Reality TV Shows : A wake-up call for the youth 

Reality TV shows have conquered the small screen with their various approaches to attract the youth. Following the trends of internationally acclaimed reality shows such as The American Idol, Sri Lanka too has stepped in to this business while giving ample opportunities for the youth to showcase their talents. Over the years, many talented youngsters had had the opportunity to perform their various talents in front of professional judge panels as a stepping stone to a brighter future. Is this a good move for the youth? Or will they misuse their fame afterwards? The Daily Mirror Life spoke to a few individuals to listen to their opinions on this trend.

Chandani

I think shows like Derana Dream Star and Sirasa Superstar have brought out the hidden talents of the youth in remote areas.

Udeshika

As long as they don’t forget their roots it is a good opportunity for the youth.

Asham

Some of them find different avenues although they come only to sing or dance. Therefore the exposure they get is quite good.

Mohomed

Sometimes they have a tendency to think of themselves as stars and then even come to politics because that is a common trend that we see nowadays. I think they should know their true capacities before trying to reach higher limits.

Nipuni

It’s a good opportunity for the youth.

Most popular reality TV shows from around the world 

1. American Idol

2. The Amazing Race

3. Face Off – special effects make-up artists from around the country come together to compete to see who has the best skills out there.

4. Hell’s Kitchen - Aspiring young chefs are put to the ultimate challenge in Hell's Kitchen, a reality television competition starring world renowned chef Gordon Ramsay.

5. Keeping Up with the Kardashians - In the sixth season of their hit reality show, the Kardashian clan strives to put family first.

6. 19 Kids & Counting - Childhood sweethearts Jim Bob and Michelle see children as gifts, and after over 20 years of marriage, they have received 19 gifts of ten boys and nine girls.

7. The Voice - Four celebrity artists each will form teams of singers that they will coach and mentor throughout the competition.

8. Deadliest Catch - The Bering Sea holds the secret to Alaskan Gold, the highly lucrative and elusive…King Crab. With a new set of rules to abide by, the ships and the crews will have new deadlines, more stress, and more dangerous conditions.

9. America’s Next Top Model - Created by world-renowned supermodel Tyra Banks, who executive produces the series with Ken Mok, America's Next Top Model chronicles the transformation of everyday young women into potentially fierce supermodels.

10. COPS - Now known as the original reality series, COPS hit the airwaves in early 1989, putting camera crews in police cars all across the United States.

By Kamanthi Wickramasinghe
Photographs by Waruna Wanniarachchi