Despite forecasts of its demise, there is no evidence of a let-up in the epidemic of reality TV. And a very grim reality it is. Minor celebrities munch bugs in jungles. Twentysomethings titillate viewers by cavorting in showers and baths.
Why are such TV shows so fascinating to so many people? What does this say about how fulfilled people's lives are if all they can talk about is what's happening in Big Brother?
The age range for participation is getting lower. The documentary Girls Alone filmed girls aged 10 and 11 in a house for a week. A 14-year-old from Scotland has just finished filming a gruelling show in the African desert. And the producers of Big Brother are planning to make a version of the show for teenage contestants. What problems might emerge? Should teenagers be encouraged to expose themselves in this way? How might it affect their lives? Or public perception and understanding of young people?
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