Crazy Things You Didn’t Know About Reality Television

I’ve always been a fan of reality television. Over the past few years, I’ve really enjoyed shows like Survivor, Shark Tank, and America’s Got Talent. If you’re like me, you probably wonder what goes on behind the scenes of reality shows. It can’t all be unscripted, right? Today, we’ll be taking a look behind reality television into some of the craziest things you may not know about your favorite shows. 

• Singing Competitions Hunt for Sob Stories

We know that TV exaggerates things for the sake of a story. Without that, we wouldn’t be as emotionally invested in their characters and contestants. What you may not know, however, is that shows openly ask applicants to talk about the worst parts of their lives. According to an anonymous assailant from Buzzfeed, “I made it through a few rounds for a famous singing show, and they beg you for sob stories. On my very first application form, I was asked about the most difficult moment in my life, what obstacles I’d overcome to be there, and if I’d ever experienced bullying.”

• 90 Day Fiancé Couples don’t Get Paid

This year, 90 Day Fiancé captured audiences with the hilarious timeline between Big Ed and Rose. What you may not know, however, is that the stars of the show aren’t paid as much as you think. Radar Online writes that the cast members are paid between $1,000 to $1,500 per episode, amounting to nearly $15,000 per season. Even crazier, the co-star on a visa doesn’t receive ANY payment, as they don’t yet have a work permit. 

• Producers can Veto Elimination Decisions

On shows like America’s Got Talent, producers are the ones who call the shots. If they think that one contestant can create a better storyline, they have the power to put them through to the next round. 

• Pawn Stars deals are Pre-Planned

I LOVE this show, which made it even crazier to determine that sellers go through a pre-negotiation process before going into the shop. On top of that, the show’s stars don’t typically work in the store monthly. 

• Endings may not always be Real

On “Love it or List it,” the show records two different endings with the cast and then picks the one that looks better. In reality, the show’s conclusion might not be what ends up happening to the house. 

Although reality television may not be 100% genuine, we can all probably agree that it’s better that way. If the shows are great, the performances are excellent, regardless of whether it’s somewhat scripted or not.