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  • Essay / Why Reality TV Shows Are So Popular - 850

    Every day, millions of people turn on their TVs to enjoy a wide variety of shows, with the most popular choice being some form of reality TV. This catch-all genre lies between information and entertainment and brings together all types of programs involving ordinary individuals. Some consider this type of programming to be mindless and demeaning, while others find it both amusing and educational. Regardless of which side a person agrees with, there remains one undeniable fact: reality TV is here to stay. The target audience, the cost of production and the possibility of giving an outlet to the viewer are three main reasons why this is possible. Although many people of all ages enjoy watching different reality TV shows, the majority are aimed at teenagers and young adults. Shows like Real World, American Idol and Dancing with the Stars and many more are all supported by hundreds of websites regarding hidden facts, merchandise, news about certain cast members, as well as other activities of fans. (Hill 5) There are even episode summaries for those who might not have been able to watch it when it aired. By utilizing other aspects of communication, reality television is able to keep a firm grip on the younger community that thrives on everything accessible on the Internet. In addition to being able to access reality TV through the Internet, research has shown that many preteen and teen viewers base most of their decisions and prioritize things based on what they see each night on their favorite shows. In 2011, a survey was conducted among more than 1,000 American girls aged 11 to 17. Those who watch more reality TV most often place greater value on things highlighted on...... middle of paper...... ratings are, the more ideas there will be needed cheap production for sale. Because reality TV does not require additional production or writing teams, it will always be the first choice. By choosing regular, everyday people, viewers will always have the best character to relate to or emulate. So, will reality TV disappear soon? The facts speak for themselves. Works Cited Hill, Annette. Reality TV: audiences and popular factual television. London: Routledge, 2005. Electronic Book Collection (EBSCOhost). Internet. April 10, 2014. Weller, Chris. “Welcome to my non-reality.” Newsweek Global 162.6 (2014): 106-110. MasterFILE Elite. Internet. April 10, 2014. “Reality TV.” Problems and controversies recorded: n. page. Problems and controversies. Facts On File News Services, January 11, 2008. Web. April 14. 2014. .