Professionalism Ruining Reality TV?

I’m not a fan, but read that this season of American Idol is dull and boring. The reason for this? The contestants are simply too good, losing the show’s angle of giving a chance to the underdog amateur. Thinking about this a bit, maybe that’s why reality television shows, Top Chef and Dancing with the Stars, aren’t as entertaining as years past. The quality and professionalism of the contestants are simply ruining the shows.

I’ve complained that Top Chef Chicago just doesn’t have it this year. There’s a lot of swearing and some heated discussions, but nothing engaging, other than the judge’s quips and cleavage. This season’s chefs are supposedly the best ever. So is their professionalism the problem?

As Dancing with the Stars heads to its Finals, no one would have doubted the matchup of Kristi Yamaguchi and Jason Taylor. The inclusion of Cristian de la Fuente and two-time DWTS champ, Cheryl Burke, is not that surprising as the third Finals pair. But, with Kristi and Jason so far above the rest of the competitors, each show was predictable. First place, Kristi. Coming in a close second, Jason.

Season 6 of DWTS might have the best talent thus far which again goes back to making boring reality television. Crisitain’s injured bicep and his recent success is now causing some excitement, but the show was much more entertaining with the antics of Adam Carolla and even Steve Guttenberg’s parting Mango.

To succeed with the fans, do these reality shows have to “dumb down” the competition? Is having competitors that are too good, not good for the ratings? I just don’t know.

Is professionalism ruining reality TV?

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