Is PR Killing Reality TV?
When people are first starting out on reality TV, they aren’t as worried about their image because they typically don’t have experience in the public eye or what comes along with keeping your reputation clean for future opportunities. With the growing power of people’s opinions on social media and “canceled culture,” is PR killing reality TV and not allowing people to be their true authentic selves?
“Keeping up with the Kardashians” aired on the E! Network in 2007 after Kim Kardashian made headlines for a scandal involving Ray J earlier that year. When the show first started, the Kardashians were such an open book on television that you practically knew everything about them, regardless if they wanted you to know or not, because they weren’t in charge of their narrative.
As the years grew by and the Kardashians became more than just a reality TV name, they were able to completely withdraw from being on a show they had no control over and create a new show. With “The Kardashians,” they are able to control the narrative they want to put out there. I mean how do you go from Kourtney Kardashian’s toxic moments with Scott Disick all over the air to Kylie Jenner being able to keep a nine-month pregnancy under wraps with zero press-leaks. R.I.P Khlomoney, PR ruined you.
“Jersey Shore” came on MTV in 2009 and brought in six strangers to live in a shared house on the beach of New Jersey. When the cast joined, they weren’t aware the show was going to be as successful as it was, and social media definitely wasn’t what it is now. The show did amazing because they were being themselves and eventually their personalities became the brand. But if the show hadn’t done well, their images would’ve essentially been tarnished forever. I mean, could you imagine Snooki walking into an office environment for an interview after her “where’s the beach” incident on NATIONAL television.
In today’s time, people are going into reality TV prepared for the fame, the brand deals and are focused on protecting their image. They don’t want to be too problematic in fear of people hating them or they spend half the time trying to self-promote themselves or their business, (Yes housewives I am looking at you).
On shows like “Love Island,” contestants are going on because they know the ratings are up and the following you gain is astronomical, but you go in trying to be likeable rather than being yourself. Contestants are also always on their toes in fear that they are getting cancelled outside of the villa, so viewers don’t get to see their TRUE personalities. Maybe PR isn’t directly killing reality TV, but it is definitely making people think twice about being their authentic selves on camera in fear of how the public may view them or react.
Bio: Elizabeth Tirheimer is a public relations student graduating in spring 2027 from Cal State University, Northridge. Elizabeth is passionate for anything pop culture or entertainment, as well as creative storytelling. She sees creativity as a big part in her life and feels there are so many different ways and outlets to apply that to in public relations. Elizabeth is also a long-distance runner, which has taught her about being disciplined, patient and putting in the work to stay committed and accomplish long-term goals. She hopes to combine all her passions for entertainment and creativity in the PR world and find ways to connect to a variety of audiences.