roles as an actor or actress. Some popular cast members from reality tv even get their own reality tv shows. But at the same time I don't believe that this makes them a professional reality tv star. The reason why these particular people continue to reappear is because the producers find that fans who follow the first show they appear on for that particular person will continue to follow them on other shows and will just raise the viewer count and raise the money going into the producers pocket.

RTV Stars

I have never really paid attention to the fact that some reality tv characters move to other shows. I'm sure they do this because they get paid well, and I'd probably do the same thing if I were them. Some of these people might be trying to make it big in acting or pursuing other careers so staying in the spotlight will keep them remembered. The Situation from Jersey Shore won't be on the show next season because he is pursuing an acting career. Some of these people use reality tv as a gateway to fame and fortune. Kate, from Jon and Kate Plus 8, has become virtually a superstar. She has paparazzi following her because of the divorce and she continues to go on shows such as Dancing With the Stars. I'm sure she has made enough money to hire nannys to help out with her children but I wonder how being away from her kids to shoot a show such as the aforementioned will affect her kids growing up if she continues this lifestyle. If she is constantly on TV and away from home, her kids will remember that her mom was never there growing up. Maybe this isn't the case but I feel like it should be something that is looked into further. We do become attached to some of the characters on RTV and we follow them from show to show because we like them. Television series purposely get the characters that they think viewers will watch, it all makes sense. And as a character, if they are paying you enough, why not do it?

"Professional" RTV stars?

Initially, no person on a reality show is professional. Actually, I don't really think they ever become "professionals" per say. I think that they just become better at giving producers what they want. Initially they are chosen through a series or interviews and audition tapes etc. but of course that doesn't necessarily mean that the contestant is going to act how they want them to on the actual show. Once they "prove themselves entertaining" other producers and show inventors see that and want them. Having a person from a previous show also usually boosts ratings since people that are attracted from the contestant from the previous show tend to follow the contestant wherever they go. This is also why people who want to become actors or singers come onto these shows: to get the exposure. I don't really follow RTV so I'm not sure of other instances where the "stars" transferred to another show. But all in all I don't think anyone can technically be considered professional, only good at being on the shows.

we like it cause its real?

I think we like reality tv not only because its "real" (which most of it isn't anyways) but for many different reasons. People want to see others in the lifestyle they wish they had, or they want to see others struggle so that they feel better about their own lives. Sometimes they just watch to get a laugh at the idiots acting ridiculous. We are drawn to many different types of characters because they are unlike us... I think that is the main draw. Everyone is curious about other people, and watching reality television is an easy gateway to that.

can you relate?

I think people enjoy watching reality tv because they like to watch the lives of other people. I think it is interesting to see the drama in a character's life on one of these shows. I can't really relate to the life of a character in a reality tv show. Instead I find a character who I like and I want to follow to see what happens to them next. Maybe watching shows like Kate's family makes people who watch feel better about their life because they aren't going through the struggle of raising eight kids. I watch reality not so much because I think it's real but because I find it entertaining. I think RTV is like exaggerated reality because the lives of the characters are so dramatic. This is why I can't really relate to them.

Honestly there is some poeple in reality tv you can relate too. Maybe its not everything they do but maybe just a particular moment in an episode. As far as Jon and Kate plus 8 i think a mother may watch it to get relief on how easy she may have it to kinda bring her back to reality a little. I love the show Keeping up with the Kardashians, i can relate to some thing and the other parts are just for entertainment. The things they do and have in this show make me want to go out and buy the latest designer purse or wear a ton of make uo and be tan because they look so pretty and they do those things. I can only relate a little to the people on jersey shore..for example in Ronnie and Sam fight all the time in their relationship, it brings back memories to sophomore year with me and my boyfriend. I can relate in that aspect. I think that these shows make you look at your own life and maybe compare it to these stars.

What's the appeal?

I think that a lot of people like watching reality tv because they can fine something that they relate to in the characters on the show. Whether the audience is going through the same situations as the person on the show or they feel like their personalities are similar to the characters, there is always something that is relatable. People are attracted to shows about people with glamorous lives like Real Housewives or Keeping up with the Kardashians because we idealize to be like them and want live like them to some extent many people are jealous that these people live seem so easy compared to the average person. Shows that portray ridiculous characters such as Jersey Shore are Flavor of Love draw attention not because everyone can relate to the characters, but because their lifestyles are so different than our that its interesting to see how they act and how they live.

"Real"

I believe some people might actually like watching reality TV because it relates to them. There are shows out there like True Life and 16 and Pregnant that could relate to some people's lives. True Life shows real life situations that many people could relate to and I'm sure there are some pregnant teenagers that feel like they might relate to 16 and Pregnant.. But this isn't the case for everyone. Some people like watching reality TV because its entertaining and hilarious. That's why I watch it. I think that Keeping Up with the Kardashians and Girl Next Door are only watched for the beautiful girls that are in those shows.People might envy those in Pimp My Ride or maybe even Cribs where they how luxurious celeberities are living. Shows like the Jersey Shore show characters everyone loves to laugh at. If anyone could to relate to this show it could be the people who live the stereotypical lifestyle this shows portrays. Reality TV shows like this appeal to a lot of people because people find it interesting to watch how reality characters act in front of the camera in a "real" environment.

