I thought I'd seen everything that reality TV could throw at me...programs offering a platform to showcase hidden talent along with disillusioned wannabees we the viewers all love to mock and ridicule or B list celebrities thrown together in a tropical jungle facing their fears not just by wrestling with snakes and spiders but spending any length of time in close proximity with former "I'm a Celebrity get me out of here" contestant, Janice Dickinson would make chewing on kangaroo testicles as easy as eating marshmallows! Along with a multitude of other "fly on the wall" shows what next in the realm of so called "reality" TV?"Once a prostitute always a prostitute" is not the title of a new reality show but the opinion of a male resident of Lusaka, Zambia in response to hearing about the new TV show which has been launched by Zambian TV to help "former" prostitutes find a husband. " it is very difficult for them to just change overnight" he concluded. What!!?? Faced with the prospect of a husband, roof over their heads and food in their mouths does this man really think a former prostitute would turn it down preferring to live a life thwart with danger, self loathing and shame?
"Ready for Marriage" is the new reality TV show which involves18 sex workers who stand to win a cash prize of $9000 and have their wedding paid for. They have been taken from the streets in different parts of the country and the program makers claim that "we want to make a difference to these women's lives. These are people after all". Really? Nothing to do with pretty much guaranteeing huge audience figures then? The viewers participate by voting off contestants every week. Those contestants get a consolation prize of $1000 - $1500 and help in finding a full time job so that they do not return to prostitution....very commendable.
But why a TV show? Why make a parody of a very serious issue with sensationalism if it's not for monetary gain? Exploiting these women's misfortune. What happens to all the other prostitutes not chosen? Are they lining up hoping to be picked for series 2 or 3, until then do they remain prostitutes in order to one day qualify?
Forget the camera, lights, action and lose the cabaret...if the sentiment was genuine then the TV company should donate money to set up a support network for these women. They could then film the progress and success stories.
And what of the potential husband? Is it a wife he's really looking for...??
Hi GEM,
ReplyDeleteWell said and yes, it beggars belief that they would make such a parody out of such a serious subject. I wholeheartedly agree with you that a genuine sentiment would be that the TV company did indeed set up a support network for those ladies.
Of course, in the cynical world of television, they'd rather sensationalism, because they assume that's what the public wants. Very sad, indeed.
A thought provoking article and let's hope that a potential husband is looking for someone to have a sincere, loving, respectful relationship, with. You never know.
Take very good care, GEM.
With respect and kind wishes, your way, Gary.
Where do I begin?. I've never heard of this before, but it's insane what they'll put on television these days. If the contestants on the bachelor can't make it work, there's no way these contestants can!. Great post dear.
ReplyDelete-Julie. littlepinkrainboots.blogspot.com
Wow, that was a DEEP blog, what were you drinking when you wrote that one. Maybe they should make the show "The price is right!" and line up the prostitutes. Only for Channel 4 though I reckon. x
ReplyDeleteJodie
Hi Gary
ReplyDeleteI'd like to watch it actually just to find out how this would play out. How would the contestants be judged and what tasks would they have to perform?
Would there be a UK equivalent ever?
Take Care
GEM
Hi Julie
ReplyDeleteYes it is insane and makes you wonder how far TV companies will go to get high ratings. Unfortunately, as long as people watch the programmes will continue.
Thanks for stopping by ;)
Take Care
GEM
Hi Jodie
ReplyDeleteSo comparing time spent with Janice Dickison to chewing on kangaroo testacles is deep?
Seriously though, if I'd been drinking I would have probably written more of a ridiculing post. Love your idea of a "Price is Right"! :)
Take Care
GEM