MTV’s The Real World produced by Mary-Ellis
Bunim and Jonathan Murray is the longest running series in MTV history. The
series depicts issues spanning from sexuality to substance and drug abuse,
prejudice, AIDS. In recent years the series has obtained a reputation for
showcasing irresponsible, immature behavior. The Real World focuses on the lives of a group of strangers, who
live together in a house (different locations), as cameras record every moment
of their lives and interpersonal relationships. As you stated the show always
depicts a devout religious person-whether they are Christian, Mormon. Producers
always find a way to incorporate politics and religion to stir controversy. For
example in The Real World Los Angeles housemate
Jon Brennan engaged in a dispute with roommate Tami Roman over the topic of
abortion. Another example of controversial debates over religion are seen in
the Sydney season, where Dunbar infuriates Parisa and Trisha due to his
comments about Jesus and the Bible. The series even captures the fight between
an atheist roommate and Christian roommates (Real World Washington D.C)
I agree that the show
depicts religious people as quirky and anti-social (which is definitely
presented in the Real World Las Vegas through Michael Ross). The example of
Julie from the Real World New Orleans is a great example. Raised in a strict
Mormon household Julie wasn’t allowed to watch MTV and on a whim she auditioned
for the show. Throughout the season Julie is depicted as coming to terms with
the outside world, which is very different from her home and religious
upbringing. As you said her religion is somewhat ridiculed on the show and of
course it serves as entertainment for viewers (which is seen with the questions
about drinking Coke, marriage and dating). Introducing various religious sects
into one household adds entertainment through contrasting beliefs and eventual
disagreements due to a clash in beliefs.
The portrayal of
Christianity in the Real World: Las Vegas is interested (as seen with Michael
Ross). As you said Michael Ross did not have typical Catholic upbringings. As
you said his parents were heavily involved with drugs and served time in jail,
which led to him moving in with his grandparents. He describes himself as a
nerd, world hunger solution advocate and outspoken Libertarian. He refers to
himself as a strong Catholic and attended Catholic school. It is interesting he
openly admits he lost his virginity and has the same Catholic morals. As a
result of his strong beliefs, he is often found fighting another roommate, as
he doesn’t agree with his actions, or past mistakes (Dustin Zito). Zito is
another interesting character. He describes his Pentecostal upbringing and
beliefs preventing him from playing sports, obtaining certain jobs, dealing
with drugs, etc. Despite religious upbringings, Zito worked in the pornography
industry (this caused controversy in the household due to varying beliefs
especially with strict Catholic Mike).
As stated in the article “Television
Our Constant Companion”, producers love reality series because they are cheap
to produce and attract an impressionable audience, which is why The Real World
is an ideal series. As you stated the differences between characters and their
strict labels, religious and political beliefs are preferred as it creates
controversy and ultimately a great form of entertainment for viewers.
The Real World: Las Vegas trailer:
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