"real"ity TV

Most reality shows that are popular show anything but ordinary, every day lives of your average person or family. Their struggles aren't what most people have to deal with, and their lives are all and all very different. I think that's what attracts viewers to these shows, be it because they are watching out of envy and want to live like the characters or because they feel empathy for the characters in the show. When watching The Real Housewives of Orange County, I believe viewers are enticed by their lifestyle and the drama that goes own (whether it is 'real' or not) and thats what keeps them fascinated. However, there are some pretty 'real' reality TV shows out there, surprisingly on MTV. MTV's True Life and I Used To Be Fat are both prime examples of reality TV shows where the audiences can really connect with the characters and relate to them on a deeper level.
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RTV Stars... Repeat Offenders

Is there such a thing as a professional RTV actor or actress? In last week's post Josh pointed out that a Bridalplasty contestant was previously a contestant on Biggest Loser. This made me think about other repeat offenders. Kate Gosslin moved from Jon & Kate Plus Eight to Dancing with the Stars. Jessica Simpson from Newlyweds to her show on VH1 Price of Beauty. Bachelorette contestants tend to become the Bachelors as do the bachelorettes. Elizabeth Hasselback first won Survivor then moved on to host an RTV show on the style network called The Look for Less before landing a hosting gig on The View. So I'll ask again, is there such a thing as a professional RTV star? What does this do for the notion of RTV stars being "real" people? Is this fair? Can you think of other cases similar to the ones I've mentioned?

Relating to RTV

For the most part, I really cant relate to characters in rtv. The majority of them live some extravagent lifestyle or are always in some extreme, over the top situation and that is nothing like my life. The main thing that keeps us entertained in the show is the characters and their antics, but also how likeable they are. No one wants to watch a show where they hate all of the people, the actors are what draw the people in. Then other rtv shows like Pimp My Ride draw people in because they are cool. It shows us something that we will probably never have or experience.

'Real'ity

I can't relate to any characters on shows like John and Kate plus eight however, I can relate to people on The Ultimate Fighter. I bring this show up a lot in my posts only because it is the only reality T.V show I watch with interest. I can relate to the training and work ethic of the fighters on the show. It is my goal to try out for this show one day which motivates me every time I watch it. It's easy for me to relate to the fighters. I've been training for the past five years and I take what I can from the show. Even the little things like how professional fighters carry themselves as individuals and how they deal with tough times. I can't take anything from watching Kate trying to deal with eight kids. There's just nothing in it for me to relate to. The quality of reality T.V shows on the market right now makes it difficult to find relatable characters. Jersey Shore for example; there's nobody I could possibly relate to and I'm sure that's true for a lot of people.

What makes it "real"

To me i feel some of these shows are as fake as sitcoms, dramatized lives for the sake of the camera, and others are actual situations, peoples lives and perspectives. What i think we have grown to love about reality TV is that we can learn about a different persons'' lifestyle and perspective. Think of the shows like Wife Swap where you are shown two different lifestyles and pick and choose what you like and don't like about each, seeing the best and worst come out in both family structures. Naturally we then compare that person and people to ourselves seeing what's similar, different, what you like about a person, an attribute you wish you had, an attribute your glad you don't have. Some people watch Swamp People and say "Thank god i'm not his daughter!" Others would kill to have a chance at living that lifestyle. People will choose and watch shows that they relate to what they seek out of life, and/or fascinated by. Its human beings natural tendency to be curious, but what's interesting is what different people would tend to, or rather watch. And what are the reasons for watching? To "veg out" on the couch and not think about anything? We're certainty thinking about something... hmpf...

Being "Real"

I agree and disagree with the fact that we like it because it's real. I think that when we watch reality TV that we sometimes find the characters on the show are in the same type of situations we find ourselves in. Whether it is getting into arguments with roommates, going through the process of raising kids and many others. There are shows that have some of the qualities and show the things that may happen in any part of our daily life and tend to attract us to that type of show. But at the same time there are other shows that don't have us dealing with things that are actually real for us and will actually happen. Shows like The Kardashians, I think make us think of how life would be like if we were rich and famous. But at the same time these shows can show us why having the fame isn't always a great thing. And then come the infamous show of Jersey Shore. I think that Jersey Shore allows us to look at only certain situations that might be real. The rest would just be labeled as craziness. Ultimately, I think reality shows do offer and attract the realness, some more than others, but in general there is usually an aspect that the viewer can relate to.

How am I supposed to relate, to someone with eight kids?

I'm not sure I can make a connection with a show that features a mother scrambling to corral all eight of her children, when I'm a just your average, run-of-the-mill 19 year old kid. If for any reason at all, I believe we sit down and stomach outrageous reality shows like "Jon and Kate Plus Eight" simply because of the pity we have for the laborious lives of the parents. It may be tough to admit, but watching Kate hustle to change 3 or 4 diapers, cook a pasta dinner, and bathe her kids all simultaneously, ultimately, makes us feel better about how we live our own lives.

Then their are shows like "The Kardashians", that make us so green with envy, I'm often mistaken for the Grinch while watching it. We're all curious to see what the lifestyles of the rich and the famous entail. We watch to eyeball the foreign cars they drive, what designer clothes they wear, and the gourmet foods they eat, not neccesarily because we can relate with them, most of us don't have the wealth to do so.

ReaRRy now?...

First off, I just want to mention how much I disliked how Kate and Jon decided to split up... Now what are those 8 kids going to do... geez. Oh well.

