Reality Television and The Art of Business Models
I believe most people would agree that reality television sucks. Then why do we continue to see shitty reality television premise after shitty reality television premise?
Because even though from the artistic perspective it sucks (the part inside of all of that makes us care about a story, a painting, a song…) as a business model, reality television makes a whole lot of sense.
Here are some reasons why:
It gives people what they want, not what they need.
People need to be informed. People need to know how the world’s events are affecting their lives. Knowing these things, by watching BBC or CNN or surfing the web for relevant articles adds value to your life.
Flavor of Love and Rock of Love won’t add value to anyone’s life. In fact, it’s a leech of brain cells, time, and dignity for everyone involved. It doesn’t provide anyone with anything they need.
But it provides them with what they want: pure, unadulterated entertainment.
It’s low cost.
Putting together a television series costs serious money: besides fronting the money the production (a common cost for any television show) you pay your quality actors, your writers, producers, directors, etc.
In a reality series, you’ve thrown out the actors. You don’t have to hire from the greatest talent pool of writers - someone with a decent idea and a degree from Phoenix University Online will suffice. And how much direction is needed to create that all important element: conflict?
“Uh, tell us what you think about that skanky bitch, Rachael, and why you think she’s a whore, okay? If you remember to plug the T-Mobile Sidekick while you’re at it, that’d be wonderful, too.”
It can be replicated. Until infinity.
Are you really worried divorce will end your favorite TLC guilty-pleasure, Jon and Kate Plus Eight?
Don’t be - TLC’s got quite the contingency plan on its hands.
What is The Bachelorette doesn’t find true love in her reality television show about finding true love?
Well, she’s always got a second shot. On The Bachelorette 13.
To be frank, the Real World just doesn’t seem so real anymore after the 22nd season, you know?
I could continue, ad nauseum, but I’m losing brain cells fast.
Will these shows stand the test of time, like true efforts at art? Probably (hopefully?) not.
At a certain level, though, we have to appreciate the art form (and it is an art form) of creating a business model out of what was once considered art.
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