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24 Feb 2025 17:04
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  •   Home > News > Entertainment

    Is reality TV ‘harmful’? We asked 5 experts – including an ex-reality TV participant

    People often talk about reality TV in terms of how ‘trashy’ it is, and how it might be considered ‘guilty’ viewing. But is there any evidence of harm taking place?

    Noor Gillani, Digital Culture Editor
    The Conversation


    Reality TV – love it or hate it, there’s no denying it’s addictive. From explosive arguments to over-the-top love triangles, it can be hard to look away. But is all this drama just for fun, or might it do more harm – to watchers and participants – than we realise?

    We asked five experts, and most of them said it might, especially when it comes to promoting negative body image and leaving contestants emotionally scarred.

    But one expert argued reality TV is a valuable form of entertainment overall, which reflects modern culture and sparks important conversations.

    Here are their detailed responses:

    The Conversation

    This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license.
    © 2025 TheConversation, NZCity

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     Today's News

    Boxing:
    A mixture of frustration and determination for boxer Joseph Parker as he contemplates one more fight before getting his shot to become a two-time heavyweight world champion 16:57

    Entertainment:
    Leighton Meester has joined the cast of 'Nobody Wants This' 16:43

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    A selection puzzle tonight for the Black Caps ahead of game two in the Champions Trophy against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi 16:37

    Rugby:
    The Black Ferns Sevens have flexed their muscles to claim the Vancouver world series event in emphatic fashion 16:27

    Business:
    Retailers are hoping a sales rebound means an industry uptick has begun 16:17

    Entertainment:
    Kate Hudson is convinced her son Ryder is destined for stardom 16:13

    National:
    James Bond is now controlled by Amazon – the franchise’s history holds clues to the future of 007 16:07

    Law and Order:
    US backs Israel's decision to delay Palestinian prisoners release as first IDF troops move into West Bank since 2002 16:07

    Entertainment:
    Nicolas Cage's lawyer has branded his ex-wife's negligence lawsuit "absurd and frivolous" 15:43

    Entertainment:
    Grimes has begged Elon Musk to get in touch about a "medical crisis" with one of their children 15:13


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