When I tell people about my favorite television show, I’m tired of being received with groans, raised eyebrows and rolling eyes. I’m tired of being judged for watching “Jersey Shore.”
The show gets criticized on many fronts. Critics claim the “Jersey Shore” stars are immature, inappropriate and undeserving of their fame and fortune. These critics question how a show that celebrates a lifestyle of partying, hook-ups and drunken brawls can garner so much attention. Some people question the show’s reality, pointing out scenes that seem contrived and inauthentic.
Those detractors fail to recognize many of the show’s strengths. Snooki and Pauly D might lack sophistication, but the same can be said of most comedic forces, from Lucille Ball to Ray Ramano to Homer Simpson. Written sitcoms rely on silliness, conflict and indiscretion for laughs. “Seinfeld,” widely regarded as the greatest sitcom, was characterized as “a show about nothing.” The best reality shows are no different. “Jersey Shore” actually succeeds because of the characters’ flaws. And because the stars are unemployed, they have a lot more time to exploit these flaws.
Critics also fail to recognize the show’s superb editing. Certain two-hour reality shows (I’m talking to you, “Bachelorette” fans) drag on and stretch their content thin. “Jersey Shore,” by contrast, is well-constructed and action-packed. Episodes are fluid, transitions are seamless, the main characters deliver excellent “performances,” and cameras always seem to capture and amplify the situational comedy.
Ironically, a well-produced television drama is praised for capturing reality, while a well-produced reality show is often accused of distorting it. Reality shows that are well-constructed should be praised for their ability to create larger-than-life characters and narratives.
The reality show is still a relatively new form of entertainment compared with more traditional sitcoms, radio shows and novels. Reality TV might never be considered art, but reality television producers engage in a creative process when editing a show’s content. “Jersey Shore,” more than any other reality show, succeeds at magnifying the moment’s humor and drama. When The Situation narrates Ronnie’s dance club indiscretions, with against Sammie Sweetheart’s steadfast loyalty, it creates fascinating television. Regardless of criticism, “Jersey Shore” is the MVP of reality TV.