WWE: The Evolution from Sports Entertainment to Reality Television

Introduction

WWE, or World Wrestling Entertainment, has long been a subject of debate when it comes to its classification. Many argue that it is a real sports show, while others insist that it is nothing more than a reality show. In this article, we explore the nuances and evolution of WWE, questioning whether it truly fits the definition of a reality show or remains a unique form of sports entertainment.

WWE as Sports Entertainment

WWE is fundamentally a scripted sports entertainment program, combining wrestling drama and performance art. Matches and storylines are pre-determined, with outcomes scripted in a manner similar to a television drama or movie. This scripted nature sets it apart from traditional reality shows, which typically showcase unscripted events and real-life interactions.

Despite the scripted elements, WWE indeed features real athletes. The athletic nature of the sport provides a stark contrast to the scripted narratives and character arcs, which are carefully crafted for entertainment value. The blend of athleticism and storytelling is a hallmark of WWE, distinguishing it from reality shows that focus on unscripted events and real-life dynamics.

The Hazards and Realities

While WWE is a highly entertaining product, the risks associated with the sport are very real. Many moves are performed with the intention of not causing serious harm, but the dynamics of the sport can sometimes result in injuries. WWE Superstars face an incredibly demanding schedule, often traveling for 300 days a year, with minimal downtime.

The American Wrestling Association (AWA), now part of WWE, pioneered a style known as Sports Entertainment. This term encapsulates the essence of WWE, blending athletic competition with scripted storytelling. The physical demands and Hazards of the sport are real, making WWE a unique blend of athletics and entertainment.

The Transition and Evolution

Starting around 2014, WWE began to evolve. Prior to this, WWE maintained a fine line between sports and entertainment, offering compelling matches and noteworthy storylines. However, the transition to the WWE Network marked a shift in the quality and impact of WWE content.

The WWE Network brought about a series of changes, including:

Watered-down dialogue Cringe-worthy main event matches Forgettable new wrestlers joining the franchise and quickly leaving A more comedic and less serious tone overall

These changes led to a questioning of WWE's true nature, with many arguing that WWE now more closely aligns with reality television. The decision to emphasize live events and behind-the-scenes content added a layer of authenticity that can be considered a hallmark of reality shows, even if WWE still maintains significant scripting.

Defining Reality Television

The definition of a reality show typically involves showcasing the actual lives of participants in a specific time and place. Whether involving celebrities or not, the focus is on providing an unscripted or minimally scripted look at real-life experiences.

Given this definition, WWE can certainly be classified as reality television. The narratives, storylines, and live events within WWE are closely crafted and often include real-life interactions among participants. While WWE may not have confessionals like other reality shows, the involvement of writers, directors, and a formula ensures that the content remains palatable for fans.

Examples of this reality television aspect include:

TV weddings Live drafts Made-for-TV relationships Countless spin-off reality shows The iconic 'Pipe Bomb' moments

These elements contribute to the overall narrative and viewing experience, blurring the lines between scripted entertainment and real-life drama.

In conclusion, WWE has evolved significantly, blurring the boundaries between sports entertainment and reality television. While it remains a unique blend of scripted narratives and real-life experiences, WWE's current form undoubtedly aligns more closely with reality television than it did in previous years.