Real-Time Reality: Networks’ New Shows Increasingly Treat TV Like ‘Hunger Games’
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In the post-apocalyptic world of the “Hunger Games,” people sit glued to their TV sets watching children literally battle to the death. They cheer for their favorites and even send them supplies to help bolster their chance for survival.
While author Suzanne Collins created the “Hunger Games” in part as a satire, mocking our fascination with reality TV, broadcast and cable channels are taking a cue from the popular book-to-movie trilogy. And while no one will actually die in any of these shows (not yet, anyway) contestants’ fates are increasingly being left up to the audience.
From Discovery Channel to ABC, the newest slate of reality shows are looking to engage viewers beyond just voting for contestants. The hope is these shows will create must-see moments that people will want to watch live, a win for both networks and advertisers.
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