Live Unplanned TV Events Take Viewers In Rude Directions

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Sorry, this column may be interrupted...  it could go off-script.

Two other recent live TV interruptions: The reporter from the conservative-minded Daily Caller who rudely interrupted Pres. Obama's speech on immigration. Then a couple of days later, a so-called bird-caller interjected himself into the victory interview of Wade Simpson after winning the U.S. Open.

My question: Why aren't there more disruptions during the live finales of "American Idol" or "The Voice"? Is security better at those places -- or are they just lame venues?

Sure, stuff can be edited out of popular TV series, especially for the West Coast feeds.  But we, the TV viewing public, actually wants the juxtaposition -- wardrobe malfunctions, slips of the tongue, and bad camera moves. This is the Internet world after all.

All this means TV etiquette is looking like a thing of the past.

Think of current TV and video content -- those seemingly hand-held, rough-looking, less-professional looking productions. We have the point-of-view type shows like "Modern Family, "The Office," as well as seemingly hundreds of reality shows, where actors/participants -- in routine segments -- can be found talking directly to viewers.

My prediction: the next phase of TV-video programming/content will have more planned interruptions or real interruptions, perhaps cameras dropping on the floor, landing at odd angles in view of a box of Kraft Mac and Cheese, a Nokia cell phone, or a General Motors car brand-of-your-choice keys. (TV marketers will always find a way in the door.)

When it comes to live press conferences, politicians and/or government officials get interrupted much more in other parts of the world. Take a look at the U.K. Houses of Parliament proceedings -- even the Prime Minister needs to shout down members of the opposition.

Real nonscripted TV in the U.S. has yet to hit its 2.0 level.

If this is the new behavior -- and respect for someone's completed thoughts and/or speeches are not even given their full due -- we'll become an even more polarized nation of pin-headed reactionaries. But look at the positives: We have a chance to hear the president putting on a brusque kibosh -- Hey, I'm speaking now! Ask questions later.

We dare to want to write and produce our own narrow-minded story-lines -- and taking center stage whenever the big cameras are rolling. And, in that arena, there will be quick but not long-lasting marketing opportunities for all.

As I was saying...

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1 comment on "Live Unplanned TV Events Take Viewers In Rude Directions".

1. Paula Lynn from Who Else Unlimited
   

   commented on: June 19, 2012 at 3:45 p.m.
   Reality check: Until we get a grip and certain unpleasant consequences for disruptive behavior - heavy fines, community service, loss of privileges, no press coverage, etc. - we will be bombarded with a selfish, mob rule mentality and actions leaving us in deeper blindness.

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