The Reality of Reality

It seems like there is a reality show for everything now. There are the normal singing/dancing shows, but now we have shows about motherhood, partying in the south, and duck-call-makers.

I am not one to judge, because I gobble up these shows like a turkey dinner. But, is it even worth working hard anymore if you can just be on a show and get paid for basically doing nothing? That’s what the cast members of Buckwild do, as did the cast of Jersey Shore. We as the viewers like to imagine ourselves being able to be famous for doing nothing. We’re ordinary people, just like those we see on Buckwild or Jersey Shore. An article published by Psychology Today stated, “The message of reality television is that ordinary people can become so important that millions will watch them. And the secret thrill of many of those viewers is the thought that perhaps next time, the new celebrities might be them.” These shows catch our attention because we might secretly want to live their live. We have to work, work, work, when they get to have fun.

At the same time though, do would we really want to be on one of these reality shows? Your personal life is splashed all over television, as is any little mistake you make. And of course, everyone has their opinion. These opinions can be seen in the comments section after every article, or on websites such as IMDb. A person has to have a thick skin to be able to put up with constant critics. There are endless death threats and bullying the reality stars receive.

People become so fascinated by your private business, such as the mothers on Teen Mom and how they raise their children. Everyone has a different parenting style and these ladies are no different. We always want to know who is dating who and if the girl is having drama with her baby’s daddy.

Reality life can have a positive affect. When Hurricane Sandy ripped through the Jersey Shore, the cast of the popular show rallied fans and tried to raise as much money as possible.

When it comes down to it, one has to think of the pros and cons of being a reality star. They might seem to live a glamorous life, but it comes at a cost.