Miss Rosalyn mentioned that in the interview that supposedly people enjoy RTV because it's easy to relate to. Well, that is true. Even though Kate is mother of eight, she is still indeed a mother of a family. The eight kids is just to add more spark to keep it's viewers. However, we are able to relate to Kate and we know that Kate has it a little bit tougher than us due to the massive number of children. We are curious as to see how she deals with the situation. We as humans naturally enjoy people watching. How is she going to react? What is going to happen next? This curiosity fuels our attention span.
Now, with shows like Girls Next Door and Jersey Shore, this is where we look to when we want to look down on things. We see these ridiculous shows and we look down on them and laugh. It may be having that sense of dominance or being better than something or someone else. Sometimes, we can get bogged down in the wrong truth and even envy these characters. We may start to think thoughts such as, 'I want to look like that', or 'I wish I had that kind of life.' All this just comes from our natural human nature.
Lastly, my FAVORITE, shows like AXE MEN and SWAMP PEOPLE. For me personally, (this will probably be the same for other men also) I enjoy these shows because they spark our rugged side. We [men] were born not to live the comfortable life but to live for GREATNESS. In these shows, we see or brothers, the strength, endurance, grace and skill. It makes our calling to something greater light on fire again. I personally always want to achieve something greater; I think this is true for all people, even the girls also. We all seek that perfection and these shows for us men give us hope.

I think most people like shows like Keeping up with the Kardashians because they get to see the life of luxury that they want. Also I think that people like to watch shows that they can relate to. Shows like Axe Men or Swamp People are entertaining because we get to see the extreme lifestyles that we never knew existed, or that we have only read about. Plus, it is super dangerous, and there is a possibility of someone getting hurt and crazy situations that occur. I feel like these kinds of shows are somewhat like extreme sports. We like to watch very unique things that the average person never does. The criteria for reality tv definitely has to be something out of the ordinary, something that most people are not accustomed to in order for people to take an interest in it.

Real Talk for You

The question is "do we see ourselves in reality tv show characters?" The answer to that question in my opinion is it depends. Actually now that I think about it I think the more appropriate answer to the previous question is that we as people watching reality tv ca relate to the character, not necessarily that we see ourselves in them. Every adult with children can relate to the extra 20 miles they are willing to go for their kids because they love their kids. That is why Jon and Kate plus 8 is a  very popular show. It has humorous situations that every parent has gone through, from changing diapers to gathering the kids to go to a destination to the struggle of making kids want to take a bath when they are filthy. Jon and Kate obviously love their kids hence why it is a very relatable/likable show to people, it focuses on family and most people hold that subject in high regard. Now on the other hand there are shows like Pimp My Ride that are just pure entertainment. I can honestly say I can only relate with X to the Z (Xzibit) on only one subject, we both rap. But the show isn't about it's host as much as the people who need their whips to be pimped and the people who insure that said whip is pimped. The pimpers and the pimped. I think the only thing the show has going for it is the pimpin' of the ride itself. Let's be honest, the show has terrible one liners that are so bad that it isn't funny, and it doesn't seem like they do it on purpose either. But anywho, that show is just pure entertainment and eye candy, not a show that you watch and to say to yourself "Boy...I can really relate to Xzibit on this issue; to put 24's or 26's on the ride, to put a fish tank in the dash or put a PS3 in the car...that is question?"

I Like RTV Because It's Real?

I'm sure that some people do watch RTV shows to see themselves in some sort of new light, but i know that I watch RTV purely for entertainment purposes. When I watch Top Gear I do not watch it to see myself as an old out of shape englishmen who knows a lot about cars. I watch it for entertainment and to learn more about cars and the magnificent things they are able to do. When I watch Jersey Shore I don't watch it to see myself as a tanned up juice head gorilla Guido. I watch it to laugh at how pathetic and ridiculous those people act and what they believe real life is. I doubt that people seriously can say they watch shows to see themselves in certain characters. RTV should be for entertainment purposes, but I think people take it a little far when saying that it is more than just someone watching a character make a fool of themselves on national tv.

"Real"

I personally disagree that, as viewers, we can see ourselves in the characters. There is no show that I can think of that I feel like I relate to the person being documented. And I really hope that no one in our class can relate the people on Jersey Shore. I watch the Jersey Shore on occasion because I have the characters that I "cheer" for and some others that I don't like. I can't relate to Kate having too many kids, to the Real Housewives, or to the cast from Jersey Shore. Usually I watch reality tv shows because I find the people interesting. Yes, I am envious of the Real Housewives and their lavish lifestyles and this is probably why I find the show so appealing. These shows have an entertainment value to them, but, for me, are not at all relateable. We might want to watch a show to see someone overcome struggles and their personal battles because we find that interesting. This reiterates that famous people do have struggles too, but they aren't necessarily the same struggles that we are facing. Shows that are based around families such as Keeping Up with the Kardashians and Gene Simmons: Family Jewels, I watch because I find the characters amusing and it's interesting to watch. It shows that all families have their own issues and they fight, but at the end of the day family is all that matters.

We like it because it's "real"?

So the other day I was watching the biography of Kate Gosselin from the TLC reality show Jon & Kate Plus Eight, and when speaking about the popularity of the show, one of the entertainment experts that they interviewed stated that people like reality TV because we like watching the lives of characters that we can relate to; we like to see ourselves in these characters. Do you think this is true? Do you think this is the case for all RTV shows? Do we like to watch a mother of eight struggle to make ends meet because that struggle seems more “real”? Where do idealized shows such as Keeping Up with the Kardashians or Pimp My Ride or Girls Next Door fit in? These shows aren’t about normal everyday lives. They give us a glimpse at glamour. Do we like these because we can see ourselves in the characters? because we envy the characters? And what about shows that portray ridiculous characters and outlandish lifestyles such as Jersey Shore or Axe Men or Swamp People? Can we relate to these characters? What is their appeal?
I want you to feel free to use examples of shows I haven’t listed here to enter into this discussion.

