Reality television continues to captivate viewers across the country, and the trend is becoming all too ... real.
Casting calls for reality television have become a big deal to otherwise-average students across the country. For the upcoming season of MTV's original reality hit "Real World," directors have received over 25,000 applications alone.
The future is good for some of these applicants, and in time we'll see them starring in "Real World," along with hoards of other post-show promotions. But only an exceptional few of those who are cast will ever get to reap the benefits of prolonged stardom.
All of these reality stars will see their 15 minutes of fame, if not more, but after that time has passed their future becomes uncertain.
Reality television is nothing more than a rehashed version of Hollywood casting and success. Just as models compete to earn their place on a billboard and actors vie for their name in the screen credits, reality contestants are fighting for a chance to be recognized. And just like those models and actors, many will try but few will luck out.
That's the only true reality in show business: It's tough to stay in it.
It's important not to get caught up in the reality rush of present day television, especially without stepping back to really see what is happening. Some students might go as far as to see reality television casting as a way out of their current situation and into a more lucrative placement. But, bear in mind the lopsided odds that await those stars.
Being on reality television is not a golden ticket to success or fame. It is not something to hang all hopes on, even if you are lucky enough to be cast. As fast as notoriety can be obtained, it can just as quickly fade into the static of actual reality.
The safe thing for most of us is to stick to what we know best: real life.
At least that can't be canceled.
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