Who is the One Person That Makes You Change the Channel?
There are several individuals and content on television that can be so harrowing or annoying that the mere sight or sound of them can prompt you to change the channel. This article explores some of these irritants and why they might make a viewer switch their television to something more appealing.
Entertainment Influencers
The Kardashian family and their entourage often top the list for viewers who are simply unable to tolerate them. The endless drama and often over-the-top behavior make it a challenge to sit through a television show, commercial, or any content where a member of this famous family appears. This is true for members of the large family, as the temptation to switch the channel is consistent across all variations of their family reunions, reality TV, and other programs.
Breaking News? Or Just Sports?
British TV viewers, in particular, might feel that the constant focus on football (soccer) across the land is a bit excessive. While the Match of the Day intro music triggers an instant shift to a different channel, the same complaints can apply to any "news" program that ends up being just as much about sports as anything else. Indeed, news channels often feature more sport content than actual news, alienating viewers who are not interested in such content.
Heartwarming But Manipulative Commercials
A number of individuals find the tear-jerking commercials and heart-wrenching stories of sick children or handicapped animals unappealing. The heavy-handed attempts to manipulate emotions, paired with sappy or even forced background music, can be off-putting. Even though these commercials might be from reputable charities, viewers often refuse to watch them based purely on their manipulative nature.
Entertainers and Celebrities
Actors and celebrities can also fall into this category. For example, Matthew McConaughey and Kristen Stewart are often cited for their roles in shaping public opinion in a way that can be off-putting to some viewers. McConaughey in particular, with his multiple high-profile roles and endorsements, can be a glaring reminder of unwanted commercial ties. While he doesn't fall into the public figure category per se, his prolific presence in media can still lead people to avoid him.
Politicians and Public Figures
Donald Trump, a polarizing figure, can also be a source of irritation. Even before his political career, the opinion he inspires is often so negative that it compels viewers to change the channel. Politicians and public figures who consistently irritate with their behavior, rhetoric, or public stances can make television a tedious experience.
Other Irritants
For those who don't live in the US or don't follow multiple TV channels, the issue of poorly executed television presentation can be handled by other means. If a host or several voices on a program are over-the-top or arguing over each other without much coherence, the temptation to change channels can be overwhelming. The chaos and poor communication skills displayed by some presenters can make the viewing experience a nightmare, prompting a switch to another channel.
In conclusion, various people and types of content can make watching television a bothersome chore. From members of the Kardashian family to raucous political figures, to heart-wrenching commercials and incompetent presenters, viewers often have their channels at the ready, eager to find something more to their liking.