Celebrities in fundraising

It seems like television is going to all extremes to increase viewership. After creating identical reality tv shows, they are now tapping into human interest shows that focus on helping others. I found it ironic after reading some of the posts about the comedy show to find an article that disagreed. The articles stated that few americans give in response to celebrity pitches.The Harris Poll reported that only 15 percent of respondents in the survey said they had supported a cause or requested more information about it because of something they heard a celebrity say or do. What’s more, 51 percent said that celebrities make little or no “positive difference” on the charitable issues they promote.

I found these numbers striking, because someone MUST be giving to these organizations promoted by celebrities or they wouldn’t be doing it. Of course a little publicity never hurts anyone.
And get excited, NBC is now planning on airing a show about a billionaire philanthropist dedicated to helping others in need. Man, I can’ t wait until Grey’s Anatomy is back on…..

Oprah’s Big Give-A positive

After watching the ABC show, “Oprah’s Big Give,” I became hooked on yet another reality t.v. show. Through out the past I’ve watched Survivor and The Amazing Race, but became bored with them after a while. I believe this show could be a great inspiration for our society. This is one of the few reality shows that involves people working towards helping others rather than themselves.  After all, most reality shows have a million dollar prize or a rich celebrity to win/fall in love with. All of these contestants auditioned to be on the show without ever asking what was in it for them.  These people really do care about giving back, and I believe this is great turning point in reality t.v. The process in which these contestant raise money for people in need within 5 days is definitely eye-opening, especially since  it shows how  normal people can make a difference in others’ lives. I can’t wait for next week’s show!