Lifetime's UnReal Commits to Accurate Portrayal of Reality TV's Pitfalls

Lifetime television network is hardly taken seriously for its self-produced content. Shows like Dance Moms and Devious Maids present tropes that are easily dismissed. But Lifetime shocked viewers with its phenomenal new show, UnReal. UnReal portrays the behind the scenes process of fictional-reality tv show, Ever After (an homage to The Bachelor.) UnReal's accomplishment lies not in its story line or acting, but in its accurate portrayal of the cruel manipulation of reality romance television. UnReal, much like The Bachelor promises female contestants an everlasting love. Unlike The Bachelor, however, UnReal shows the vicious cycle of female competition, body shaming, and exploitation that remains behind the scenes of The Bachelor. Hopefully shows will continue to follow in UnReal's footsteps, encouraging viewers of reality tv to think for themselves, and not buy what is shoved in their faces.