How to Find and Become a Contestant on a Television Reality Show

There are hundreds of reality shows in the planning, but not many of them get all the way to production, even then, often, the show is axed. A friend of mine made it to the final cut of a show where contestants put up their own money and play a survivor type game, but it was never picked up by a network. I can't even think of the name of the show anymore. Another acquaintance was selected for Fear Factor Couples and lasted over halfway through the show. A member of my friend's church was a finalist in a recent season of The Biggest Loser.

1. How do you find a reality show?
Finding possible reality shows is as simple as typing and clicking. Do a Google search on Reality Show Casting and you will find entries for just about everything you can think of. From a Jerry Seinfeld sitcom to fashion faux pas to family issues and everything in between. What did we do before the Internet?

2. How do you become a contestant?
Once you have found your area of expertise (or neediness) do some research on the show. Does it look promising? Is it intriguing enough to just go for and hope for the best? You will have to register with the Web Site that is promoting the show. Sometimes you can find open casting calls at a nearby location. For most, you will have to fill out a lengthy submission form accompanied by a video and be willing to undergo an extensive background check. Yep, background check. You see, if the producer(s) are legitimate and the show has a chance of becoming reality (pun intended) the backers of the show want to make sure you are who you say you are and there will be no surprises later. They want to be the only ones with surprises.

Make sure you show the camera a lot of personality and uniqueness when filming your application video.  If you are too quiet or shy, the production staff won't seriously consider you.

3. What you can expect
Expect this to be a lengthy process. Most shows have a submission time line of about a year. Then, after all applications have been accepted, expect to wait several more months before you are notified, if you are selected. Expect to be away from job, family and friends for several weeks. Of course, you will be without your source of income for that same period of time. Expect to be on display, even if it is a part of your life you wouldn't want revealed. Remember, the shows are somewhat scripted and the producers want to give the viewing audience a reason to tune in. Unfortunately, while we cheer on the underdog, often, we don't want to miss the participants squirming.

A friend of mine made it to the final cut of a show where contestants put up their own money and play a survivor type game, but it was never picked up by a network. I can't even think of the name of the show anymore. Another acquaintance was selected for Fear Factor Couples and lasted over halfway through the show. A member of my friend's church was a finalist in a recent season of The Biggest Loser. If you look hard enough, you will find a reality show that fits you. The contestants are real people with real talents and struggles. If being a contestant is something you dream of doing, go for it! How many people can say they have done it. Your personality, stamina, needs and drive just might be what makes you a winner.