Reality TV refers to a genre of television programming that purports to document unscripted real-life events, often featuring ordinary people rather than professional actors. These shows typically focus on personal drama, competition, and interpersonal relationships, with participants being filmed in various contexts, such as homes, workplaces, or exotic locations.
Reality TV can encompass a wide variety of formats, including talent competitions, dating shows, makeover shows, and lifestyle challenges. The genre gained widespread popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s, with shows like “Survivor,” “Big Brother,” and “The Real World” leading the way.
While marketed as “reality,” many reality TV programs employ scripting techniques, editing choices, and production strategies to enhance narrative structure and drama, blurring the lines between reality and entertainment. Viewers are drawn to the relatable content, and the format often sparks discussions about social issues, human behavior, and cultural norms. Reality TV has become a significant part of contemporary media, influencing popular culture and trends.