Why I hate reality TV

Ever since people figured out what Reality TV was years ago, I’ve disliked it. I’m sure that my opinion isn’t the most valid since I barely watch any TV at all (and for some reason I’m a little proud of that), but I’m not really trying to convince anyone else that they don’t enjoy it, because that would be silly. It has, however, taken me a long time to put my finger on what bothers me about it.

As far as I can tell, reality TV is spectacle. These shows are based on human conflict and competition derived from ridiculous social stereotypes.

While as a comedian I have to appreciate the humor of stereotypes in general, it’s hardly spectacle. In fact, when you boil it down, reality TV is basically a half-hour of people being either dumb or annoying. And I get really impatient with both of those things, especially when I feel like people are in fact smarter than that.

As a result, I get impatient with reality TV. It’s not entertaining to watch; it’s just annoying. It’s a half-hour of me going “come on!” and grinding my teeth.

No thank you.