Former Real Housewives of New York star, Bethenny Frankel, is questioning why reality TV hasn’t unionized amidst the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA double strike and the increased reliance on reality TV by networks. Frankel, who starred in the Bravo reality franchise for eight seasons before leaving in 2019, took to Instagram to express her concerns.
In her video post, Frankel revealed that she was only paid $7,250 for her “first season of reality TV.” She called for reality stars to stop filming until their free content is taken down, arguing that networks and streamers should not be able to profit from stars without acknowledging the cultural and financial impact of reality shows. Frankel emphasized that she has never received any residuals from her work on reality TV, and questioned whether reality stars are being unfairly compensated.
Frankel specifically highlighted the issue of residuals and cited examples of reality stars like Lauren Conrad and Kristin Cavallari who she claimed “don’t make a damn dollar” from their hit MTV series, despite the shows’ continued popularity. She argued that reality stars should have a union or be treated fairly and valued for their contributions.
However, one source pushed back on Frankel’s statements, stating that reality show compensation works differently. They argued that reality stars use the platform to grow businesses and brands, and pointed out that Frankel herself is still profiting from a show she hasn’t been on in years through her podcast dedicated to the Housewives.
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Frankel challenged the notion that reality stars only benefit from exposure, emphasizing that reality TV has generated millions of dollars and entertained people globally. She argued that her name, likeness, and content are used for years to come for free, despite being paid significantly less than SAG-AFTRA actors who receive broadcast and streaming residuals.
Describing this relationship as exploitative, Frankel criticized the belief that talent “signing their life away” justifies exploitation. She called for reality stars to be treated fairly and for the industry to acknowledge their contributions.
The issue of unionization in reality TV is a complex one. Unlike scripted actors, reality stars are not typically covered by SAG-AFTRA or other union contracts. However, individual stars can choose to join the actors union. The lack of union representation for reality stars has often been a point of contention, with some arguing that they deserve the same protections and benefits afforded to scripted actors.
Reality TV has become a massive industry, with popular shows like The Hills, Vanderpump Rules, Jersey Shore, The Bachelor, and The Bachelorette attracting a large audience and generating significant revenue. Yet, the compensation structure and the lack of residuals for reality stars have been a source of controversy.
As networks continue to rely on reality TV to fill their schedules, the question of unionization and fair compensation for reality stars becomes increasingly relevant. The ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA double strike has brought labor issues within the entertainment industry to the forefront, and reality TV could be the next sector to face scrutiny.
In conclusion, Bethenny Frankel’s call for reality TV unionization raises important questions about fair compensation and recognition for reality stars. The lack of residuals and industry standards for reality TV raises concerns about exploitation and unequal treatment. As the entertainment industry evolves, it is crucial to address these issues and ensure that all talent, regardless of the format they work in, is treated fairly and valued for their contributions.
