Reality TV isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when I think of Morocco. But, on 2M TV, one of Morocco’s most popular stations, a new chat show called “Al Khayt Al Abyad” is slowly easing Moroccan society into the world of reality television. It has “given a modern twist to old customs and taken Morocco by storm,” said John Thorne, a journalist for the National World.
The show, hosted by Nassima el Hor, is not as harsh and brash as the reality television that we are used to seeing in America. It is unusual for Moroccans to air their problems out in public. There is no shameless behavior for the sake of ratings or cheap claims to fame. However, there are some dramatic appeals that still draw viewers, but they are very limited. Sensitive topics are sometimes avoided and are definitely not poked at. Filming has also been paused in the past to allow for a fight to cool down, instead of exploiting the heat of the moment. I found this very interesting.
“Al Khayt Al Abyad” follows a Moroccan tradition that when people observe neighbors in conflict, they intervene. Intervening into other people’s business sounds a lot like the popular themes shown on American reality television. However, this show wants viewers to take away lessons on how to forgive and apologize. There is good at the heart of the drama.
It is believe that the “glare of television cameras” adds to the content of the show. People always act differently when they know that a camera is around and therefore, someone is watching. The cameras bring about a positive change in people. Instead of acting out, people are actually, surprisingly, more likely to resolve their problems with their loved ones. That is what this reality show is all about: bringing people together and resolving conflict.
It truly is interesting to see the difference in reality television between media in Morocco and America. Despite some similarities, I believe it is the culture of the nations that create the differences.
Sources:
http://www.thenational.ae/news/world/africa/moroccan-tv-shows-reveals-details-of-family-life