Bridalplasty

I believe that shows like Dr.90210 and Extreme Makeover are or should I say were on the air because they generated a lot interest. There are plenty of people who watch these types of shows. Not to mention a lot of young women out there strive to be like the women in these shows. All these shows do is tell young women that getting plastic surgery is cool and it will make you perfect. I think that Bridalplasty is sending the wrong message to the public. I don't like the concept of and I don't see why is was even created. When someone gets eliminated in the show the host tells them that they're wedding. This is telling women they can't have their dream wedding unless they follow their guidelines. I just don't why women watch and buy into these shows when they truly don't need them.

Characterization

I think characteriztion is shown in many different reality TV shows. Many directors and producers try to create characters to appeal to an audience. They create characters that fit certain stereotypes. The interviews or confessionals could be used to show how dumb, self-centered, crazy or snobbish a character is. Shows like Jersey Shore and the Real World use interviews and confessionals to get the characters insight to what is going on throught out the show. I think that they are sort of used for narrating the show while we watch it. I also think think that they are another way to entertain the people who are watching the show.

Bridalplasty

Personally, I do not enjoy watching shows like this where girls work so hard to look like what they think society claims is "beautiful". I think it does send out a negative message and I wouldn't spend my time watching it. I don't understand why they would create a show where girls get plastic surgery before their wedding day. I think more and more people will soon feel like they have to look perfect in every way in order to feel pretty. I also don't like how the people in these shows get everything they want and more because it doesn't seem real. I don't think this show is going to last long because the girls seem so fake.

Birdalplasty

Wow, is the first thing that comes into my mind when a show like this airs on television for everyone to see. It is just shocking first of all that people like this exist out there who are willing to make a joke of themselves on national television. Because trust when i watched that video, i laughed! I do not know if they are thinking about the future at all. What about after marraige when you have kids? When they see this are they going to be proud that their mother went through this competition so that she could get money to look better for marraige. Almost at a point of selling herself. I do not know what goes through their minds, neither do i know what goes throught the minds of the creators of such shows, it is remarkable. This show has taken the defintion up a notch and has shown the true ugliness of what some people are willing to do.

Bridalplasty

Unfortunate to say, I have had the misfortune of coming across the show Bridalplasty. The whole concept of the show does not really make sense to me. Women arguing and competing to completely change the appearance that had gotten them to their wedding day in the first place. If the relationship had gotten serious enough and lasted long enough to make it all the way to marriage, what makes you think you should change yourself? I have not watched multiple episodes of the show nor kept up with it at all, but I think it would be interesting to see if after all of the plastic surgeries are said and done, if the surgeries worsen some of the relationships and maybe even cause separation.

Bridalplasty

The show Bridalplasty sends a bad message out to its viewers. This show and others like it promote plastic surgery and influence their viewers. People, mostly women, who watch this show will feel like its necessary to get plastic surgery to be beautiful or wanted by men. These women already have soon-to-be husbands who love them for who they are, why would they want to change themselves? What kind of message does this send to society? Young girls who watch this show will think it is normal to get plastic surgery to feel beautiful. Plastic surgery shows promote a certain body type that is often not natural. Shows like these contribute to women feeling insecure about their bodies if they are not stick thin with perfect noses. I believe there are certain circumstances when plastic surgery is acceptable, but looking perfect for your wedding day is not one of those. This show is aired for its entertainment value, because the girls create drama and fight among themselves. Plastic surgery shows glorify plastic surgery and make it seem like it’s the only way to feel good about yourself. This is completely untrue and sending a terrible message out to women in society. 

Bridalplasty

I have never seen this show Bridalplasy, but I kind of have an idea about what it could be about. There are many shows like these where they show people who are or want to be like the 'high-class' society of America, which seems to consist of spoiled people or those who are obsessed with beauty and fashion. A lot of people think that shows like these bring down the self-esteem of teenagers because they see these people who can get everything they want and look as good as possible at all times, leading some viewers to believe that this is the norm. On the other hand, there are those who think that these shows are just for entertainment purposes.
I think that they can affect the self-esteem of insecure teenagers; however, I do see how some people especially females would seem drawn to these shows. Not everyone who goes to college achieves the 'American Dream', but why not hope that some day you can? The same thing can be said of these show, no one said you are rich and famous, but who knows you could be one day. This is not what I think personally, but I bet some of the loyal viewers of these shows could agree that in some way they wish they could be the ones getting plastic surgery or vacationing without limits or time frames.

Bridalplasty

I have never heard of the show Bridalplasty, but i just watched some clips and previews for the show and I have to say that the concept is completely ridiculous. It making women believe that they have to go to extremes to be considered beautiful on their wedding day. Why would women want to change themselve so drasctically? Obviously their fiances like them for who they are since they asked them to marry them in the first place. Although I'm against this show, I have to admit that I was sucked into the show Extreme Makeover when it was on tv a few years ago. I think these shows are not trying to show awareness about plastic surgery, I think they are for purely for entertainment purposes. They also glamorize plastic surgeries that attempt to make women look younger and more vibrant. They are persuading people to put their lives in danger for silly little flaws. Sure i agree with plastic surgery for some things, for example if you broke your nose and have to get a nose job to fix it and stuff like that.

Fake Brides

I find this topic on the reality television show "Bridalplasty" to be very discussable. In my opinion however, a woman, furthermore a bride, should be valued for much more than what this show entails. Plastic surgery is used to alter the natural appearance of a person to look different then how they really are. Why would an engaged woman need to alter her appearance to impress others or even herself?? Her future husband should be happy with the woman he is engaged to and she should be happy with what he loves her for. Similarly, i feel very strong against the whole plastic surgery ideal to enhance women. True beauty comes from the inside and shows through on the out.

