The concept of attention currency has long been a driving force behind reality TV's success. By commodifying viewing habits, networks can gauge what's popular and captivating. In the early days of reality TV, this translated to high ratings from millions of viewers tuning in for dramatic storylines. However, with the rise of social media, the way we discuss and engage with reality TV has undergone a significant shift.
Today, online discussions and debates about reality TV shows like "Love Island USA" have become a major aspect of their success. The show's seventh season, in particular, has sparked intense internet chatter, with fan-favorite couples like Nicolandria and Chellace gaining devoted followings. The show's popularity has also attracted a star-studded viewership, cementing its place as a reality TV obsession.
However, a disturbing trend has emerged between Seasons 6 and 7... with the fandom veering into toxic territory. The show's producers have had to intervene, "issuing a statement reminding viewers to be kind and respectful towards contestants." According to a report by HuffPost, "the show's popularity has led to a surge in online discourse.".. highlighting the need for a more considerate and empathetic approach to reality TV fandom.
Reality shows, like almost all television programming, have always thrived on attention currency: the idea that our viewing habits can be commodified into a measure of what's hot, popular and worthy of our precious time.At reality TV's genesis, that looked like network ratings from millions of viewers tuning in for appointment television week after week for, in most cases, the juicy drama they couldn't get enough of. Nowadays, though, those ratings are more contingent upon onscreen drama sparking discussions, and not just in our homes, group chats and at the office watercooler.
Instead, conversations have shifted to places like social media, which are designed to fuel TV gossip discourse (the good and the bad) for a much wider, more engaged, and, dare I say, obsessed audience.
