The impact that talent/audience interactions have on the Reality television landscape: an analysis of Season Two of The Real Housewives of New Jersey

This thesis investigates the relationship between the television viewer andon-air characters within reality television. More specifically, this study analyzesthe communication between viewers and on-air characters via social networkingplatforms, and suggests this connection is a true catalyst for increased showratings. The formal problem statement is the following: Is there a directconnection between increased viewership (measured by ratings) for thetelevision program The Real Housewives of New Jersey (season 2) .and the evolutionof the talent/audience relationship via social networking sites that hascontributed to the overall successes of the program? Using both qualitative andquantitative approaches the study found an association between increased webtraffic on premiere show episodes in comparison with. Nielsen Media Research,and showed that social networking does in fact impact television ratings and theoverall user experience. Also, by viewing actual posts between the viewer andcharacters, one can understand the growing popularity of reality television starsand how this affects their personal businesses, outside the realm of their television persona. Above all, this study examines the multi-screen platformphenomena that will change the way the world watches television andcommunicates with each other.M.S., Television Management -- Drexel University, 201