4 Things Nobody Told You About Types Of Reality TV

Hey everyone! We’re back with another blog of Behind the Reality to talk about the world of reality television.

Today, this blog will be talking about multiple types of reality television. Some reality TV lovers might know all about Love Island or The Bachelor because they are fans of dating shows. Some might watch Keeping Up With The Kardashians on the weekly. Others might enjoy watching Survivor or a cooking show.

Whatever it might be, reality TV is more than just one subject or plot to watch. There are a number of different genres including dating/romance, family-oriented, game, and lifestyle.

Let's discuss the captivating world of Reality TV and why its diverse genres are the heartbeat of our entertainment.

1. Dating shows are rarely about true love.

In the world of reality TV, we would think these shows would be real and genuine since the show is not heavily scripted and planned out like normal television and movies. Dating shows are one of the genres of reality TV! We would think that dating on reality TV would be a quest for love and connection. It can be; however, sometimes it’s for drama, fame, and chaos! Shows like The Bachelor, Love Island, and 90 Day Fiancé can offer a rollercoaster of emotions and keep us guessing till the final episode.

Each dating show has its own twist on how it is produced. Usually, this type of show has a time limit where they are on the show with an elimination element. There are multiple shows that bring people on and make people leave overtime to mix up the dating circle.

I wouldn’t say that finding romance is impossible on these shows, but it’s definitely rare!

2. Family-oriented shows do not represent most families in reality.

Family-oriented reality TV is another genre that is popular. There are plenty of families that have become famous due to having a camera follow around their daily life. One of the most well-known TV shows of all time, Keeping Up With the Kardashians, is an example of family life reality TV. But of course, it’s on the upper hand of wealth and prestige. Most family life TV follows unique families, not the everyday family.

Usually, there is something unique about the family like having ten kids, having multiple sets of twins, one of the kids being a social media star, and more uncommon family dynamics.

I guess if it’s not unique, it’s not worth making a TV show about it!

3. Game shows hide the fact that it is all about the reward in the end.

Game shows are known for the competitive nature and determination to win. From talent extravaganzas like American Idol to high-stakes cooking battles in MasterChef, they fuel our competitive spirit, celebrate raw talent, and inspire us to chase our dreams.

There are usually a number of set contestants that participate in a challenge or competition with judges and mentors helping them through their experience. Usually, there is a point system, voting by the public, and the decisions by the judges.

However, besides gaining fame from being on the show, there is usually a huge reward like money, a record label, or contract with a popular company. This type of reality TV show always comes with an incentive besides just doing it for the win.

The journey is just as important as the reward!

4. Lifestyle shows are the least realistic.

For lifestyle, there are shows that can inspire lifestyle choices including culinary delights from Top Chef. They can provide a relaxing escape and ignite our creative sparks. Adventure and Travel can also be shown in reality TV such as The Amazing Race take us on global adventures, inspiring wanderlust and showcasing the beauty of our planet.

There are other lifestyle shows based on constructing and fixing up houses including Tiny House Nation, Fixer Upper, Love It Or List It, and other home renovation shows. Not only are there home renovation shows, but there are shows based on constructing pools, tree houses, travel vans, and so on.

However, most of these shows are produced in a short period of time, so the shows do not represent a normal lifestyle among the general public.

What's your favorite Reality TV genre, and why? Share your thoughts below in the comments!

See you next week!

Next week, the upcoming blog will talk about how people are recruited to go on Reality TV shows and their motivation for joining the show.

Stay tuned and follow our social media on Instagram (@behindrealityblog) and Twitter (@behindrealityb). See you next week!