Why AFL players have become reality TV’s hottest commodity
If you’ve noticed a massive jump in AFL players on your screens, you’re not alone — now a top network executive has spilled on why sports stars have unashamedly become reality TV’s secret weapon.
Fiona Byrne
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Former AFL players have kicked a goal in becoming the ‘must have’ secret weapon for Australian reality TV.
Ex-players are actively sought out by casting executives with many having proved in recent years to be as successful in jungle camps, on deserted islands, on building sites or in sexed up sunny villas as on the footy field.
AFL and AFLW players have shone on I’m A Celebrity (Barry Hall, Dane Swan, Brendan Fevola, Josh Gibson, Shane Crawford, Dermott Brereton and Billy Brownless), Dancing With The Stars (Travis Cloke), Survivor (Brian Lake, Shaun Hampson, Simon Black and Moana Hope), The Block (Darren Jolly) and Love Island (Todd Elton).
This week Channel 7 confirmed former Carlton player Daniel Gorringe is following in Ryan ‘Fitzy’ Fitzgerald’s footsteps by signing up for Big Brother.
Network 10’s Head of Entertainment, Stephen Tate, said 10 was unashamed about its desire to cast footy players as they brought character, a loyal fan base and unexpected vulnerability to reality shows.
“10 has had fantastic success casting AFL and AFLW players over the years. Our audience love the opportunity to see their heroes in a different light,” Tate said.
“We unashamedly look to include footy players of all codes because they broaden our show’s fan base.
“It’s rarely possible to cast players during their career so they come to our shows at a crossroad in their lives. Having enjoyed huge adulation and the certainty of big contracts, they often agree to do a show like Australian Survivor or I’m A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here! when they are working out what to do with the rest of their lives and who they really are without the rigour of club life. Audiences really respond to this vulnerability.”
There is however still some unchartered territory for ex-players in the reality landscape with footy yet to colonise The Bachelor/Bachelorette franchise, Married At First Sight or MasterChef.
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