Reality television is one of the defining genres of the 21st century. It is shown worldwide, features people from all walks of life and covers everything from romance to religion. It has not only changed television, but every other area of the media. So why has reality TV become such a huge phenomenon, and what is its future in an age of streaming and social media? This book provides an overview of key theories and debates in the study of reality television and discusses industry practices in their global and national contexts. Deller also explores, through interviews with participants and analyses of key programmes, why people take part in reality TV, how they are represented and impact this has on their lives. From its documentary roots to its social media present and future - this is a guide to Reality Television: The TV Phenomenon that Changed the World.

Why is our world the way it is, right now? SocietyNow presents the best academic expertise examining key events, trends and phenomenon of current times. Readable, accessible and digestible commentary on the most complex and defining topics of the 21st Century. Written by leading experts in their fields and published when the issues are a focal point across the globe, titles in the series offer a thoughtful and concise response to the major political and economic events and social and cultural trends of our time. Titles included in this set: The Trump Phenomenon: How the Politics of Populism Won in 2016; Becoming Digital: Toward a Post-Internet Society; Understanding Brexit: Why Britain Voted to Leave the European Union; Selfies: Why We Love (and Hate) Them; Internet Celebrity: Understanding Fame Online; Corbynism: A Critical Approach; The Smart City in a Digital World; Kardashian Kulture: How Celebrities Changed Life in the 21st Century; Reality Television: The TV Phenomenon that Changed the World;