The reality TV bug is still going strong as Seattle's goodthings.com launches a nationwide search for television programming ideas this month. goodthings.com is looking for good reality TV: conflict,
drama, and raw ambition - but with a new twist.
Reality TV has taken hold of network executives and doesn't seem to be letting go. The future for reality TV looks promising: it’s inexpensive to make
and viewers love it (CBS's Survivor draws an estimated 11 million viewers each week, while its more controversial adversary on FOX, Temptation Island drew roughly 18.5 viewers for last week's
episode.)
But there has been a backlash. Temptation Island has had a hard time pulling advertisers who are reluctant to associate with the intent of the show: getting committed couples to cheat. But
while network executives struggle with how to bring more reality TV into our homes, goodthings.com is hoping to build a new trend within the genre.
goodthings.com wants to see all that energy put to
use for something good instead of one sole beneficiary. Like building a house for a homeless family, turning around the lives of troubled youth, building a community of friends in a new town or making
an independent film. Or what about sailing around the world or climbing a mountain? Let's face it, that's REAL reality-based TV - real people making a difference as a group or pursuing a shared
dream. - Anya Khait