Why is reality TV so popular?

As someone who is violently obsessed with reality tv, I think it’s important that we indulge in it every now and then. The genre of Television has risen in popularity in the last 2 decade. Here’s why I think this is.

1. Entertainment

First and foremost, reality TV provides us with entertainment. Like any other form of viewing based media, it aims to entertain and engage the viewer in a story. The story of the show, however, is based on someone’s reality. This allows viewers to relate to what they’re watching, although sometimes it’s based on people from a different walk of life. Overall, I feel like the “Reality” of the human experience in Reality TV is what makes it so successful.

2. Escapism

I also feel that Reality TV is so successful because, like many other media forms, it provides viewers with a form if escapism. Reality TV enables viewers to step outside their own reality and experience someone else’s reality. During an era like this, where life can feel so isolating and overwhelming, Reality TV often allows viewers to escape from the intensity of life and the emotions that can come with it.

3. Community

With Reality TV gaining such popularity in the 2000s and the rise of fan bases, it has provided people with the ability to connect with others through their love of a TV show. It also enables audiences to share the views and opinions on the show. Whether it be about a certain character or scenario. This genre of TV provides viewers with even more human interaction and can in turn create a sense of community.

Reality TV, has more of an impact on human connections and interactions than we may realise. It can be much more than just a form of entertainment. I have only very briefly touched on the impact it has and can have.