Like everywhere, French television has really gone for reality shows over the past decade. They don’t cost a lot to produce and attract a relatively large audience. The private television channels are the main broadcasters to put on this type of show, as public television has largely considered them to be inconsistent with their mission of public service.
As Secret Story is just getting started on TF1, I figured I’d give you a quick rundown of the major reliaty series on French TV. The list is by no means exhaustive.
Secret Story
The French equivalent of Big Brother, but with a twist: each contestant has a secret they must guard jealously for as long as possible. Everyone tries to figure out everyone else’s secret before their target is voted off the show during the weekly vote, as revealing someone else’s secret gains you their alloted jackpot.
http://www.tf1.fr/secret-story/
Nouvelle Star
The French equivalent of American Idol, or Pop Idol. I assume you know what those are. The most recent series just finished, and the winner was ex-Métro busker Soan.
Un Dîner Presque Parfait
A weekly series on M6 where each of five candidates invites the four others for a meal. The contestants rate each other on the ambiance, the decor, and quality of the food. What did you expect from the food-loving French?
http://undinerpresqueparfait.m6.fr/
L’amour est dans le pré
Another series popular with the French, who have a thing for their agricultural traditions. It’s a dating series that follows the attempts of French farmers to woo city ladies.
http://www.m6.fr/emission-l_amour_est_dans_le_pre/
KohLanta
The French equivalent of Survivor, but who knows if TF1 will continue to broadcast it, as its ratings are slipping.
What’s you’re favourite French reality show? Is there a reality show you like in your home country and are wondering if there’s an equivalent? Let us know in the comments!
Recent Comments