Characterization

The point of interviews in these types of shows are so you can get a better feel of how the character is personally instead of on screen in front of the camera. You see them all the time in the middle of drama and all the hectic and it makes you get an idea of what they are actually thinking about the whole show and what's actually going on. They are a good part of shows, even if they are just a load of bs, it makes viewers think they know the cast better, and know what is actually going on a little more.

Bridalplasty

Bridalplasty sounds like one of the dumbest plots of any reality T.V show I've ever heard of. Engaged women trying to change their image? I'm not sure who they're trying so hard to impress if they are already engaged and quite frankly I don't care either. I never understood why people get plastic surgery and I never will. That said, the show is on television and people are watching. But I'm assuming the demographic consists predominantly of women who live out other peoples' fantasies by watching the show. There is no purpose in my opinion of this show. It's not informative and it's barely entertaining. This just shows that different shows appeal to different audiences. Some people like seeing engaged women compete for plastic surgery and many others do not. There's something for everyone in reality T.V.

Bridalplasty

I have never seen the show but from what you described it to be I think it is ridiculous and would probably not even watch it once. I would definitely not make it through an entire episode. These shows that advertise plastic surgery like you mentioned, probably get paid to do so. Sadly this propaganda technique of influencing the general public by claiming that if you get plastic surgery, you will be like celebrities works. The price alone of plastic surgery and botox alone would deter me from ever getting it. I do not think bridalplasty and other shows that advertise this should be entertainment.

Plastic Surgery Say Whaaa?

Although competing for plastic surgery is looked down upon, the shows still manage to somehow suck us into the show. They are justified by the networks that air them because they say that this is not "reality" and people should know that this is not okay; that it is for entertainment purposes only. However, people do take these shows seriously. I think the purpose of these shows is purely entertainment, and for the contestants free plastic surgery. I defintitely believe that everything in "Hollywood" is connected in some way or another, and you know that the glamorization of plastic surgery on these television shows is anticipated by the high-priced plastic surgeons. I looked up the statistics and full-on invasive plastic surgery rates seemed to have decreased since 2000, although minimally invasive procedures such as Botox have gone up 77% since 2000. Heres the link to see for yourself: Plastic Surgery Statistics. Personally, I really do not like shows such as Bridalplasty, but I will admit I have gotten sucked into watching it a couple times. I believe that the show's implications are to send a negative message to girls saying "plastic surgery is normal and everyone does it." Using plastic surgery as entertainment value is not okay in my opinion. There have been previous shows like Bridalplasty but without the plastic surgery part, and because people are believed to not be responding to that anymore, they figured adding plastic surgery to the mix would add a more exciting layer onto the previously existing show.

Characterization

I think the confessionals are popular with reality television shows because it lets the person express themsleves without the influence that comes along with being around other people all the time. It also helps us understand why they are acting the way they are, and lets us "get to know them" on a personal level instead of just grouping them in with the entire cast of the show; it creates more substantial individuality. One of the main shows that comes to my mind when I think of confessionals is "America's Next Top Model." I think the reason that we come to care about specific characters in such a short amount of time is because each episode tends to focus on a different person/people from the last episode, therefore making the audience want to replace the person they cared about in the last episode. The producers also have edit the confessionals to include the most substantial parts of their personality that includes lots of ethos, and usually juicy drama :)

What did you do to your face!?!?

Isn't it bad enough that we have girls going under the knife to get boob jobs at the age of 16? That they upchuck the meager bowl of salad they ate for lunch, so that their figure can look like the bare bones model posing on the cover of Seventeen? Apparently not, because now we have television shows like "Bridalplasty," that essentially blasts young teens into thinking they're hideous, unless they butcher their precious little noses with a rhinoplasty.

Women have little self esteem as it is, they don't need shows like "Bridalplasty" and "Dr.90210" contributing to the issue of body image. At their core, these television programs are really just giant 42 minute advertisements for plastic surgery. What television really needs are reality shows that reward you for loving yourself, just the way you are.

Plastic Brides (the barbie of life)

This public display of America's horrifying developments in materialism have gone so far that the earth may never forgive us for abandoning her in our search for humans' idea of ideal perfection in this physical life. I could not tell you what the intention of such a show truly is. What the creators had in mind or whether this is a show that simply developed around an actual phenomenon (which i hope isn't true). But what this show does do is portray american society at its worst. Here we are wasting thousands probably millions of dollars just to have women compete over their fantasies of the perfect look, the perfect body, the perfect wedding. These shows display america as the near sighted and self absorbed culture that it truly is. Here are women, playing barbie, with themselves. Literally. It''s rather disgusting, and I wonder why these shows are still on. Clearly it has to do with the viewing rate, but then why do people watch? Is it to get an idea of what you personally think is perfection by seeing other people's perception of perfection. To see if a really "perfect wedding" is even possible, or are there flaws in everyone, and every situation. If every angle and aspect is perfectly staged even to the point that every curve on their body is reexamined for perfection, can there still something utterly human and imperfect. That i believe is the appeal, if not, you are wasting your time supporting habits no one should follow, just by turning it on, you support that lifestyle by sustaining it as a normal aspect of our culture to be typically discussed "around the water jug" This public display of America's horrifying developments in materialism have gone so far that the earth may never forgive us for abandoning her in our search for humans' idea of ideal perfection in this physical life. She may very well die in the process of our absorption.

