Make Over

After class on Tuesday I began thinking about how it is fairly typical for any television show (whether a series or a talk show) to begin with a problem and fight for or seek out resolution for the duration of the show itself. This idea of self transformation is the key aspect to understand in make over TV.

It appears most often that the "privileged" people on the show (host) provide what is required in order for an individual to take the next step in their life. The set up is conventional, the host is mixed between the audience and the guest, but the guest and audience are set on two different platforms - further separating the needy from the general public (physically not just emotionally).

People voluntarily put themselves on stage in front of millions of viewers. This proves that their problems are being presented for more than the therapy the expert is providing, but to actually publicize the matter. This can be to provide knowledge in a subject that is often disregarded. Or it can be to send a message that the sometimes uncomfortable topic is okay to talk about, that others are not alone. 

Oprah is the best example of all of these things. The most influential thing about her talk show over the years is the ability or attempt she had to identify with her guests. This not only opened up her guests but also made an emotional connection between Oprah, interviewed, and audience.

She is so very popular, but as Peck says its not just about what she says, we have to look deeper. It is easy to see what a major impact she has had on her viewers, however it is very hard to see how powerful she is in these transformations.

I think the biggest appeal in Oprah's talk show was that we had real insight into her life. She had struggles (with weight , etc.) and we as viewers were invited to encourage and be along her side the entire time. This to me is extraordinary because it isn't common.