Wed:01-10-2008

- Sean Combes On Lookout For Solo Star

Reality TV Is Alive And Well...

Despite the 'end being nigh' according by television critics, audiences continue to lap up reality TV with gusto.  Flip through TV channels at will at any time of day, and your chances of spotting participants pitted against eachother in crooning/dancing/dating competition shows are invariably high. 

Reality shows are a solid staple, the meat and veg if you like, on our television. And while there is still room for drama and sitcom productions, reality TV really has become the phenomenon of the naughties. 

With relatively cheaper production costs, consistently high ratings, and the avenue for audience interactivity, it's seems to be a win win for everyone involved (except for the contestent who got biffed in the first episode). 

There is no need to pay writers or actors, no endless rehearsals, no need for elaborate sets, and no need for rights clearance for music, and no matter what context it is in (dating, survival, business, talent, or voyeurism) reality shows continue to score rating goals. 

So it's no surprise the likes of ever- enterprising Sean 'Diddy' Combes is launching yet another reality show in a bid to find the next big cash cow, er we mean star. 

The Bad Boy Records boss has already enjoyed success with his MTV Making The Band series, which has spawned groups like Danity Kane and Day26. 

Budding singers have never had it so good, or had so many opportunities to get in the faces of those who can make or break their career.   While there are the chosen few who do make the transition from reality TV to the real world, (Jordin Sparks, Kelly Clarkson, and yes, Danity Kane) there is still the question of whether reality TV contestants can actually carve a career post reality-exploits.

But despite all the detractors, it appears Diddy has every confidence in the reality formula, and has already begun development on a program to find the next solo superstar. 

He's teamed up with producer Mark Burnett, the brains behind The Apprentice and Survivor, for the show which will be called StarMaker.  According to starpulse.com, the program has been given the go-ahead by MTV US and will debut on the network in 2009.

While the proven success of reality shows is undeniable, finding bona fide stars whose reality ratings translate into chart success is a little more of an erratic affair.  One thing is for sure, we can never accuse the Diddstar of not making hay while the sun shines!

By Penelope Quinn

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