Bridalplasty

How people come up with TV shows such as 'Bridalplasty' is beyond me. The show is a total turn off, and I don't know who in their right mind would consider going through so many painful and dangerous surgeries to look better for one day. I can understand why someone would want to go through plastic surgery to fix something that actually needs to be fixed in order to help in daily life, but surgeries such as nose jobs, boob jobs, and others of that nature do not fit the part. I feel as though shows such as 'Bridalplasty' and 'Dr. 90210' give false advertisements of plastic surgery, making such surgeries seem like no big deal. Viewers are attracted to these shows because of how far-fetched they are, and how unrealistic these 'reality' shows really are.

Bridalplasty

Bridalplasty and the other shows listed I don't believe are played on the air for any particular reason. Maybe some people can relate to how they want that perfect wedding and will do no matter what to achieve it, to some it could be comical to how hard these people try to make whatever they can about themselves "better" or even just to keep us entertained. The only reason why these shows are still on the air is that people, like us right now, are continuing to talk about them. By having these types of debates and questions, it causes for us to stay tuned to the show and see what it is all about. When we do this we are just boosting the ratings for the show and raising the popularity. While we continue to follow these shows we become hooked and are tuning in for every episode. For me, I will not be watching this show and find that shows about plastic surgery and such are a waste of my time.

Bridalplasty

I actually saw an interview with one of the shows producers and she said that this show is for women to feel empowered on their wedding day. Now I'm not to sure if that is the message that this show is sending. I feel like this show is telling these women they don't look a certain way ergo they need to be on a reality TV show to have the "look" or else their weddings wont be all they imagined it would be. This is a horrible idea that kids are probably going to see. The idea that if you aren't perfect you can easily have your problems fixed with a minor surgery, but the fact is that isn't how society should work. This show and shows like it is the reason I choose not to watch reality television. It makes me sick to see what lengths people are willing to go to fit into a perfect society.

Bridalplasty

The only reasons shows like this are still on the air are because there is an audience for them. People want to watch them. People will watch shows like these they are interested in them and can relate to them. The people on the show, define the show. If it wasn't for characters that people could relate to, then there would be no point to the show. As for now, the only point to this show is entertainment. They aren't highlighting the dangers of plastic surgery, they are promoting it. They are saying it's ok to go and have yourself "fixed." They are promoting a fake image and to go to any lengths to look young. No, I have never seen the show and I have no intention of watching it. The implications of the show is that people are viewing plastic surgery as acceptable. They find that if you don't like something, then it's ok to fix it. It's also sending out he message of a very fake image in a social aspect.

Shite...I forgot we had this post about CHRACTERIZATION

So characterization... it is the selling point of most shows. There is always the person who has witty remarks, the smart ass. There is always the bully.There is always the whore that makes me wonder,"why is she a whore...I would never poke her...not even on Facebook." The repetition is to help sell my point that these characters are stock aka stereotypes. People eat this crap up. They love conflict between the quiet, self-imploding person and the obnoxious, muscle bound prick. They are going to root for the underdog, nobody likes the prick. Everybody in someway or another can relate to at least one of the characters (ever wonder why there always at least 8 people on the show?).

Getting to know their attitude

With any reality TV show we watch, the first thing we do is analyze the person we are watching. As a matter of fact that's what you do a majority of the time. But then how do we get to know these people to the point that we are saying "Oh my god, she is going to be so angry at him for doing that behind her back, she's gonna be so jealous and probably flip out, this is gonna get good!" The whole time we are trying to judge what the next situation will be like based on what we think we know about a person's lifestyle and attitude. To make the audience connect quickly with the characters/actors/people the creators give a sense of a person's stream of consciousness in a situation by using later interviews to spark full fledged narrations from each person's perspective. As footage of a person walking away from an argument plays, it's cut with the voice over of the later interview where she states "I just get so frustrated when people are too hard headed and won't listen to what you have to say." When a viewer turns on the TV and sees a person walking away looking frustrated (like we all have been before) and hear their voice, it reminds us of how we are typically thinking "Why are they so hard headed" as we walk away from our frustrations. We instantly connect to the material because it provides the internal, and external point of view that we all live in. The editing creates the full illusion of us understanding the person's stream of consciousness in that exact situation, making viewers believe we can accurately predict (and sometimes do) how a person will react to, and carry out situations. We get enthralled in seeing what will actually happen to these characters because we feel we know something about how that character lives and acts.

Plastic surgery, and superficial features.

I feel the purpose of shows like Bridalplasty, Dr.90210, etc. is to inform, thats right inform. There are women out there, who are so self absorbed, and self conscious that they want to change the way they look, despite the fact that the man who they're marrying, obviously loved them the way they were beforehand. The show Bridalplasty seems especially superficial. Girls on the show are all competing for a dream wedding, which, granted is not superficial, but there is a lot of betrayal, and lying on the show. Plastic surgery has been twisted, and morphed from its origins in treating burn victims, cancer patients, and Dermal diseases; into a hollywood hobby.

Bridalplasty

Personally, I think shows like Bridalplasty are disgusting. Women competing against each other to get plastic surgery before their wedding day. That sounds like a horrible idea for a TV show to me, yet many of my friends and thousands of Americans tune in weekly. I think this show idolizes appearance. It relates back to all of the touch ups they do in magazine and commercials to make the perfect woman with no curves or flaws. Many other shows idolize a perfect lifestyle and maybe the plastic surgery and other "perks" that come with it. Shows like The Hills and The Real Housewives have people so wealthy that they can afford to spend whatever it takes to get the perfect look. Heidi, who started off her career on Laguna Beach, got plastic surgery in attempts to look like Barbie and came out with so many alterations that she looks alien-like. I do not think a show's main focus should be plastic surgery, teen pregnancy, or anything of the kind. Younger girls watch these shows and these people should not be their role models.

