I’m A Blockhead, Gogglebox Me Outta My Kitchen!

Hi, my name is Elizabeth, and I’m a reality TV addict.

For years, I’ve been in denial. Trying to convince myself that I’m only watching to ridicule the shows, or so I can keep up to date with current events. But the truth is, I’m an addict. A Blockhead, a (Biggest) Loser, an MKR-er.

If I have one consolation, it’s that I’m not alone in this struggle. These television programs are reliably among the most-viewed in Australia, and new additions like Gogglebox and I’m a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here suggest that the popularity of the genre is far from waning.

What’s the appeal? Part of it is good old-fashioned human curiosity for one’s neighbour. These shows offer value via an intimate window into others’ lives, though producers often play up stereotypes of participants in promotional material to enhance the emotional appeal.

Moreover, many shows involve a public voting element or encourage fan participation on social media, highlighting the importance of personalities in drawing audiences. In doing so, of course, we as viewers buy into a mass delusion – the polished product that reaches our television screens is the result of selective editing and thus, far from reality. (Also, as an Australian Story report revealed last year, contestants are often under intense physical and emotional pressure.)

Yet despite these concerns, the lure of reality TV remains. And that’s just the problem: it’s hard to make an argument for any kind of value to these programs, yet the habit is hard to shake. So perhaps it’s time for a reality TV cleanse. A week, or month, or year free of my guilty indulgence. I’ll start right after this episode of My Kitchen Rules is over.

Congratulations to Elizabeth for winning this writing challenge. Elizabeth wins a $50 Westfield gift card. For your chance to win, check out our latest writing challenges in our Comps section.