Is Total Divas a Scripted Show? Exploring the Truth Behind the WWE Reality Series
Reality TV is a genre known for its scripted elements, and the WWE reality series Total Divas is no exception. Just like every other reality show, Total Divas is designed to be entertaining, not a true record of the participants' daily lives.
Scripted Reality TV
Just like any reality show, Total Divas is scripted to some degree. If it wasn't, it would lack the excitement and drama necessary to keep viewers engaged. Imagine a show where participants just spend their days gossiping and texting on their phones – it wouldn't be very entertaining, would it? Moreover, if events weren't scripted, there would be no censoring of potentially harmful actions, such as Summer's infamous punch to Natalya, which wouldn't be allowed in actual reality.
The WWE Reality Show
Seeing as WWE itself is a scripted entertainment, it only makes sense that Total Divas also has some element of scripting. The series was created to generate attention for the women wrestlers, increasing their popularity during match season. This is a marketing strategy to bring in more viewers and generate interest in their wrestling matches.
Revealing the Script
The show has entered its ninth season and remains a raucous and drama-filled world. However, questions have been raised about the authenticity of the events portrayed on the show. The following insights reveal some of the truths that may surprise you.
Inside the Tapes: Insiders Speak Up
Several members of the wrestling industry and former cast members have come forward with details of the scripted nature of Total Divas. For example, former WWE Tag Team Champion PJ Black (formerly Justin Gabriel), alleged that for a specific storyline, he was asked to film several dates with JoJo Offerman (at the time, 19 years old, compared to PJ's 30), who was not his actual girlfriend. After trying to break up with JoJo for real off-camera, PJ was instead instructed to on-camera break up with JoJo. PJ expressed frustration over the authenticity of the scenes and the behavior he was asked to portray.
Legendary Wrestler's Verdict
Legendary wrestling announcer Jim Ross, in response to a fan question on his podcast, J.R.'s Place, has been vocal about the scripted nature of Total Divas. His personal website even addresses this topic on his FAQ page, suggesting that while the show is scripted, it is more raw and real than people think.
In-Show Relationships
Another focus of scrutiny has been the relationship dynamics between characters on the reality show. Another example is the famous on-screen conflict between Natalya and fellow wrestler Tyson Kidd. Despite the on-screen drama, Jim Ross has revealed that he did not fully know the true nature of their relationship issues. This reveals a level of control and script-based manipulation behind the scenes that suggests the show is not as spontaneous as it appears.
Consuming the Show with a Grain of Salt
While it is clear that Total Divas has a significant degree of scripting, it doesn't mean that everything portrayed is entirely fake. The show is designed to be entertaining, and as such, some elements are undoubtedly scripted. However, viewers should not fully believe everything they see as untainted truth. Enjoy the drama, but keep in mind that a certain level of exaggeration and scripting is part of the production.
Conclusion
The reality is that many aspects of Total Divas are scripted to enhance drama, excitement, and entertainment. While it may not be as real as it appears, the show remains a fascinating and entertaining viewing experience. Understanding the extent of the scripting can help viewers enjoy the show more critically and appreciate its entertainment value.