The characters.

All reality TV shows rely heavily on characterization, from shows that have new characters each episode, like intervention, to shows with a consistent host and participants, like man vs. wild. Each of these shows have either incredibly relate-able, flawed, or charismatic personalities. Shows like Man vs. Wild have a very charismatic man named Bear Gryles showing us how to survive harsh environments. While in shows like Intervention the new characters are being rounded as the show goes on. The viewers will either sympathize with him/her, or despise him/her. This type of show doesn't rely on the characters as much as the events themselves. A third type of character on reality TV would be the relate-able character. An example would be Undercover boss. These characters tend to make the viewer sympathetic with them; and the studio will try to frame them as an "average joe." Character development is important in every type of reality TV, and different forms have different types of character development.

Characters who I wouldn't want to be

The show does bring negative thoughts to mind. Though in the world we live in now, I feel there are more and more people who are becoming more self conscious about their bodies and appearances. With this in mind, I believe many watch the show because they are in awe and want to see what other crazy things these people will do. Sort of like how Jersey Shore has it's crew of blockheads who are revered for their stupidity/comedy. However, I also think there are many people who watch the show because they ARE self conscious and are looking to other ways to find beauty. Either way, the characters are promoting plastic surgery through the media and I am sure that the industry of plastic surgery is also fueling the stream of these types of shows as well.

Bridal Plasty ect!

I think that these shows make girls and adults want to change themselves and get plastic surgery. If the random people on tv can do it so should we. I think there is an image that all people strive for. That perfect body, nice boobs, pretty hair, sports illustrated model status. These shows emphasized changing yourself to be that pretty girl on tv. i think the purpose is for entertainment mainly, people want to see what each girl will look like in the end.

Characterization!

when thinking of characters i think it is very important for them to have their own view point and own personality and have some of them clash and some become best friends. The characters make the drama. If one character does something you like or would agree with or even its something you would do, there is a connection between the two of you. It is fun to have something in common with the character because then you want to follow them and see what they do next. The new show Skins on Mtv isnt quite a reality show but honestly i think it kind of could be categorized as one. The thing about this show is each episode they focus on a new character and the character is the name of that episode. Even though however its focused on that one character they manage to still incorporate all the other and you stilll have a chance to relate and figure each one out. each character does something drastic or that stands out and thats what makes the character who they are.

JWowwwww

Characterization definitely plays a huge role in the success of a RTV show. One character who really ticks out at me is JWoww from Jersey Shore because, as we are to discuss, she is one of the characters on RTV in general that I can relate to the most. Her entire personality in general reminds me of myself so of course I am very fond of her role on Jersey Shore. She has a very strong and outspoken personality and i think that when casting for a reality TV show that having a strong personality is really important for a shows success. I believe that when casting strong personalities for RTV that a broad spectrum of personalities are brought together to reach to a greater audience. This allows for more people to relate to the characters and thus watch the show. However, the personalities of all RV starts have to be pretty exaggerated to allow for the drama that is usually found in RTV.

Characterization

No wants to watch a boring RTV show, so producers do not film boring people. I think the reason people keep coming back to watch shows is because of the interesting and unique people. This is what makes the RTV show good. There is always that segment in every RTV show that shows the characters all alone by themselves being filmed talking about the day, or the events that took place, or the events to come. This is the way that the producers allow the viewers to get to know the characters so we come back and watch the show again. And these characters are never boring, they always have some unique characteristic or personality that keeps people watching.

Characterization

RTV shows use many tactics in order to keep the viewer entertained, one major factor being characterization. Producers want the characters to be relatable so that the audience will get attatched and become avid watchers of the show. By using confessionals, the characters in the show let all of their guard down and welcome the viewer into their mind and show their 'true' feelings. The characters are portrayed as being in more of a reality because they are just telling their feelings and there is no 'acting' involved in front of the other cast mates. I am currently watching The Bachelor, and interviews are used a lot to get the perspective of all of the girls on what is going on, and it gives the audience a real taste of their personality.

Characterization

While watching one and only one episode of Jersey Shore, i noticed many scenes which contributed to the "reality television" factor of the show. In particular, characterization is consistent throughout during scenes where individual characters discuss their personal reflections/ opinions on what had previously happened. While these characters are reflecting and expressing their opinions, we simultaneously built opinions of them as well. For example, a character in Jersey Shore may say something that is stupid or ignorant to me yet could be funny and acceptable to someone else. These opinions are continually built throughout 'seasons' of reality television episodes and allow us to become interested or disinterested.

Characterization

Having a connection with the characters on reality TV shows is a big part of why these types of shows are so popular. If you watch an episode of True Life on MTV, they introduced you to the lives of three people and you immediately feel like you know them and understand their struggles. You see them go through the show and feel like you are with them the as they are trying to get help. This is present in almost every reality TV how whether it be Jersey Shore or Hoarders. These shows portray people in a way that make you feel like you know them because they are so open and honest with the camera. Because the confessionals are more private, you feel more of a connection with them. You feel like they are confessing what is really on their minds at the time with you. People like feeling like they are entitled to something, so feeling like the characters are sharing their true feelings with you makes you feel important. Because you watch the show with these characters, you feel like you know them and you’ve been going through everything they do on the show with them. Characterization is a big part of reality TV shows and contributes to their success and popularity. 

