by Alba Galvan

As a Latina woman who loves chisme — gossip, for my non-Spanish speakers —  you can only imagine how intrigued I was when my roommate, Violet Nunez-Rojas, introduced me to reality TV this semester. 

At first, I was confused as to why people would enjoy watching a day-to-day show with the same characters and plot line. But then, I found myself two episodes deep into Jersey Shore and I was instantly hooked. Then, after only three days, I managed to consume up to four seasons. I was addicted. 

“I think I like reality TV because it’s real. They didn’t censor anything, it was all raw, real human emotions back then,” Nunez-Rojas said. 

Shows like Love Island and Survivor, where a new episode is released every day, are what draw people in. Classics, like Keeping up with the Kardashians, The Real Housewives and Jersey Shore are the juicy shows filled with the best drama and raw, real emotion.

I feel like what really pulls viewers in is watching the relatable emotions of reality TV characters and getting to watch it all play out from the comfort of our own homes. I’ve come to realize that my For You Page on TikTok is filled with influencer drama, specifically streamers. 

The only thing I dislike about watching streamers is that they can be on for up to five hours — sometimes longer — and only 30 minutes of it will be entertaining. At that point, I’d rather watch clips on TikTok with all the comments filling me in on the gossip. 

In a way, it’s like streamers took the concept of day-to-day reality TV into their own hands, broadcasting their daily lives to viewers. Popular streamers like Wendy Ortiz, Neon, Kai Cenat, and many others give viewers a constant scope into  their lives. Streams are usually free with a few ads here and there depending on what platform they use — typically Twitch — but many viewers pay streamers as a form of supporting someone who regularly entertains them, like a subscription. Viewers feel a connection with streamers this way. It helps streamers interact with their audience by reading comments and sharing parts of their daily lives. For some viewers, it also brings a sense of belonging within the streamer community. 

Jaleena Alvarado is a student at Loyola Marymount University majoring in forensic science. She often spends her time watching streamers because of its authenticity.

“You’re seeing people react in real time, build communities, and create spaces where viewers feel included instead of just entertained,” Alvarado said. “Having a blend of social connection and entertainment makes it more immersive.” 

I think both reality TV and streaming are interesting concepts, especially because of how many views they attract, and I am one of those viewers. I love my drama, and they both equally supply me with it. 

Alba she/her, LumberJack reporter. Journalism major who loves to read and write. She’s very passionate about sharing and listening to different opinions and loves self-expression. Contact email: agg83@humboldt.edu