Characterization

Different shows all have their own way of grabbing on to the audience and holding their attention. The shows that do it the best are the ones that stick around. One of the biggest factors, other than being interesting, is how the characters are portrayed and how well we can relate to them. One of the main factors about the characters is that they are put on the show to ellicit a response from us; they want us to form an opinion about them. Every show has a character that everyone loves. Everyone has a character that they hate, or can relate to. Then when the show has to introduce new characters each time, they try to reveal as much as possible about them to get the audience to form an attachment to them, because the more we know them, we stronger emotions we have about them.

characterization

I think that in most RTV shows everyone can find a character that they can relate to. Because the people in these shows have different personalities and characterization, the shows are more interesting to watch. When watching a show you follow a character who you find interesting and you like and there are those characters who you don't like. If RTV shows didn't have characterization I think it would be boring to watch because all of the characters would be dull. The interviews serve to show you what the person is thinking and it makes you feel closer to them so you want to keep watching the other episodes to see what happens next. Such as in Real Housewives you can get to know each of the characters, and you want to continue watching. I think the producers want to create interesting characters to capture audience.

Characters

I think that shows that have different characters get the audience to care about them in such a short amount of time is that they put people on the shows that everyone can relate to in some way. I think shows try to cast people that have very different personalities from one another so that the audience has the ability to grow attached to at least one of these people. Different shows introduce the audience to these characters by providing background information on all of them and having confessional and individual interviews for each character. For example, on the show The Biggest Loser in the very first episode of each season a mini biography is shown for every cast member to show the audience how they got to the weight that they are. I think a lot of shows also rely on strong characterization that make the series more interesting which in tern attracts a larger audience. An example of a show with very strong characterization would be something like I love New York. The characters on that show very so unique and had such strong personalities that it made the show that much funner to watch and enjoy. Basically to wrap this up everyone is looking for someone to relate to and compare their lives to when watching different tv show, so shows try to cast unique individuals that allow different audience members the ability to relate.

Bridal Plasty

You know as I was cycling through the characters on this show, I began to think "this looks like The Biggest Loser with plastic surgery." Come to find out one of the contestants on Bridal Plasty actually is a former contestant on The Biggest Loser. Go figure (as a side note, she must not have gotten very far in The Biggest Loser...just saying.) But then I came across one of the contestants named Cheyenne. Why the H is she on this show? She is soooo attractive. She doesn't need plastic surgery in any regards. There are a couple of others just like her on the show. Women are so self-conscious, but  I think one of the aims of casting attractive women with women ranging from the so-so scale to the ehh scale is so that viewers at home have a reason to watch. It puts a spin on things. Who wants to just watch the fat chicks fight for plastic surgery? A lot of people. Who wants to have attractive antagonists to root against when they don't need it all? You can argue that the show is meant to inform people how women feel about themselves when they look in the mirror, uglier than they actually are. But for the most part I think its main aim is for pure entertainment. However, America is all about looking younger. Diet pills, P90x routines,plastic surgery, even neck slimmer adds that I see at 3 in the morning. You can really argue any of these points for the shows purpose, maybe its goal is an acclimation of all of these different purposes.

Sex Sells

I think a lot of those shows are for entertainment but also trying to sell things. The whole thing with Real Housewives and The Hills is showing how other women and in a way trying to sell to people that that is how everyone should be. It makes girls and women feel worse about themselves and makes them want to be like what they see and watch. Women are portrayed as perfect and if they aren't they look bad. They are trying to sell and to entertain.

BRIDALPLASTY!

So I keep seeing previews and reviews of the show Bridalplasty on E! and I was wondering what all the fuss was about, so I visited the website and watched some clips. First off, I was really turned off by the idea of competing for plastic surgery to look your best on your wedding day, but I soon became enthralled by these characters, the women who are up against each other for nose jobs or boob lifts. I started to think about other shows with similar themes such as Extreme Makeover, Dr. 90210, etc. or even shows that don't feature plastic surgery but advertise it such as the Real Housewives series or even MTV's The Hills. If these types of shows meet so much outspoken resistance, why are they still on the air and how are they justified by the stations that broadcast them? What is the purpose of these shows? Awareness? Entertainment? Comic relief? Are these shows aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of plastic surgery? or do you think the shows work to glamorize elective surgeries to look younger? Do you buy into these shows? What are the implications of shows like Bridalplasty? What kind of societal message do they send?

Here is the website for the show where you can watch clips and learn more:

http://www.eonline.com/on/shows/bridalplasty/index.html

Characterization in Reality TV

The other night, A & E played a particularly grave episode of "Intervention". The program featured a young teen who had squandered his education, family, and health because it was getting in the way of his dogged meth addiction. In one scene, we were given a glimpse into one of his sessions, where he nonchalantly plunges a meth-filled needle into his already speckled elbow crease. Just taking in his unkempt appearance, careless attitude, and selfishness, It was impossible for me to not feel some sympathy for the druggie.

Its this type of honest characterization that allow reality shows like "Intervention" to have a connection with viewers. We are thrust into the woeful lives of drug addicts and through peeks into their being, we begin to develop a relationship with the misguided TV characters. Ultimately, we stay glued to our TV sets and root for the show's character, hoping that they receive the rehab that the most certainly need.

Worthy Characters?

The characters on most reality TV shows are characters that in real life would not be the most popular people in the room. It seems that the most popular reality TV stars are the stars that like to cause drams which is not appretiated in real life. In Jersey Shore most of the characters i think were chosen on purpose because of the kind of personality that they carry, which is perfect for the show. For 16 & pregnant, they have to choose pregnant girls and the characters differ from person to person. Shows like wipeout choose clumsy people, while shows such as gladiator choose strong and athletic people. So it jus depends from show to show what kind of characters they contain.